Going through my stocking on Christmas morning is one of the many festivities I look forward to every year. While my brother’s stocking is typically filled with candy, gadgets and gizmos (and sadly, underwear), mine is always filled with old and new favorite beauty goodies thanks to my mother and my grandmother, Mimi. This list comprises some of my favorite beauty gifts I’ve received over the years—as well as a few I’m hoping to find in my stocking this year!
Evian Facial Spray
This is one of those products you only seem to see while standing in the checkout line in Sephora. I received this as a gift, and that’s the only reason I know about. Obscurity aside, this facial spray is a mineral water mist that you just spray on your face to refresh and rehydrate your skin during a busy day. It’s really grown on me, and I found it’s great during the summer or after a long day of classes.
Buy it: Sephora, two for $14.
Travel Size Victoria’s Secret Noir Tease
I am absolutely in love with this scent, and I know I am not the only one. If you (or the recipient!) haven’t tried it, this size is perfect for testing it out before committing to purchasing the whole, larger bottle. If you have tried it and love it (or know someone who does!) this makes for the perfect travel scent.
Buy it: Victoria’s Secret, $15.
Smith’s Rosebud Salve
This is another Sephora checkout line favorite. I first discovered this stuff years ago and was amazed you can use it for anything! This little tin of balm suffices as lip balm, an ointment for irritations and rashes, or a healing salve for minor burns or dryness.
Buy it: Sephora, $6.
OPI Nail Polish
I love—I mean, love—all nail polishes, but OPI polishes are my favorite. The variety of colors is unbelievable, the brush applies smoothly, and the polish stays on. And come on, the names are so lovable and memorable. My absolute favorite red nail polish happens to be “OPI on Collins Ave.” Some other favorites include “Russian Navy,” “Bubble Bath,” and “You Don’t Know Jacques,” all of which would be a perfect surprise in someone’s stocking!
Buy it: Amazon.com, price varies.
Bröö Shampoo and Conditioner
You may have seen the myths on Pinterest about beer’s benefits for your hair. Well, after using Bröö’s Citrus Pale Ale Shampoo and Craft Beer Conditioner, I believe it. Initially a skeptic, I purchased these from Earth Fare in adorable travel sized bottles and was sold on this product after it left my hair silkier and smoother. (And I mean, beer shampoo just sounds cool.) The travel sizes are a perfect way to introduce someone else to the home-brew hair trend.
Buy it: Earth Fare Stores or PrettyStickBeauty.com, $2.99 each.
Fresh Sugar Lip Balms
These SPF 15 lip balms come in a series of shades; I personally own the original “Sugar” and the “Sugar Rose” and love both. The balms are nice and compact and incredibly moisturizing. Plus, the packaging is cute, and every collegiette would love to find some fancy lip balm at the bottom of her stocking!
Buy it: Sephora, $22.50.
Sources:
www.prettystickbeauty.com/collections/broo/products/broo-citrus-pale-ale-shampoo-travel-size