16 Ways to Shop Like a Beauty Editor This Holiday

Giving a gorgeous beauty gift that does all the things a gift should — surprise, delight, and illuminate new possibilities — is tough enough. There are skin goals to consider, flattering shades to pick, scent and experiential aspects to weigh. But when the recipient of that beauty gift is a legit beauty lover, the stakes intensify to an incalculable degree. In these cases, everyday Fenty or Glossier won't do, no matter how killer its Killawatt Highlighter or adored its Boy Brow is. Instead, peak giving only happens when unearthing something so new that's not talked about on Reddit or can't be found at Sephora (yet).

Exactly how do you source something too cool for TikTok? For that, we're here to help. Ahead, we share the insider beauty brands that will satisfy the most discerning of beauty fans — including a new-to-the-US vegan nail polish that wears like a gel and is a celebrity favorite across the pond; the rare lipstick so hard to make, it's only sold in limited quantity drops; and the dermatologist-formulated skin care that Angelina Jolie has quietly relied on for years. Read on for our top gift-giving picks and cushion that shopping budget if you can: chances are, you'll want to nab a few things for yourself, too!

Image via @lisaeldridgemakeup