9 Products on a Pro Makeup Artist's Holiday Shopping List

LYS Beauty Mini Higher Standard 3-Piece Cream Glow Blush Stick Set ($25)

Blush meets highlighter in this chic set, which offers three two-in-one color varieties that are universally flattering and easy to blend out. I own a lot of cream blushes, but this one is by far among the nicest formulas. The glowy finish and color payoff impart a radiant, naturally flushed look.

Bubble Winter Warm-Up 3-Step Hydrating Routine ($34)

Thanks to TikTok, teens are becoming more interested in skin care. A simple three-step routine is all they need to develop pride in caring for their skin. Bubble is one of those trendy brands that leans into welcoming young beauty enthusiasts into the world of skin care, and this set includes a cleanser, face mist, and moisturizer gentle enough for daily use. I gifted this bundle to my 11-year-old goddaughters for their birthday after they mentioned seeing a girl their age using the brand on YouTube.

Yves Saint Laurent LoveShine Lip Oil ($45)

This limited-edition tube is gorgeous, and the pops of glitter added to the beloved YSL LoveShine Lip Oil make it so special. It's the perfect gift for the friend who likes to splurge on luxury beauty items and enjoys collecting limited-edition launches before they sell out. This is the type of gift that will have your friend thinking of you every time they apply it.

Sephora Favorites Skincare Must Haves ($58)

We all have that one friend obsessed with skin care — you can bet that if it's gone viral on TikTok, it's on their bathroom vanity. If this sounds like someone you're shopping for this holiday season, this Sephora Skincare Must Haves set is the perfect gift. The 10-piece exploratory kit includes some of the best-selling skin care at the beauty retailer. Secretly, I'm this friend, so trust me when I say that nothing makes me happier than mini versions of my favorite skin-care products, especially when I need to pack for a trip.

Anisa Beauty Everyday Makeup Brush Collection ($90)

A makeup brush set is always a great starter gift for someone just getting into makeup. This set from Anisa Beauty includes three essential brushes that deposit everyday makeup like a pro, plus a carrying case. I own multiples of each brush (for foundation, concealer, and powder) and am happy to report that they hold up beautifully over time. The quality and feel of these brushes will leave your loved one feeling so thankful.

OSEA Golden Glow Body Set ($90)

As we age ever so gracefully, we need to focus more on the moisture retention of our body skin. This body care set from OSEA includes a plant-based body brush, exfoliating body scrub, and their best-selling Undaria Algae Body Oil — clinically proven to improve skin's elasticity and moisture levels. It's basically a mini trip to the spa in the comfort of your own home. I gifted my mom a similar set last year, and she absolutely loved it.

Elemis The Glow Edit ($85)

Skin prep is the secret to great makeup, and having a solid cleansing routine is essential to keeping your skin in the best condition. I use this cleansing balm nearly every day; it gently removes full-coverage and waterproof makeup without stripping moisture from the skin. Someone who already owns a good bit of makeup will surely appreciate having a nice skin-care bundle that works in tandem with their favorite foundation.

Kiehl's Keeping Up With Kiehl's Holiday Vault Set ($98)

I've used every item included in this Kiehl's best-sellers set, and I love how my skin responds. The Better Screen UV Serum is one of the best sunscreens around for sensitive skin, while the Truly Targeted Acne-Clearing Solution is my go-to for a breakout. I keep the Ultra Facial Cream in my pro kit to use on clients; it's simple, hydrating, and works beautifully under makeup.

Danessa Myricks Lightwork VI Freedom Palette ($128)

Give the gift of expression with this versatile eyeshadow palette from Danessa Myricks. The Light Work VI Freedom palette includes three unique color stories to create endless looks. The larger palette can also be transformed into three smaller customizable palettes, so you can swap out the shades to your liking for easy use on the go. I'd give this to a friend who likes to play with color — and loves to tailor their makeup looks to their outfits.

Jonet Williamson (she/her) is a pro makeup artist and beauty educator with a belief that beauty should empower you and inspire others. Her work has been featured in commercial campaigns for Dolce & Gabbana, Nike, Barneys, Glow Recipe, and more. As a trusted voice in the beauty industry, Jonet's expert advice has been featured by InStyle, Allure, Refinery29, Byrdie, Women's Health, and more. Jonet is a PS Council member.