I Test Hundreds of Beauty Products a Year, and These Are My Favorites to Give as Gifts
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These 15 essentials really work and start at just $10
People / Reese Herrington
I’ve been a beauty lover for as long as I can remember. As a child, I remember getting caught rifling through my aunt’s coveted stash of lipsticks and powder blushes when she wasn’t looking; and later as a pre-teen, I vividly recall pleading with my mom to let me wear makeup in middle school when most kids were more concerned with sports and school projects.
By the time I hit high school, I declared Revlon’s Rum Raisin lipstick my signature lip color, woke up extra early just to curl my hair before class, and diligently stocked my shower with every Herbal Essences shampoo and conditioner on the market.
Fast forward, and it’s only fitting that I would grow up to be a beauty writer and on-air expert, who routinely tests and recommends the very best beauty products. Now that the holidays are here, I’ve rounded up my absolute favorite finds that I would happily give to anyone on my list this year.
From skincare and haircare to makeup and body essentials, these products are some of my ultimate beauty recommendations for anyone looking for an easy glow up this season. Best of all, these picks start at just $10.
Shopping Writer-Loved Holiday Beauty Gifts
Coco & Eve Like a Virgin Miracle Hair Elixir, $23 (orig. $29); cocoandeve.com
Gloves in a Bottle Hand Lotion, $13.73; amazon.com
Charlotte Tilbury Eyeshadow Palette, $55; charlottetilbury.com
Lilly Lashes, $25.50 with Prime (orig. $30); amazon.com
Pixi Beauty On-the-Glow Blush, $18; pixibeauty.com or target.com
Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash, $41; aesop.com or nordstrom.com
Lawless Beauty Forget the Filler Lip Plumper Gloss, $26; sephora.com
Jenni Kayne Oak Essentials Dew Body Oil, $58; jennikayne.com
Related: Year in Review: What Did PEOPLE Readers Buy in 2023?
Murad Targeted Eye Depuffer
Murad
I’ve waxed poetic about Murad’s impressive line of targeted correctors, and I stand by the fact that this Targeted Eye Depuffer is worth its weight in gold. Formulated with ginseng, lily, and caffeine to instantly awaken the eye area, this one would delight anyone who’s hoping to look a little more bright-eyed and well-rested in the New Year.
This miracle worker has a special applicator tip that visibly tightens, tones, and depuffs on contact, and I especially like the creamy beige shade that neutralizes and filters out pesky dark shadows that creep into that area, too.
Now that 2023 is coming to a close, I’m hoping for a little more peace and stillness in the weeks ahead. But, in the event that I don’t get the beauty rest I’m hoping for, it’s nice to know that this little under eye magic will do the trick.
Coco & Eve Like a Virgin Miracle Hair Elixir, $23 (Save $6)
Coco & Eve
If there’s one hair product that I’ve reached for more than anything else this year, it’s this shine-boosting elixir from Coco & Eve. Not only does this smoothing serum work wonders on my fine, straight hair, but it also happens to be 20 percent off right now. I personally love it so much that I even created my own makeshift travel-sized dose in a small empty bottle to have on hand when I’m on the go. I’m happy to report that the full-size bottle lasts for months, even with daily use.
This vegan and cruelty-free elixir never makes my hair greasy, which is a godsend since my hair tends to fall flat quite easily. I apply a dime-sized amount to my color-treated strands whenever they need extra TLC before I detangle and blow dry, and it consistently delivers impressive shine and heat protection in one. Best of all, it works well on all hair types, so it’s a great gift for all of your girlfriends this year.
Moon Juice Super Hair Supplements
Moon Juice
For the past six months, I’ve been regularly wearing gorgeous Bellami hair extensions, which is a glamorous lifestyle decision I don’t foresee changing anytime soon. But since my genetics indicate my hair will only get thinner over time, I’ve been simultaneously taking Moon Juice Super Hair supplements on the daily to counteract any potential shedding, too.
After consistently taking these potent pills for several months, I can confirm that they really work: I have unruly new baby hairs sprouting all over my head, and I’ve lost count of the number of hair stylists and friends who have asked me what my secret is to yield such killer results. Consider this my official public service announcement: Super Hair is the best hair-growth hack I’ve come across.
Related: The 10 Best Stocking Stuffers Under $10 at Amazon
The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Amazon
If you’re looking for an effective and affordable beauty buy for anyone on your list, I highly recommend The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum that’s just $10. Earlier this year, I had the honor of meeting the wildly impressive founders of the brand at a private dinner, and I’ll never forget when Mark Curry compared this best-selling product to a duvet cover. He explained that this hydrating serum puffs up your skin and makes it look its best in just a few seconds — similar to how you fluff and smooth out a blanket to make your bed look presentable.
It’s a unique analogy that’s stuck with me ever since, and now that I’m almost done with my second bottle, I couldn’t agree more. Hyaluronic acid keeps complexions looking plump and glowy, which is why it’s a smart choice for easy holiday gifting.
Manna Kadar Exfoliating Cream Body Scrub
Ulta
There’s nothing like an indulgent body scrub this time of year, and this creamy formula from Manna Kadar is a winner in my book. Not only is it just $16 for a generous-sized tub, but it’s packed with Dead Sea minerals and nourishing ingredients to reveal smoother skin right away. I love to apply it all over and work it in circular motions before rinsing off for a self-care moment when I need it most. It smells like a rejuvenating spa day, and it would make for a great under-$20 gift or a stocking stuffer.
Gloves in a Bottle Hand Lotion
Amazon
I have extremely dry hands that are prone to eczema flare-ups during the winter (or any stressful season of life), so I’m constantly on the hunt for a hand cream that won’t irritate my condition more. Gloves in a Bottle is a remarkable shielding lotion that’s ideal for anyone who washes their hands a lot or simply suffers from dry, cracked skin. It bonds to the outer layer of the skin and magically protects, moisturizes, and heals for up to 12 hours — even if you wash your hands, which is a miracle all on its own.
It’s also dermatologist-recommended and safe for the face, hands, body, and feet, which is why I gave a bottle to just about everyone in my family during a recent winter getaway and highly recommend you do the same.
Of the hundreds of products I’ve tested, these are just a handful of the best for gift-giving. Keep scrolling to shop more of my favorite products to wrap up this season.
Tula Protect + Glow Sunscreen Gel SPF 30
Tula
Charlotte Tilbury Eyeshadow Palette
Charlotte Tilbury
Lilly Lashes Carmel 3D Mink Lashes, $26 with Prime
Amazon
Pixi Beauty On-the-Glow Blush
Pixi
Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash
Aesop
The Hair Edit Detangle and Massage Brush
Ulta
Lawless Beauty Forget the Filler Lip Plumper Gloss
Sephora
Phlur Wild Balsam Scented Candle
Phlur
Jenni Kayne Oak Essentials Dew Body Oil
Oak Essentials
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