I’m a Shopping Expert, and These Are the Best Beauty Stocking Stuffers

Since I was a young girl, I was always most excited to unwrap the mini gifts that filled my Christmas stocking, which almost repeatedly included candy, small toys, and, best of all — beauty products. I’m nearly 30 years old now, but I still look forward to seeing what’s inside my stocking, eager to try out any new beauty finds as soon as possible.

As a shopping writer, I’m quite confident in my gift-giving abilities, and nothing brings me greater joy around the holidays than finding a perfect present suitable for everyone on my list. So many brands such as Kiehl’s, Youth to the People, and It Cosmetics have special holiday sets and travel-sized formulas that’ll fit perfectly inside stockings.

If you want to treat friends and family to new beauty products this year, these are the eight stocking stuffers for less than $45 worth grabbing. And every single one will arrive in time for Christmas if you shop them today. 

Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill Classico Mascara

If I were stranded on a deserted island and could only have one makeup product with me, it’d be a classic black mascara, specifically this formula from Giorgio Armani. One 40-year-old shopper deemed the non-flaking, waterproof formula “the best” they’ve ever used. The brush bristles are designed to supply volume and length with just one single coat, and one reviewer attests that their lashes look “fuller and longer” thanks to the formula that doesn’t “smudge or flake.” It’s also available in a mini-size that’s perfect for when you’re on the go. 

Lancôme 0.5-Ounce Hydra Zen Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer With Salicylic Acid

Now that we’re in the thick of cold weather, there’s no better time to gift some hydrating skincare like Lancôme’s Hydra Zen Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer, which is available in a 0.5-ounce, $12 travel size. The non-greasy formula combines hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, and amino acids to lock in hydration all day. One reviewer said they noticed that their pore size decreased, redness diminished, and skin was “smoother” overall since using the cream. Another reviewer praised it for absorbing quickly, and numerous people raved about its “light and refreshing” rose scent.