The Beauty Professor Holiday Gift Guide…Curated Suggestions Galore!

Above: The Beauty Professor Holiday Gift Guide is here!

With only four days until Hanukkah and twelve before Christmas, I am beyond thrilled to present my Holiday Gift Guide!  With curated gift suggestions in every category known to man, this image-laden post is sure to offer you a host of inspiration for the skincare and beauty lovers in your life…oh, and you just may see a product (or 10!) to add to your own wishlist.

Kindly scroll on for images, descriptions and links galore as well as the Bottom Line…
CATEGORY 1: The Burgeoning Beauty Connoisseur…this lovely teen adores all things beauty, but as we all know, moderation is key for their developing tastes! 
Above: Gift ideas worthy of a teenage dream.
  • Amazon Burning by Victoria Griffith: This young adult mystery novel has it all…a mystery inspired plot line, an exotic locale, a riveting journalism angle and, dare I say, a bit of tasteful romance. 
  • Hair Ties by MaddyLoo: Glittery and gorgeous, these hair-friendly elastics come in their own clear ornament for festive fun.
  • Formula X Nail Polish in Standout: Perhaps the most perfect nude, this baby pink beige makes nails look clean, groomed and polished.
  • Napoleon Perdis Megamix Lip Gloss Collection: With 10 glosses–from the sheerest beige to the richest red–nestled in their very own LE zipper pouch, this collection is sure to enchant. 
  • Lavanila Fragrance Rollerballs in Vanilla Lavender and Vanilla Blackberry: Soft, subtle scent with a base of vanilla and portable packaging make these a sophisticated choice for a first foray into fragrance.
  • Bath and Body Works A Thousand Wishes Crystal Confetti Spray: Fresh, fruity, musky and shimmery, this glowing body spray offers just the right gleam for the holiday celebrations ahead.
  • Pixi Beauty Ultimate Beauty Kit 2nd Edition: With an impressive 52 shades of finely milled eyeshadow and cheek color in age-appropriate, wearable shades, this tri-fold palette yields endless look options.
  • NudeStix Lip and Cheek Pencil in Whisper: Created by two teenage girls who embrace minimalist beauty, the NudeStix line has a wonderful range for beauty beginners.  The soft, nude pink flush of Whisper is excellent for lips and cheeks alike!
  • TopShop Lips Lipstick in Whimsical (reviewed HERE): A light, creamy coral lipstick with just the right amount of pigmentation, Whimsical adds a touch of glamour without being over the top.
  • Dauphines of New York Headband: Like jewelry for the hair, this iridescent rhinestone and chain headband has an adjustable elastic back for a seamless fit, fit for a princess.
Above: The beauty that is the Napoleon Perdis Megamix Lipgloss Collection.
Above: A spectrum of shades for all coloring and tastes.
Above: Swatches of all 10 shades in direct sunlight.
Above: A closeup of the delicious Lavanila fragrances.
Above: MaddyLoo glitter hair ties are stylish AND useful.
Above: With sweet, fruity fragrance and gorgeous, shimmering finish, this is sure to bring holiday cheer to every moment.
Above: The impressive PIXI by Petra kit…endless options in a streamlined tri-fold.
Above: Dauphines of New York crystal headband…it’s like jewelry for the hair.

CATEGORY 2: Options for the hair enthusiast…for healthy, flowing locks that are strong and manageable, here are a range of options at every price point.

Above: Haircare options.
  • Oribe Gold Lust Shampoo and Conditioner (reviewed HERE): Marvelous for all hairtypes, this ultra-nourishing formula makes locks smooth and silky in a single washing. 
  • EVO Day of Grace Leave-in-Conditioner: For times when in-shower conditioning is not an option, this lush spray-in version is divine.  Brushed into wet hair, and tangled locks become a thing of the past.
  • Suave Natural Infusion Moisturizing Light Oil Spray (reviewed HERE): I love this gleaming formula for shiny hair in a single spritz…the light oil doesn’t weigh hair down and it smells magnificent.
  • Tangle Teezer Compact and Aqua Splash versions (reviewed HERE): With its ability to painlessly rid even the most snarled hair of tangles, these plastic brushes are genius.  The compact is great for everyday use and the Aqua version makes brushing in (or just out of) the shower a breeze. 
  • Alterna Caviar CC Cream 10-in-1 Complete Correction (reviewed HERE): This leave-in mask conditions hair on contact, making it appear fuller, fluffier and more youthful in a single pump.  This goes with me on every. single. trip.
  • Christophe Robin Nourishing Balm: This 99% natural balm (from France) eliminates frizz, dryness and split end but also is pure enough to be used on parched lips, hands, cuticles and feet…magnifique!
Above: Christophe Robin Nourishing Balm…so utilitarian.

CATEGORY 3: Skincare for all skin types…tried and true, here is an array of my favorite skincare for the year.   Potent ingredients and a friendliness to sensitive skin make these choices unadulterated standouts for me.

Above: Skincare for every skin type.
  • Radical Skincare Instant Revitalizing Mask (reviewed HERE): This oxygen-infused formula is a sensory experience for the skin, erstwhile leaving it extra smooth and glowing.
  • Tatcha Ritual Discovery Set: An excellent trial set for the full Tatcha experience, this lovely box contains some of this exquisite line’s best sellers.
  • LiftLab Lift + Perfect: Fast becoming a multi-tasking favorite, this one step serum contains powerful ingredients to fight signs of aging and crate ultra clear skin.  Loving this.
  • SK-II Facial Treatment Essence (reviewed HERE and HERE): A classic formula that increases skin clarity with regular use, don’t let its light, watery texture fool you.  There is a reason this has been a best seller in the line for over 30 years.
  • RoC Deep Wrinkle Night Cream (reviewed HERE):  A potent concentration of retinol makes this night cream a very reasonable procurement.
  • La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Lift Cream (reviewed HERE):  My favorite eye cream to date, the tinest dab moisturizes, lifts, tightens and brightens the delicate eye area.  For even more La Prairie indulgence, I recommend the Classic Caviar set for a full face experience.
  • Nude Skincare Detox Fizzy Powder Wash (reviewed HERE):  I adore this soft, fragrant, foaming scrub for its ability to smooth skin in seconds. 
  • Omorovicza Blue Diamond Resurfacing Peel (reviewed HERE): This may be a luxe splurge, but its immediate benefits to the skin cannot be disputed; the plush formula works to gently increase cell turn over for an uprecedented glow in 20 minutes…perennially in my arsenal.
  • La Prairie Ice Crystal Oil (reviewed HERE): Rare ingredients make this nourishing dry oil a welcome addition to any skincare routine.
  • Natural Bisse Diamond White Instant Makeup Remover: Especially powerful for lips and eyes, this lush cleanser wipes of the most stalwart makeup in a single step.
  • Koh Gen Do Spa Water Cleansing Cloths (reviewed HERE):  I adore the Spa Water formula (have used it for 3 years nonstop) and these cloths make it endlessly portable.  Always in my bga.
  • Le Metier de Beaute Peau Vierge (reviewed HERE): Another non-negotiable in my routine, I have written about this dozens of times…an anti-aging moisturizer, primer, SPF, illuminator and tint in one tube, both my mom and I never go a day without it. 
  • Sisley Black Rose Oil (reviewed HERE): Infused with an intoxicating rose scent, this light oil hydrates upon contact…truly decadent.
  • Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream (reviewed HERE):  This cream has a cult following and a single experience with the plush, radiant formula will have you knowing why its release earlier this year was hotly anticipated.
  • By Terry Densiliss Primer (reviewed HERE):  For skin that looks like porcelain, this luxe primer is a must…my mom and I use it daily.
Above: Skin saviors for specific skin issues.

CATEGORY 4: Skin soothing saviors…specialized skin care to suit a spectrum of needs.

  • Belli All Day Moisture Body Lotion: Uber gentle ingredients make this hydrating formula suitable for even the most sensitive of skin.
  • Kate Somerville Eczema Therapy Cream (reviewed HERE):  I have already finished my first tube of this unscented wonder…so good for skin that needs a wash of moisture.
  • Hydraluron (reviewed HERE): Infused with the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid on the market, this cushiony salve can be used on the face and lips for instant hydration.
  • Colleen Rothschild Sheer Renewal Cream: For a glowing visage in moments, this light refining lotion encourages gentle cell turnover for results that are more than skin deep.
  • Biotin Bursts: They may taste like candy, but the impressive amount of biotin infused into each chew will have your hair, skin and nails thanking you for indulging.
Above: Favorite foundations for the foundation-phile…is that YOU?

CATEGORY 5: Foundations for the foundation-phile in all of us…there is no shortage of foundation reviews on Beauty Professor and, whenever possible, a full range of swatches are posted to help readers find their ideal match.  Here are some of the best formulas in my massive rotation…

Above: Gadgets to effectively streamline your beauty routine.

CATEGORY 6: Beauty Gadgetry…science meets innovation…some of the most clever and progressive releases for tech and design buffs.

  • Personal Microderm (discussed HERE): Sanding disks, gentle enough for personal use bring this classic spa treatment to the comfort of your own home.
  • Mirenesse Pebble Sonic (reviewed HERE): A permanent fixture in my shower, the silicon tips vibrate to remove every trace of dirt and makeup without stripping the skin.  
  • Beauty Blender Micro Mini: Diminutive egg-shaped sponges for the tiny contours of the face…absolutely perfect for concealer.
  • Surratt Beauty Relevee Eyelash Curler (reviewed HERE): The perfect marriage of form and function, this dramatically curls lashes with minimal pressure. 
  • NuFace Mini (reviewed HERE): Micro currents stimulate skin to increase collagen production and lift and tighten the contours of the face…an at-home spa treatment with serious results. 
  • Cenoire Eluo Toothbrush: Cheerful design + travel packaging make this electronic toothbrush a welcome addition to any routine.
Above: I cannot get over how adorable this mini Beauty Blender is.
Above: Skincare and electronics for the guy in your life.
CATEGORY 7: Men need presents, too…here’s a skincare and electronics that the manliest, most product resistant male will warm to.  Since I don’t use them, I am hesitant to give a description…hopefully the fact that all of these products are currently in my husband’s possession is testament of their efficacy!
Above: Three fragrances for those with eclectic taste.

CATEGORY 8: Fragrance for those with eclectic taste…sometime a unique scent makes all the difference.

  • Byredo Gypsy Water (reviewed HERE): Fresh, light and sweet, this classic has a hard-to-place quality that delivers levity and wanderlust on the spot.
  • Ramon Monegal Cuirelle (reviewed HERE): This leather-inspired scent is dark, mysterious and sophisticated…perfect for the cooler months.
  • Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille (reviewed HERE): I just finished my bottle of this intoxicating elixir…the vanilla tempers the deeper tobacco elements, making this suitable for daily wear.
Above: Lip color options galore.

CATEGORY 9: Lavish a loved one with lip color…die hard makeup devotees will never turn down another bullet of lipstick.

Above: Applying By Terry Velvet Rouge Lady Bare,  a quintessential nude shade.
Above: The Lipstick Queen Red Carpet Collection…proves there is a red for every occasion.
Above: Swatches of the Lipstick Queen Red Carpet Collection.

CATEGORY 10: Luxe cosmetics options for the beauty lover who already seems to have everything…I cannot imagine my makeup collection without these luminaries.

Above: Chantecaille Luxe Eye Duos swatched in direct sunlight.
Above: Napoleon Perdis Greatest Hits Blush Palette, swatched in direct sunlight.
Above: Highlighters and powders and brushes…oh my.
CATEGORY 11: Highlighters, powders and brushes for the most seamless finish ever…I adore these finely-milled beauties for an even and radiant complexion.
Above: Sumptuous final touches.
CATEGORY 12: Stocking Stuffers…bits and bobs that make gift giving exeptional. 
  • Geluxury Slippers…lined with a botanical-enriched gel, these chic slippers smooth and nourish dry, cracked heels with 20 minutes of wear.  A briliant idea!
  • Mia Bling String…this whisper fine, super luminous tinsel fastens to tiny barettes for invisible attachment and a sparkling gleam that is festive for all ages.  A perfect addition to any new year’s celebration, too. 
  • Mia Tony Pony Metal Hair Ring…this golden accessory has both an elastic band and metal outer ring for a secure, minimalist ponytail.  
  • Le Metier de Beaute Kaleidoscope in Cheeky Chic…with four layers of cheek enhancing shades, this beauty gem is all sorts of pretty.  I love using the nude shade for gentle sculpting, the pink or peach shade on the apples of my cheeks for a tender flush and the highlighting shade on the high points of my face.  Full review soon! 
  • Jouer French Kiss Lip Gloss Trio…three shades of delicate nude and pink lip gloss, nestled in a golden pouch makes for a tres chic suprise. 

Above: The gel lining is incredibly smooth and cushiony feeling…a welcome respite for the feet. 
Above: Geluxury slippers to the rescue! 
Above: Le Metier de Beaute in Cheeky Chic features a soft nude powder, a pale pink blush, a tender peach hue and a golden beige highligting shade for quintessentially pretty cheeks. 
Above: The Jouer Cosmetics French Kiss Lip Trio…delicately gorgeous, no?

Bottom Line: I hope this gift guide serves as inspiration for thoughtful, personalized, last minute presents for both others and, dare I say it, yourself ; )

I am looking forward to continuing to respond to your lovely emails and comments in the coming days…my work schedule, thankfully, is slated to slow down a touch, even in this busy season.

Have a beautiful weekend…xx,

–The Beauty Professor

** Some PR samples
provided for review (the rest purchased by me),  however, as always,
all of my opinions are expressly and unequivocally my own.  
© 2012-14 Beautyprofessor® All Rights
Reserved. Do not copy, reprint or republish content and/or photos
without author’s written permission.

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Comments (19)

  • wefadetogray Reply

    Everything is perfectly curated according to your sophistication. I am inspired.

    December 14, 2014 at 2:38 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Thank you for the very kind words!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 15, 2014 at 1:57 am
  • Unknown Reply

    Great guide! Very comprehensive and useful. Also LOVE that you mention Hanukkah! Happy holidays 🙂

    December 14, 2014 at 5:32 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Thank you, Sonia! Both Hanukkah and Christmas MUST be mentioned ; )

      xoxo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 15, 2014 at 1:57 am
  • Anonymous Reply

    You have really outdone yourself. Thank you for taking the time to curate this scrumptious list. I truly enjoy the selection of cosmetics and skincare reviews you post throughout the year. This just tops them all! Thank you for educating & sharing. You are genuinely appreciated. ❤ HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU AND YOURS… ��

    December 14, 2014 at 8:02 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello Anon,

      Wow…I so appreciate it! It was definitely a labor of love (and 3 days work!) but I am glad that you like it!

      Thank you for taking time out of your day to let me know your sentiments…xoxo to you,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 15, 2014 at 1:59 am
  • Unknown Reply

    Dear Beauty Professor: Thank you for this amazing list! I am a new fan of your blog. My credit cards will be on fire. Could you please provide recommendations for mature women in the future as well in your posts from time to time? Happy Holidays to you and yours!
    Kim

    December 14, 2014 at 1:58 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hi Kimberly,

      Thank you! I am so glad you found your way here. I appreciate the category recommendation and will definitely bear that in mind for future posts.

      xoxo and keep in touch,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 15, 2014 at 2:00 am
  • Rose Reply

    Wonderful thorough guide to all gifts, especially those for teens! I love it when you mention what products your mom uses on her skin because I am 48 and most likely close to her age:-))) 11 more days until Christmas!!! ️Hugs, Rosina

    December 14, 2014 at 3:40 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello Rosina!

      Thank you so much! I am glad you liked the teen category and will continue to mention what my mom loves using as well ; )

      Christmas is indeed almost here!! xoxo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 15, 2014 at 2:01 am
  • Clever Girl Reviews Reply

    I really like those little slippers! How fun!

    December 14, 2014 at 9:21 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Thank you, Clever Girl…and they make a world of difference on dry feet (like mine!).

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 15, 2014 at 2:02 am
  • Sunnykm Reply

    Rachel, fabulous list for gift giving!

    I think it's time for a Professor Emeritus position for your lovely mom! Those of us who are mature would appreciate her experiences with the beautiful products you feature 🙂

    December 14, 2014 at 11:05 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      Hello!

      Thank you for the sweet feedback!

      I agree…I have been urging my mom to get more involved with my blog for awhile now…perhaps your comment will be the encouragement she needs ; )

      xoxo,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 15, 2014 at 2:03 am
  • Milka Reply

    Thanks. You are beautiful!

    December 15, 2014 at 12:20 pm
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      My pleasure and thanks so much, Milka!

      xx,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 22, 2014 at 8:52 pm
  • Scent Hive Reply

    This is a fabulous gift guide! You can really tell the amount of time and care you put into it 🙂

    I think I am ready to gift myself the Le Metier de Beaute Peau Vierge! I am NC30, would you recommend shade 2 or 3?

    Thanks!
    Trish

    December 17, 2014 at 5:39 pm
    • Scent Hive Reply

      Well, I did a little research and shade 2 seems to be the best, so I took the plunge! Will let you know how it goes. 🙂

      December 18, 2014 at 7:34 am
    • The Beauty Professor Reply

      That is so kind of you to say, Scent Hive…thank you!!

      You could go with either #2 or #3 but overall, I would recommend the Peau Vierge in #2…it works best for NC 20-NC 30 skin and I would say that #3 works best for NC 30-NC40 skin.

      Hope that helps…the formula is INCREDIBLE!

      Merry Christmas,

      –The Beauty Professor

      December 22, 2014 at 8:53 pm

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