Your guide to staying healthy, happy, alive
CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN
A self-care spin on the classic Advent calendar
SEASON OF SCENTS
Fragrance gift packs for every personality
GIFTS GIFTS GIFTS
Practical presents with plenty of wow factor
Wishing everyone a healthy and happy holiday season. As 2025 comes to a close, I want to thank our customers and communities for another wonderful year of support. We also have some exciting news ahead for Alive Pharmacy in 2026, so stay tuned. From new job opportunities and continued growth to upcoming store redesigns, we’ll keep looking for ways to improve our service and care for the community.
I’d like to take a moment to congratulate Mitchell and Connor, who were recently recognised at the JCU Pharmacy Awards Evening and Welcome to the Profession. Studying pharmacy opens the door to a dynamic and rewarding career, and with the success of Full-Scope Pharmacy Practice, pharmacists now have more opportunities than ever to apply their expertise. This expanded scope allows us to assess and treat a wider range of health concerns, prescribe medications for common conditions, administer vaccinations, and provide comprehensive health advice.
One service now included in the Full Scope of Practice is travel health support. Our Prescribing Pharmacists can provide pre-travel risk assessments, vaccinations, and preventative advice for common travel-related illnesses. They can also review your regular medications and offer guidance on how to manage them safely while you are away.
This holiday season, take time to prioritise your health and wellbeing. The festive period can bring stress, irregular routines, and indulgent eating, but a little balance goes a long way. Enjoy festive treats alongside nutritious meals, stay active, rest well, and keep hydrated. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference in keeping you and your family well this Christmas.
Until next year, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
– G
Managing Director
Christmas is nearly here, and our stores are packed to the brim with gift packs and festive cheer. Advent calendars are a fun way to mark the days until Christmas, sparking excitement and giving us the perfect excuse to spoil ourselves along the way. Who says advent calendars are only for chocolate lovers? We’ve put together some thoughtful, practical gift ideas that make every day in the lead-up to Christmas a little brighter.
SMELL GOOD, FEEL FANCY
Fragrance is a classic gift that adds a little magic to the holidays because smelling amazing never goes out of style. Whether it’s something fresh and clean like Calvin Klein, floral like Marc Jacobs or sweet like Ariana Grande, there’s a scent for everyone.
Unisex fragrances are also making a big comeback this season. Our noses can detect over a trillion scents, and fragrance can lift mood and reduce stress by triggering serotonin and dopamine, our feel-good hormones.
SHINY, STRONG, HEALTHY HAIR
Holiday glam starts at the roots, and nothing says “care package” like vibrant, healthy hair. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting a loved one, haircare and colour kits. From nourishing shampoos and conditioners to bold colour treatments, put together a routine to refresh your look or experiment with something new. This season, give the gift of glossy strands, vivid shades, and a little extra confidence.
Did you know?
Alive Pharmacists can diagnose and treat uncomplicated UTIs, reflux and heartburn, travel health issues and nausea or vomiting.
GOOD SKINCARE: BECAUSE ‘I WOKE UP LIKE THIS’ IS A LIFESTYLE, NOT A MYTH
In tropical weather, our skin needs a little extra care. Humidity, heat and saltwater can all affect your complexion, so a consistent skincare routine is key. Look for a lightweight moisturiser, gentle cleanser and SPF 50+. For ageing skin, targeted serums with retinoids, peptides or antioxidants help reduce fine lines and support a healthy glow.
Some great product picks include CeraVe Moisturising Lotion, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen and MCoBeauty Glow Boost Vitamin C Serum.
POLISH UP FROM TIP TO TOE
Well-groomed nails are the ultimate holiday accessory, especially when you’re unwrapping gifts or showing off your cookie-decorating skills. A nail-care set makes a fun and practical gift that keeps fingers camera-ready and gives a good excuse for a bit of self-care time.
Fun fact: nails grow faster in summer than winter. Warmer weather increases blood circulation to nail beds, delivering more oxygen and nutrients.
GLOW UP AND SHOW UP
A pop of colour can turn any day into a celebration. Makeup gift packs are a festive favourite for all ages and skill levels, from Miki Lip Kits to MCoBeauty’s own Advent Calendar. Whether it’s a swipe of lipstick or a touch of mascara, these gifts bring out everyone’s inner holiday sparkle.
HAPPY FEET, HAPPY LIFE
Holiday shopping and long lunches can take their toll on your feet. A soothing foot cream, relaxing soak or supportive insoles can make all the difference. Insoles add cushioning and absorb shock as you walk or stand, helping prevent tired, aching feet.
It might seem like an unusual gift for someone else, but it’s the perfect way to treat yourself. Your feet will thank you later.
We hope our festive gift ideas inspire you to give presents that are practical, joyful and full of care. After all, the best gifts are the ones that make someone’s everyday a little brighter.
