We don’t know about you, but to us it feels like stocking stuffers never quite get the attention they deserve. Often considered an afterthought, they've never really have their moment in the gifting spotlight. We think it’s time to change all of that. After all, a good stocking stuffer is an ideal opportunity to gift something that’s fun or practical, be it a beauty basic, a wellness essential, or a game-changing gadget. Not to mention that the term “stocking stuffers” is also often synonymous with smaller-ticket items, great for those people on your list for whom you want to get a little something, without breaking the bank.
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
Practical, necessary, and universally appealing, a good lip balm is pretty much the definition of the perfect stocking stuffer. And this is certainly a good one, chock-full of naturally derived butters that leave your lips, well, buttery soft and smooth. There’s a clear variety, as well as two tinted options to choose from. The (pleasing, not cloying) vanilla scent is just an added bonus.
Price at time of publish: $23
What Our Testers Say
“From the moment you smear this balm onto your lips, they become unbelievably soft and smooth. As I mentioned before, I cannot stand when a lip balm is sticky, and this one left my lips without any uncomfortable feel. Overall, the way my lips feel after using this balm is an A+ in my book.” —Melony Forcier, Product Tester
Chillhouse Have a Chill Night Restorative Face Oil
Tiny but mighty, there’s not much this bedtime oil can’t do. It boosts cell turnover and reduces signs of aging, redness, and irritation, and it helps clear congested pores. And all of that without ever feeling in the least bit greasy or, well, oily.
Price at time of publish: $48
What Our Testers Say
“When it comes to the products in my routine, I’m usually averse to products that feel greasy or slimy. These oils are neither of those things. They feel like liquid silk, and although they do leave a nice shine, they don’t leave any stickiness or residue.” —Cris Pearlstein, Product Tester
Bigger than Beauty Sunproof™ 3-in-1 Invisible Priming Sunscreen - SPF 37
There are few things in life we appreciate more than a great multi-tasking product. Exhibit A: This sunscreen-meets-primer-meets-gel moisturizer. A truly one-stop shop, it is a lifesaver on busy mornings, melting beautifully into skin and imparting hydration and sun protection. What more could you ask for?
Price at time of publish: $38
What Our Testers Say
“It gave my complexion a silky texture and made it softer to the touch, and on days I layered makeup on top of it, I found that it lasted for hours without getting patchy. I can confidently say this product could replace three products in my morning skincare routine, just as its name implied.” —Jesa Marie Calor, former Byrdie editor
Slip Small Slipsilk Scrunchies
Hair ties make for a very useful stocking stuffer, and these silk ones (from the brand best known for their amazing pillowcase) are special enough to still feel giftable. Slip Small Slipsilk Scrunchies are so good that we deemed them some of the best hair ties out there. They're extra-comfortable and gentle on the hair, and they never leaving behind a crease.
Price at time of publish: $39
Pearl River Mart We Are Happy To Serve You Anthora Coffee Cup
Coffee lovers are sure to appreciate this ceramic version of the iconic Anthora coffee cup, first created in 1963 and used all over New York City. The nostalgic design is available in both 8-ounce and 3-ounce sizes (the latter is great for espresso), and is both microwave- and dishwasher-safe.
Price at time of publish: $20
Brightland The Mini Essentials
This bundle of best-sellers is so popular it’s sold out four times, so get your hands on it while you can. It comes with two of the brand’s iconic olive oils, plus two types of vinegar, all boasting pretty packaging that makes the bottles worthy of being displayed on the counter and not in a cabinet. Give the whole thing individually, or split them up into four individual stocking stuffers.
Price at time of publish: $70
evolve together malibu hand sanitizer starter set
This brand is all about creating better, more sustainable versions of daily essentials; this hand sanitizer is proof positive. Not only is the formula great—killing 99.9% of germs via sugar-based alcohol and keeping skin hydrated with glycerin and aloe—but the packaging is super-smart. The spray container is reusable (this set comes with three refills), and has a twist-and-spray dispenser so you never have to worry about spills or leaks. The refreshing citrus fragrance is just an added bonus.
Price at time of publish: $22
Bellroy Pod Jacket Pro
Slip this leather case on your AirPods, and you’ll never have to worry about mixing them up with someone else’s. Available in sizes for both the Pro and 3rd Generation version, the leather case fits securely, has a port cutout for easy-access charging, and comes in your choice of six colors.
Price at time of publish: $39
Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray
Remember how the dad in My Big Fat Greek Wedding used Windex as skin-saving spray for any and every skin ailment? This is basically that, but it’s not a cleaning product. Instead, it relies on hypochlorous acid, a wonder kid ingredient that’s antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory, soothing all kinds of redness and irritation from acne to bug bites to weird rashes. Our go-to move: Spraying it before and after wearing a mask to ward off maskne.
Price at time of publish: $38
Kim for the Win Brilliant or BS Trivia Party Game for Know-It-Alls and Big Fat Liars
Mix up game night with this fun take on a standard trivia game that’s guaranteed to have people laughing. Great for up to six players, it’s also something the whole family can enjoy together.
Price at time of publish: $16
Apple AirTag 4 Pack
For anyone who can never remember where they put their keys/wallet/purse/remote control (you get the picture), this is truly an ingenious solution. Stick one on, and you can easily track and find all of your stuff. (They can even be attached to dog tags to help you keep tabs on your furry BFF.) Make it feel like an extra-special gift by adding custom engraving.
Price at time of publish: $99
MamaP Reform Bamboo Toothbrushes
Another good option in the ‘totally practical’ category, this first-of-its kind aluminum toothbrush has replaceable bamboo brush heads that can twist on and off. You can even break off the nylon bristles and compost the rest of the head, dramatically reducing plastic waste.
Price at time of publish: $27
Nailtopia Nail Lacquer in Doing Great, Sweetie
In case you missed it, Hailey Bieber’s ‘glazed donut’ nails are all the rage on TikTok and Instagram. Score the same shimmery, holographic vibe with this polish, a pearlescent white that looks great on its own or layered over a more opaque shade. Also noteworthy: The formula is 85% plant-based and infused with a laundry list of good-for-your nails ingredients.
Price at time of publish: $10
No Days Wasted DHM Detox Recovery Blend
Hangover cures are a dime a dozen, and we’re not ashamed to admit that we’ve tried many of the ones out there. But in our experience, none works better than this supplement, a blend of antioxidants and vitamins that help support liver function and break down the toxins found in alcohol. Take one of the (very convenient, portable) packs while you’re drinking, and prepare to be amazed by how good you feel the next day, seriously.
Price at time of publish: $30
Jenny Patinkin Blotter Baby Mattifying Roller
Use this handy-dandy tool once, and we guarantee you’ll never want to go back to traditional blotting papers ever again. Just gently roll it over any areas where you want to tamp down excess sheen; the limestone clay instantly absorbs unwanted oil but won’t lift off or mess up your makeup.
Price at time of publish: $22
Odin Leather Goods Bookmark
Any bookworm will get a kick out of these witty bookmarks, laser-engraved with one of five quippy sayings. (Our personal favorite: “You Fell Asleep Here.”) All are made of high-quality natural leather and ring in at less than $15.
Price at time of publish: $15
RéVive Masque Des Yeux Instant De-Puffing Gel Eye Mask
Whether it’s after a late night, on an early morning, or for the dreaded occasion when the two fall back-to-back, an eye mask is an invaluable way to de-puff and refresh eyes, stat. This particular hydrogel option does all of that, while also helping to plump skin and smooth out fine lines. Best of all, it stays on without slipping, unlike many of its other counterparts.
Price at time of publish: $28
Sipify Reusable Straw
Dentists will tell you to drink coffee and tea out of a straw in order to avoid staining your teeth. The only problem? Drinking hot bevies out of a straw is basically a recipe for burning your mouth. That’s why this reusable straw is so smart; it’s specially designed to be used with hot drinks, cooling them off as you sip. It works with 95% of travel mugs, is easy to clean, and comes in a two-pack of two different sizes.
Price at time of publish: $24
Brown Girl Jane Balance Wellness Drops
Either dropped right under your tongue or mixed into your fave food or drink, this CBD-infused tincture helps reduce stress and anxiety. Credit a mixture of cannabinoids, including not only CBD but also CBG, CBC, and CBN, all from USA-grown and third-party-tested hemp. Bonus points for the (natural) orange flavor.
Price at time of publish: $68
Conscious Coconut Biodegradable Coconut Oil Wipes
Coconut oil can be a skin-saver when it comes to combating dryness and irritation, but it can be a pain to use, particularly when you have to dig it out of a jar. That’s why we appreciate that these coconut oil wipes are so easy and convenient. Not to mention that they utilize 100% organic, fair trade-certified, virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil, and the wipes themselves are biodegradable.
Price at time of publish: $6
The Radiant Rhino Lavender Shower Steamers
Make your bedtime shower routine feel all the more luxurious and spa-like with these lavender-infused shower steamers. Just let one sit in the corner; the steam from the shower releases the natural lavender essential oil for aromatherapeutic benefits that will help you chill out and unwind. (And all that without leaving a mess.)
Price at time of publish: $20
Spitfire Girl Protection Eye Blue Stone Ring
A nod to the classic evil eye, this gold-plated and sterling silver ring features a blue “eye” made of zircon stone. It looks great on all fingers, though we especially like it as an unexpected pinky ring.
Price at time of publish: $48
Kaia Naturals The Sweat Powder
Deodorant as a stocking stuffer? Sure, when it’s this unique version that comes with a convenient, brilliantly designed, brush-on dispenser that’s perfect for stopping unwanted moisture and odor in its tracks. Talc-, baking soda-, and aluminum-free, it’s also super-gentle and non-irritating, and it comes in two scent variants.
Price at time of publish: $35
Renew Life Everyday Immune Gummy
Who doesn’t want a little extra immunity boost these days? These gummies combine both prebiotics and probiotics (specifically, strains proven to help aid immunity and gut health), alongside vitamin C and zinc. And they taste delicious, a vitamin you’ll actually want to take.
Price at time of publish: $16
Worthwhile Paper Dream Waves Journal
You know that friend who’s always telling you about the crazy dream they had? This is the perfect gift for them. The seventy-five pages of the handbound journal are filled with prompts meant to help you recollect and better understand your dreams, including space for both written and visual reflections.
Price at time of publish: $32
Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil
Ideal for all skin types ranging from dry to oily, this cult-classic cleansing oil boasts a silky texture that leaves your complexion beautifully hydrated. But it still packs a serious punch, dissolving even the most stubborn of waterproof makeup. This travel size is ideal to pop into a stocking.
Price at time of publish: $40
The NOW Massage Gift Card
This nationwide massage boutique (there are currently 36 locations nationwide and more to come) is unlike any other, focusing on all kinds of customizable enhancements. Pick up a gift card, and let the recipient choose from a 25- to 80-minute massage, and select from add-ons such as gua sha or herbal heat therapy.
Price at time of publish: $50-$400
BaubleBar Stella Anklet
FYI, anklets are back—in a big way. This one combines a classic gold chain with multicolored beads for a fun pop, and the affordable price (less than $40!) can’t be beat.
Price at time of publish: $38
Mustela Multi-Purpose Balm
One of our current favorite multitaskers, this balm repairs, protects, and soothes dry, irritated skin, an essential to keep on hand to alleviate chapped lips, ragged cuticles, curling iron burns, you name it. It does so with three different avocado extracts. (Fun fact, the green color is naturally derived from said avocado.)
Price at time of publish: $17
Parade Days of the Week Pack
Socks and underwear are unfairly maligned as, at best, last minute gifts. But this pack is cute and vintage-inspired, featuring seven pairs of undies in Parade’s mega-soft New:Cotton fabric. It puts a fun spin on an everyday essential they can almost certainly use.
Price at time of publish: $78
Sonia Kashuk Essential Flat-Top Foundation Brush
Chances are your favorite makeup lover will welcome the opportunity to put off washing their brushes just one more day. This flat-top kabuki brush provides seamless full-coverage application—and at a fraction of the price of brushes of similar quality.
Price at time of publish: $10
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera
Warning: If you can, find out if your loved one already has this popular pocket-sized camera. There’s a decent chance they do; but if they don’t, there’s an even better chance they’ve always wanted one. The tiny, lightweight camera is perfect for capturing truly phone-free memories.
Price at time of publish: $77
Bread Beauty Supply Mini Everyday Hair Gloss Oil
Those with curly or coily hair in particular will appreciate this pocket-sized version of Bread Beauty Supply’s much-beloved Hair-Oil. Not only will the mix of kakadu plum and safflower oils help add a dose of shine—it’ll also leave their strands smelling absolutely delicious.
Price at time of publish: $14
TWEEZERMAN ProMaster Eyelash Curler
A big hit with Byrdie’s testing lab, this lash curler garners rave reviews for its ease of use and dramatic results. Plus, its suitable for a variety of eye shapes, including deep-set, almond, and hooded. Pair it with a mini-mascara and give the gift of breathtaking lashes.
Price at time of publish: $32
Happy Socks Dressed Mix Sock
For the person that’s back and office—and back in their business attire—a fun pair of socks is a great way to liven up their daily grind. Happy Socks is the go-to source for socks that pack a whimsical punch; we like how this pair features a sophisticated design but in a fun, neon colorway.
Price at time of publish: $23
Humans Before Handles Aurora Earrings
Two of the year’s biggest trends are dangling, drop earrings and Regencycore. Give the trendiest person on your list a little bit of both with this layered crystal and faux pearl set, which put an unexpected twist on the classic chandelier earring.
Price at time of publish: $45
Clever Idiots Inc My Neighbor Totoro Utensil Set
Packed lunch can feel a little joyless. So add a much needed dose of whimsy to their meal with a utensil set inspired by a film beloved by children and adults alike.
Price at time of publish: $20
Patchology Best in Snow Hand & Foot Moisturizing Kit
It might be the most wonderful time of the year for the spirit, but for the skin… not so much. This festive set helps revitalize winterized hands and feet via a self-warming hand and cuticle treatment and a foot mask that conditions and softens.
Price at time of publish: $18
MoMA Design Store Geo Stacking Coasters
For the friend that got really into furniture this year, opt for a set of coasters to help protect the integrity of their favorite antique find. The modernist, geometric designs in this set would look right at home on a mid-century coffee table.
Price at time of publish: $30
Dash Snowflake Mini Waffle Maker
We love a gift you can immediately get use out of. Have your recipient open this one up first—then they can wintry, enjoy bite-sized waffles while opening up the rest of their presents.
Price at time of publish: $13
Urban Outfitters Atlas Ring Set
What’s #manimonday without the appropriate jewelry? This set, available in gold and silver, features five celestial-themed rings. They’ll look fantastic stacked on top of each other, or paired with fun, chunkier pieces.
Price at time of publish: $20
SoapRocks SoapRocks
Given how stunning SoapRocks look, your gift recipient might just want to keep theirs on display. If they do decide to use it, however, they’ll certainly be pleased: With ingredients including aloe, chamomile, and lavender, these sudsing stones get the job done when it comes to washing up, too. (And they smell excellent while doing so.)
Price at time of publish: $20
Pura Smart Home Fragrance Diffuser
Pura’s Fragrance Diffuser truly takes the technology to the next level. Through the accompanying ap users can control the device from their phone, allowing them to adjust the intensity or swap between fragrances. Plus, it’s Alexa-compatible—perfect for the scent-lover who runs everything through their virtual assistant.
Price at time of publish: $89
Beauty Done Right Unicorn Ice Dice
Gift them a little self-care moment with this four-piece set of colorful cubes. Pop them in the freezer for ten minutes to reduce puffiness, soothe inflammation, or boost glowiness; submerge them into warm water for 30 seconds to up blood flow and ease tension in the facial muscles. They’re like a pocket-sized spa day.
Price at time of publish: $64
Tayshia by Scunci Mini Butterfly No-Slip Claw Clips
Y2K style is having a major moment, so the trend-lover in your life will likely appreciate accessories that can help them get the look. This four-piece set of butterfly clips has major Lizzie McGuire energy.
Price at time of publish: $5
BeautyBio Lights Out Mask On Set
The only thing better for your eyes than soothing eye gels is a good night’s sleep. This set offers both, with colloidal silver-infused eye gels designed to de-puff and revitalize the under-eye area, and a silky sleep mask to lock in all the skincare goodness.
Price at time of publish: $25
Paula’s Choice Do More For Your Pores Kit
Paula’s Choice’s Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant went viral on TikTok this year, and for good reason: This is one internet-breaker that lives up to the hype. “After a full week of use, I could feel and see the difference in my skin texture,” said Byrdie contributor Bianca Lambert. This kit pairs the BHA with the brand’s RESIST Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50, to protect all that pore refining.
Price at time of publish: $17
Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara and Lifter Gloss Gift Set
We deemed Maybelline’s Lifter Gloss the best budget lip gloss on the market; the brand’s Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara provides “length, definition, and curl while without any clumping whatsoever,” according to Byrdie contributor Khera Alexander. Put them together and you’ve got the perfect gift for the no-makeup makeup fan.
Price at time of publish: $17
Kiehl's Grooming Solutions Nourishing Beard Grooming Oil
Whether they’re sporting modest scruff or a down-to-there facial hair, the bearded folks on your gift list will appreciate a good beard oil—particularly if they’ve experienced dandruff, split ends, or dry skin on their lower face. This lightweight formula from Kiehl’s features hydrating pracaxi oil to smooth and soften, and exfoliants to help slough off dry, itchy skin.
Price at time of publish: $30
Kristin Ess French Pin Set
A chic updo or French knot is a cinch with this top-rated pin set. The sets are available in three colors—matte black, rose gold, and gold. We're partial to gold, especially for the holiday season to add a little sparkle to your look. Gentle on hair, these pins do not cause breakage, and they work for all hair types, from fine to curly. (Pro tip: A video tutorial makes styling with these pins even easier.)
Price at time of publish: $10
MEICOLY 8 Colors Water Activated Eyeliner Palette
It’s like watercolor for your eyes! This fun palette is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and paraben-free. At a super affordable price point, this palette allows you to control the pigment pay-off and washes off easily with soapy water.
Price at time of publish: $7
Impalsory Moissanite Stud Earrings
Fill their stockings with sparkle! These studs are made with 18k white gold plated silver and lab created moissanite, which are the season’s buzziest gem stone. These arrive from Amazon in a gift box, so they’re ready to be gifted.
Price at time of publish: $97 for 2 carats
Innerneed Soft Silicone Body Scrubber
Made of 100% food-grade silicone material, this scrubber gives the perfect exfoliation and is especially designed for those with sensitive skin. We love it to help you relax muscles and promote circulation—and PSA, this is way cleaner than a loofah.
Price at time of publish: $7
Briogeo Apple Honey Deep Conditioning Mask
So, Team Byrdie love, loves this brand for its clean and quality formulas that help keep your hair shiny and healthy, but the allure of this product is all in the packaging. This bestselling mask sold out before, but Briogeo brought it back for a limited time during the holiday season. Stock up now for the softest tresses.
Price at time of publish: $40
Balenciaga Paris Keyring
There are keyrings, and there are cool keyrings. This chic stocking stuffer is perfect for the style maven in your life. Plus, it’s on sale, so scoop it while you can.
Price at time of publish: $239
By/Rosie Jane Discovery Set
Gift the entire set or drop spritz or two in the stocking! We love this clean artisanal perfume brand made in Los Angeles for its fresh take on scents. The discovery set comes with seven different perfumes from floral to woodsy. We’re partial to LEILA LOU with notes of pear, fresh cut grass, and jasmine.
Price at time of publish: $25
TONYMOLY Mini House of Masks
From the bestselling K-Beauty brand comes this cute set of five Hyaluronic Sheet Masks to help lock in moisture, boost elasticity, and pamper skin for the holidays.
Price at time of publish: $8
Grace & Stella Under Eye Masks
Score Amazon’s #1 best-selling eye mask that has over 8,000 5-Star reviews. These cooling gel patches help reduce puffiness and dark circles so you can be fresh-faced for the holidays. Each pack comes with 48 patches, so you can break them up and give them to different recipients.
Price at time of publish: $30
Peripera Ink Airy Velvet Lip Tint
This pigmented lip tint is long-wearing, matte, and lightweight. It comes in a wide range of shades, and, at this affordable price, you can easily gift a few different ones.
Price at time of publish: $10
Tower 28 Beauty BeachPlease Lip + Cheek Cream Blush
You can’t go wrong with cream blush for the winter months, and this clean formula melts into skin for an effortless glow. Team Byrdie loves this brand for its quality ingredients that treat skin right.
Price at time of publish: $20
Starface Hydro-Stars
This bestselling hydrocolloid spot treatment is clinically proven to shrink pimples overnight, but we love the cute star sticker design that makes it totally giftable.
Price at time of publish: $15
Why Trust Byrdie
Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has nearly 15 years of journalism experience covering the beauty and lifestyle space for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. She’s written countless gift guides across a wide array of topics and categories, and she is genuinely obsessed with giving gifts. Melanie always finding the right present for whomever she is shopping for.