I Test Hundreds of Beauty Products a Year, and These Are My Favorites to Give as Gifts

I have been a lover of beauty since I can remember. As a child, I remember being caught rummaging through my aunt’s coveted stash of lipsticks and powder blushes when she wasn’t looking; and later as a pre-teen, I vividly remember begging my mom to let me wear makeup in high school when most kids were more concerned with sports and school projects.

By the time I started high school, I had declared Revlon’s Rum Raisin lipstick my signature lip color, was waking up extra early just to curl my hair before class, and was diligently stocking my shower with every Herbal Essences shampoo and conditioner on the market.

Fast forward, and it’s only fitting that I grow up to be a beauty writer and on-air expert, routinely testing and recommending the best beauty products. Now that the holidays are here, I’ve rounded up my absolute favorite finds that I’d love to give to anyone on my list this year.

From skin and hair care to makeup and body goods, these products are some of my top beauty recommendations for anyone looking for an easy glow this season. Best of all, these picks start at just $10.

Shopping Beauty gifts that writers love

• Murad Targeted Eye Depuffer, $64; murad.com
• Coco & Eve Like a Virgin Miracle Hair Elixir, $23 (orig. $29); cocoandeve.com
• Moon Juice Super Hair Accessories, $60; moonjuice.com
• Serum with hyaluronic acid The Inkey List, HRK 9.99; amazon.com
• Manna Kadar creamy body scrub, HRK 16; ulta.com
• Gloves in a Bottle hand lotion, HRK 13.73; amazon.com
• Tula Protect + Glow sunscreen gel SPF 30, HRK 38; tula.com
• Charlotte Tilbury eyeshadow palette, HRK 55; charlottetilbury.com
• Lilly Lashes, $25.50 with Prime (orig. $30); amazon.com
• Pixi Beauty On-the-Glow blush, HRK 18; pixibeauty.com or target.com
• Aesop Resurrection Aromatique hand wash, HRK 41; aesop.com or nordstrom.com
• Hair Edit Comb and Massage Brush, $13.99; ulta.com
• Lawless Beauty Forget the Filler Lip Plumper Gloss, $26; sephora.com
• Phlur Wild Balsam scented candle, HRK 45; phlur.com
• Jenni Kayne Oak Essentials Dew body oil, HRK 58; jennikayne.com

Year in Review: What did PEOPLE readers buy in 2023?

Murad targeted debuffer for eyes

Murad

Buy Now $64

I’ve waxed poetic about Murad’s impressive line of targeted concealers, 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 refresh the eye area, this one will delight anyone hoping to look a little brighter-eyed and rested in the New Year.

This miracle worker has a special applicator tip that visibly tightens, tones and plumps on contact, and I especially like the creamy beige shade that neutralizes and filters the annoying dark shadows that creep into that area as well.

Now that 2023 is coming to an end, I’m hoping for a little more peace and quiet in the weeks ahead. But, in case I don’t get the beauty I’m hoping for, it’s nice to know that this little under-eye magic will do its job.

Coco & Eve Like a Virgin Miracle Hair Elixir, $23 (Save $6)

Coco & Eve

Buy Now $29 $25

If there’s one hair product I’ve been reaching for more than anything else this year, it’s this shine-enhancing elixir from Coco & Eve. Not only does this smoothing serum work wonders on my fine, straight hair, but it’s also currently 20 percent off. I personally love it so much that I’ve even made my own makeshift travel dose in a small empty bottle that I keep handy 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 because my hair falls out very easily. I apply a small amount to my colored locks whenever they need some extra TLC before brushing and blow-drying, and it consistently delivers impressive shine and heat protection in one. Best of all, it works well on all hair types, making it a great gift for all your girlfriends this year.

Moon Juice Super hair accessories

Moon juice

Buy at Moonjuice.com $60

I’ve been wearing beautiful Bellami hair extensions on a regular basis for the last six months, a glamorous life decision that I don’t foresee changing any time soon. But since my genetics indicate that my hair will only thin over time, I simultaneously took Moon Juice Super Hair supplements daily to prevent potential shedding.

After taking these powerful pills consistently for several months, I can confirm that they really do work: unruly new hairs are sprouting all over my head and I’ve lost count of hairdressers and friends who have asked me what my secret is to getting such killer results. Consider this my official public announcement: Super Hair is the best hair growth trick I’ve come across.

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Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Amazon

Buy on Amazon $10

If you’re looking for an effective and affordable beauty product for anyone on your list, I highly recommend The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid which is only $10. Earlier this year I had the honor of meeting the extremely 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 plumps up your skin and makes it look its best in just seconds—much like you wet and smooth a blanket to make your bed look decent.

It’s a unique analogy that has stuck with me ever since, and now that I’m almost done with my second bottle, I couldn’t agree more. Hyaluronic acid keeps the complexion plump and glowing, making it a smart choice for a simple holiday gift.

Manna Kadar creamy body scrub

Ulta

Buy Now $16

There’s nothing better than a body scrub this time of year, and this creamy formula from Manna Kadar is a winner in my book. Not only is it only $16 for a generous sized tub, but it’s packed with Dead Sea minerals and nutrients that instantly reveal smoother skin. I like to apply it all over and work in circular motions before rinsing for a self-care moment when I need it most. It smells like a rejuvenating day at the spa and would make a great gift under $20 or a stocking stuffer.

Gloves in a Bottle hand lotion

Amazon

Buy on Amazon $12

I have extremely dry hands that are prone to eczema breakouts during the winter (or any stressful season in life), so I’m constantly on the lookout for a hand cream that won’t irritate my condition anymore. Gloves in a Bottle is an excellent protective lotion that is ideal for anyone who washes their hands frequently or simply suffers from dry, cracked skin. It binds to the outer layer of skin and magically protects, moisturizes and heals for up to 12 hours — even if you wash your hands, which is a miracle in itself.

It’s also dermatologist recommended and safe for the face, hands, body and feet, which is why I gave a bottle to almost everyone in my family during the recent winter break and highly recommend you do the same.

Of the hundreds of products I’ve tested, these are just a few of the best for gift giving. Keep scrolling to shop more of my favorite products to finish off this season.

Tula Protect + Glow sun gel SPF 30

Tula

Buy Now $38

Charlotte Tilbury eyeshadow palette

Charlotte Tilbury

Buy at Charlottetilbury.com $55

Lilly Lashes Carmel 3D Mink Lashes, $26 from Prime

Amazon

Buy on Amazon $30 $26

Pixi Beauty On-the-Glow Blush

Pixies

Buy at Pixibeauty.com $18

Aesop Resurrection aromatic hand wash

Aesop

Buy at Aesop.com $43

Hair Edit brush for combing and massage

Ulta

Buy Now $14

Lawless beauty Forget Filler Lip Plumper Gloss

Sephora

Buy at Sephora $26

Phlur scented candle Wild Balsam

Phlur

Buy at Phlur.com $45

Jenni Kayne Oak Essentials Dew Body Oil

Oak Essentials

Buy at Jennikayne.com $58

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education