Gold, frankincense, and myrrh are luxurious, seasonal and have some surprising health benefits. These three wise gifts have been used as a skincare ingredient for centuries

As the three gifts were presented to baby Jesus by the Wise Men, they are often associated with Christmas, but did you know these ancient ingredients have a host of health and beauty benefits too?

Frankincense is derived from the resin of the Boswellia Carterii tree. The aromatic liquid is also known as the ‘king of essential oils' and is said to have a calming effect when its warm, woody scent is inhaled. Pure essential oils should always be diluted with a carrier oil before being applied to pulse points, of course, or you could sit back in the tub and breathe in the fragrance of a frankincense bath oil. The aromatic oil can also have a soothing effect on your skin and is known for its anti-ageing properties, which is why it’s found in night creams and serums. Simply smooth a few drops in a base cream over your face as the last step in your evening routine.

The decadence of gold gives skin a beautiful, natural glow with a slew of health benefits to match. The exclusive ingredient reduces and slows down collagen depletion, ensuring your skin remains youthful and full. It also improves blood circulation and prevents premature ageing. Gold is also said to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help oxygen enter the skin for the renewal of cells.

And Egyptians believed the mineral has medical elements that helped cure some diseases and allergies. While products infused with gold are slightly more expensive, their transformative effects are well worth the extra splurge. Myrrh comes from Commiphora trees, grown on the Arabian Peninsula and a part of the same botanical family as frankincense. It’s a faintly woody and oily-sweet smelling essential oil that has fantastic healing properties and can be used to treat blemishes and acne. When used topically, it helps by fading unwanted pimples as well as being used to treat other skin ailments like eczema. In traditional

Chinese medicine, myrrh essential oil was also used against microbes due to its anti-viral nature and diluted it was applied to the skin as an antioxidant. Combining both the skin-boosting and aromatherapy benefits of gold, frankincense and myrrh, moisturising balms and hand creams can nourish dry patches and bring a waft of the woody fragrance to calm a frazzled mind over the festive season.

Here’s our pick of the best gold, frankincense and myrrh infused products for the festive season and beyond…