Stick This in Your Stocking

A few months back on my birthday, I said I'd planned to spend gobs of money on silly things. And spend I did! Mainly at Sephora, my all-time favorite place to shop on my bday because the friendly lady behind the counter (who looks like she's hiding a muffin in her hair) always gives me a present.

I've since made my way through all the products you see here, and there were some clear winners. With Hanukkah upon us and Christmas just days away I thought it might be good to share a few sure-fire last-minute stocking stuffers.

First, full disclosure: Each morning, my beauty regimen consists of showering, brushing my teeth, blow-drying my hair until I start to sweat, and quickly sweeping mascara, lip gloss and blush across my face.  That's it. 

Not exactly a major undertaking.  I realize this gives me zero credibility in the beauty review arena.

But I won't let that stop me.

LIPS
I'm obsessed with lip gloss.  I probably apply it 5x per day.  There are no less than 7 featured in this picture.  If you know someone who is equally interested in maintaining a shiny smile, get them this:
>> NARS Lip Gloss in Belize (for nighttime)
>> Lancome Juicy Tubes in Pure (for daytime)
>> Fresh Sugar Lip Balm (for bedtime)

Do NOT get them this: Crest White Strips. 

HAIR
I'm obsessed with smooth hair.  I never need to check the weather, all I do is look in the mirror -- humidity is the enemy to every follicle on my thick head.  The only hairs that can resist puffing up are the wiry gray ones and I pluck those out so I can maintain my youthful facade.  If you know someone who likes smooth, nice-smelling hair too, get them this:
>> Frederic Fekkai Glossing Shampoo & Conditioner
>> Moroccan Oil Hydrating Styling Cream

Do NOT get them this: a haircut

FRAGRANCE 
I'm obsessed with finding a perfume I don't hate.  You may recall my quest to find a scent.  I've finally found something I like.  No, LOVE.  It's a famous fragrance, but try to forget that and just breathe in the beachy-goodness.  If you know someone who isn't ashamed to smell like a celebrity, get them this: 
>> Jennifer Aniston (I say this with 100% non-irony.  Smell it.  Trust me.) 
 
Do NOT get them this: Snooki for Women by Nicole Polizzi
 
 
 
When you think of splurging on someone special, you might be tempted to give a gift certificate to a spa for a mani-pedi or a massage. This would be the WORST possible gift someone could get me.  The thought of being kneaded like pizza dough by a judgemental stranger gives me hives. 
 
If your loved one is as neurotic as I am (as if that is even in the realm of possibility), she might enjoy one or all of the products above.  No unwanted touching required.
 
And don't forget to treat yourself!  Whoever said it is better to give than to receive was doing it wrong. 
 
Stuff the comments below with YOUR stocking goodies...
 
 
tags: beauty, holidays, shopping