As we step into a new year most of us want to make at least one change to our lives in an effort to be a better person or live a better life. Yet very few of us even know where to begin. Although having an idea that you need to make a change is the first step, it takes more direction and guidance to actually jump start real change. With that in mind I have found some books that give some guidance on changing everything from your appearance to how your boyfriend dresses.

Face:
Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual for Everyone from Beginner to Pro ($32, bobbibrown.com) If you have been stuck in a makeup rut and need some serious changes in your makeup routine then this book is for you; a complete reference guide for all things makeup. It’s overflowing with helpful information on picking colors, tools and application. There are over 200 full-color photos and step-by-step instructions including a “Ten Step guide to Perfect Makeup” that teach how to apply your makeup in ten minutes or less. This book shows you how to put on makeup like a pro. After reading this book you will have no excuse not to make your makeup look perfect every time.

Body:
The Complete Beck Diet for Life ($24.95, amazon.com) Bestselling author and weight-loss expert Judith S. Beck, Ph.D., has inspired thousands of dieters to lose weight and keep it off using the power of Cognitive Therapy. Her techniques emphasize preparing the mind and changing eating habits before making changes to the food you eat. Now, for the first time, Dr. Beck outlines the next step on the road to success: a specific, balanced diet plan that teaches how to eat thin to ensure that weight loss lasts a lifetime.

Based on the eating choices of her most successful dieters and maintainers, The Complete Beck Diet for Life provides a step-by-step approach to weight loss by helping readers successfully navigate the five stages of learning to eat thin. Each stage teaches a different skill necessary for losing weight and keeping it off. It starts by first helping dieters change their thinking so they can make permanent changes in their eating. When dieters are ready to change what they eat, they determine the right food plan, including comprehensive suggestions for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and bonus foods, as well as a Think Thin menu formula with 37 recipes for Phase 2 of the plan and 15 bonus recipes for Phase 4. In addition, a sample strength-training plan is provided to help shape up while slimming down; interactive elements include filling out Response Cards, completing daily eating logs, and charting progress on weight-loss graphs. This book is really easy to read and follow. A must have for those who are trying to change not only the way they eat but the way they look at food.

Heart:
Dumped! Fun and Games Activity Book ($12.95, barnesandnoble.com) Who hasn’t been on the receiving end of one of these gems: “I think maybe we should see other people.” Or, “It’s not you; it’s me.” What about the mother of all breakup lines, “I think we should just be friends”? Finally, the recently dumped have somewhere to turn thanks to the offbeat, write-in therapy of this book. Dynamic – and satiric - author, actor, and director Josh Lewis introduces Sam and Samantha, two desperate dumpees looking to find their way away from their exes - and back into the land of the living and dating! Then, it’s up to you to help the two scorned lovers weed through a jungle of post-breakup mazes, word searches, crosswords, and more. Featuring a stiff dose of sarcasm and humor, chased by a shot of bitterness, this book promises to get any sorry Sam or sad-faced Samantha out of the dumps and back into the game (. . . so they can do it all over again.)

So if a goal for you in 2009 is to heal a broken heart then you should pick this book up. Now it doesn’t have any easy answers hidden in the crosswords and word searches it does have plenty of humor. And what’s better then laughter for a broken heart.

Mind:
Stop Self-Sabotage! Get Out of Your Own Way To Earn More Money, Improve Your Relationships and Find the Success You Deserve ($16.95,powells.com) For those of us who continue to run in place every day instead of moving forward this is the book for you to make changes in 2009. The book contains five pr oven strategies for getting “unstuck” at work, in relationships, and in life. Something a lot of us need help with.

A self-published success, with more than 55,000 copies sold, this practical guide from a licensed psychotherapist shows you how to conquer any negative beliefs that might be sabotaging your life. Whether you’re feeling stuck in your jobs, dating the wrong person, or unable to lose weight, this simple five-step plan can help transform self-defeating thinking into a higher “Deserve Level,” giving you the tools to stop self-sabotage and embrace the happiness and success you deserve. This is a must read. Most of us who feel held back are being held back ourselves. Time to learn how to conquer that so you can move towards a life you want.

Your Other Half:
The Handbook of Style: A Man’s Guide to Looking Good ($14.95, amazon.com) It can’t be all about you changing. After all if you are making all these changes in 2009 then you are going to need a new and improved version of your other half. So while you working on your self-sabotage, your weight and finding the right shade of blush let your guy work on his style with help from Esquire magazines editors.

Each year, the editors of Esquire produce a special issue of the magazine devoted to men’s style called The Big Black Book, which has been wildly successful. Using the same pragmatic, highly illustrated approach, and laced with Esquire’s trademark humor, Esquire The Handbook of Style brings readers vital information on every aspect of a man’s wardrobe, from suits and shirts, to shoes and neckties, to watches and other accessories. The style-minded reader will find useful advice on suit fabrics and cuts, the right kind of trousers for his build, the essential outerwear to own, how to dress properly for an occasion, how to tie a tie, how to pack for a trip, grooming strategies, and much, much more. A compact and sophisticated accessory in its own right, Esquire The Handbook of Style will be the style bible for the well-dressed man for years to come.

1. Philosophy The Cookie Exchange ($30, philosophy.com) Start your night off right with a hot shower and some mouth-watering body wash. Grab this kit that contains 4 yummy cookie scented shampoo, shower gel and bubble baths. Comes with snicker doodle, oatmeal raisin, sugar cookie and chocolate chip flavored shower gels.

2. Pop Beauty Goddess Clutch London Style ($32, popbeauty.co.uk) All you need to create smoky evening eyes for a hot New Years Eve night on the town. Packed with eye colors, all over color and a blush you will never run out of options for color.

3. GHD IV Mini Ceramic Flat Iron Styler, .5 inch Hair Straightener ($220, ghdhair.com) Create the perfect hairstyle for New Years Eve with this amazing iron. The ultra thin, slim barrel design is rounded with super narrow plates to make styling short hair a snag-free breeze. The slim design curls as easily as it straightens, giving you the ultimate in versatility. This Ceramic styler is truly a petite powerhouse.

4. Sephora Brand Glitter Lashes ($8, sephora.com) Glitter Lashes These spiky, graduated lash strips are dressed up and ready to grab attention. The comfortable adhesive strip is adorned with a ribbon of multi-toned glitter that catches the light with every bat of the eye.

5. NARS Glitter Pencil ($24, narscosmetics.com) Inspired by New York’s infamous 1970s discos, these chunky crayons of translucent color are laced with glitter and can be worn on the eyes, cheeks, lips, and body. Blend for a sheer, subtle, shimmer effect or layer with shadow, blush, or lipstick for a dense glitter. This pencil was made for New Years Eve.

6.Carol’s Daughter Candy Paint Park Avenue Bling Gloss($13.50, carolsdaughter.com) Floss your style this New Years Ever with this shimmery pink gloss. This sexy, high-shine, treatment lip glosses glides on smoothly to deliver luxurious color. It’s infused with natural ingredients such as grape seed oil, Shea butter, aloe vera extract and vitamin E to hydrate, condition, protect and soothe your lips.

7. Laura Mercier Shimmer Bloc: Bronzer ($38, lauramercier.com) Don’t forget to add a little shimmer/bronze to your look. This bronzing/luminizing palette made of a unique, baked formula containing light-reflecting properties. Brighten eyes, cheeks, and body with a hint of natural color and light.

8. M.A.C. Dazzle Lash in Black Dazzle ($12, maccosmetics.com) Throw this in on your lashes before the big party and your eyes will be the star of the night. M.A.C.’s new lash formula offers extreme density and entrancing new lengths. And the new brush works to separate and coat each lash.

9. e.l.f. Professional Travel Kit ($5.00, eyeslipsface.com) Sized to slip easily into your purse or briefcase, this soft, faux leather portfolio houses five professional-quality brushes. Set includes a powder brush, brow & brush comb, angled eye shadow brush, lip brush, and an eye shadow applicator.

10. Black Radiance Oil-Absorbing Blotting Tissues ($3.99, walgreens.com) If you are at the right party you are going to get sweaty. Grab these Oil-Absorbing Blotting Tissues to help save your look. Absorb excess oils without disturbing the makeup’s finish. A perfect size for your purse or pocket. Powder free.

11.Dior Vernis - Black Sequins Nail Lacquer ($19, sephora.com) To top of your look go for this gorgeous black nail lacquer with silver flecks. Gives nails a celestial shimmer. The raven black lacquer contains silver flecks that make your nails looks like a starry night—they glitter. Dior’s fast-drying, diamond-hard, chip-resistant formula makes sure this limited edition varnish lasts.

12. Rosemary’s Potpourri’s Scent of a Name ($7, rosemarysscents.com) Order a scent specialized made for your name made from natural oil blends of fruits, floral and spice. Leave your midnight kiss partner wondering why you smell so wonderful.

December — It’s that time of year again. Time to reflect back on the year 2008 and look ahead. With that in mind, Clutch gives you a list of the best products of 2008. The products that made our year a little more beautiful, a little more relaxing, a little more manageable. Some products are old favorites, some are new favorites but they are all our favorites of 2008. So without further ado — the list of our favorite products of 2008.

MAKEUP:
CoverGirl Exact Eyelights ($8.95, Mass Market Retail Stores) I think 2008 was the year of mascara. There were many exciting things happening with mascara this year. New shapes of brushes, tons of color and even vibrating brushes. But our favorite mascara this year is the CoverGirl Exact Eyelights. This mascara is a technological innovation that makes eyes four times brighter while leaving lashes long, lush and clump-free. Cover Girl Exact Eyelights comes in four customized shades to enhance each specific eye color. With just one coat your eyes will look dramatically brighter.

NARS Multiple Duo ($45, narscosmetics.com) Nars seems to always create the most flattering colors. This year they gave us two of their amazing shades in one sleek mirrored compact. Each pair features complementary colors of the versatile, multipurpose cult favorite for eyes, lips and cheeks. The cream-to-powder formulation blends effortlessly to provide sheer, all-over color, with subtle, shimmering accents.

Prescriptives All Skins Mineral Makeup ($32.50, prescriptives.com) By the end of this year almost every makeup line had a mineral product in its lineup. Prescriptives offering stood out in this sea of new mineral products. All Skins offers the skin vitamins, minerals, gems and sun protection in 18 different shades. So anyone can find their exact match and have skin that looks naturally radiant and unbelievably healthy. The powder is weightless and long-wearing. I love the different shades and how flawless it stays throughout the day.

FACE Skincare:
Image Vital C Hydrating Eye Recovery Gel ($29.80, imageskincare.com) I have tried many eye gels that make big promises but don’t deliver. So I was truly surprised with this Hydrating Eye Recover Gel from Image Skincare. This is an ultra hydrating Vitamin C/Hyaluronic gel that contains a patented botox-like “Recovery Complex Compound” that will smooth and diminish fine lines. Works hard to supply your delicate eye area with moisture boost all day long. And its great for people with acne, Rosacea, Sensitive dry skin and dehydrated skin because they use no silicones, chemical preservatives or petrochemicals. And they use eco-friendly packaging.

M2 Skin Recovery Moisturizer ($30.50, skincarerx.com)Most moisturizers that really work are to heavy for my skin so I was elated to find this oil-free, featherweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Formulated to comfort and protect the skin from moisture loss throughout the day while improving the appearance of aging, acne, and hyper pigmentation. The antioxidant-rich moisturizer soothes and repairs stressed, dehydrated skin. And it doesn’t weigh skin or leave a sticky residue. Perfect.

Dr. Brandt Poreless Toner ($35, drbrandtskincare.com) I felt like in 2008 my age really started to show. One of the things I noticed was the pores on my face. Well I tried a couple of pore products and the one that I was the most impressed with was the Dr. Brandt Poreless Toner. Formulated with salicylic acid and green tea to refresh and tone skin it works to keep pores in check. The Toner contains citric acid and green tea tree oil to help soothe irritated skin and refine pores and it helps to control excess oil. Use on face and/or décolleté.

Eve Lom Kiss Mix ($25, beauty.com) Something historical happened this year. Well two things historical happened this year. The election of Barak Obama as president and Eve Lom, the coveted international beauty secret, is currently available stateside at Beauty.com. This London based line, which is enjoyed by women all over the world, can finally be had at beauty.com as part of their all-star beauty lineup. If you’re new to the line a good way to get introduced is by trying their Kiss Mix. It is a rich glossy treatment that helps to moisturize and protect tender lips. Perfect to use on its own or over lipstick for added allure. And you can start 2009 in on the secret.

BODY SKINCARE:
Avon’s Bond Girl 007 Fragrance ($30, avon.com) Bond Girls are powerful, sexy, confidence and resourceful. Every man wants one and every woman wants to be one. Avon captures the essence of a Bond Girl with an alluring blend of velvety floral, cool freshness and warm woods featuring top notes of white peach and orange blossom. The fragrance also includes notes of jasmine, freesia and amber. This fragrance will make any women fell like a Bond Girl, determined, empowered and sexy. And sorry ladies a chance to date Daniel Craig is not included in the purchase.

Terralina Body Lotion ($28, terralina.com) In 2008 consumers continued the trend of looking for products that were good for you, good for the environment and luxurious. Terralina offers all this with their Body Lotion. This refreshing lotion contains a signature blend of nutritive ingredients like sandalwood, barley extracts, jojoba, olive and Shea butter. Perfect for all over the body any time day or night. And helps to rebuild the skin’s moisture mantle and barrier function, keeping moisture in the skin for better hydration. Plus the Body Lotion’s 98.95% natural formula doesn’t contain paraben glycol, silicones, harsh alcohols mineral oils or artificial fragrance.

Kenzo Amour le Parfum ($65, sephora.com) Most of the new fragrances this year have been lost in my memory because they just didn’t stand out. But Kenzo Amour is not one of them. This Perfume stands out with its refined warmth and woodsy notes. It’s a woody, oriental fragrance composed of rich and precious ingredients: Patchouli, Benzoin Balm of Siam, Amber, and Incense mixed with the original Kenzo Amour notes. Other notes include Incense, Rice Steam, Amber, Patchouli and Vanilla. Beautiful for all the right reasons.

Belli Nourish Me Enriched Body Lotion ($19, belliskincare.com) A long time ago a very beautiful woman told me the secret to her soft skin was using Johnson’s and Johnson baby lotion every morning and before bed. Ever since that day I have faithfully followed her lead and used the baby lotion in the pink bottle. But this year I have decided tweak her formula just a little. I will still use baby lotion but a new kind that far outshines its old school competition. Nourish Me Enriched Body Lotion is a pure and gentle lotion that helps to hydrate a baby’s delicate skin. Unlike other lotions Belli uses the essential oil of chamomile, to soften, refresh and soothe skin from head to toe. And it’s free of artificial dyes and parabens. Best of all it will leave with an incredibly soft sweet scent all day. If it’s good enough for babies its good enough for me.

HAIR:
Motions Oil Moisturizer Hair Lotion ($3.89, Available at food drug and mass market retailers nationwide) Its seems like most of my friends this year decided to grow out their perms and go natural. Motions Hair care has products to help them make the transition. This hair lotion is formulated with emollients to soften hair while providing manageability. The lotion adds moisture back into the hair, leaving tresses looking hydrated and healthy.

Jackie’s Hair Care Nourishing Hair Crème (jackiesclothing.com) In 2008 I have been taking better care of my skin and hair. Jackie’s skin and hair products provide many ways to do that. But there is one stand out product that I feel in love with. Packed with yummy ingredients like Sweet Almond Oil Sesame Rice Bran, Sunflower Oil, Coconut Oil Ylang Ylang, Shea Butter and Grapeseed Oil it hydrates and nourishes every hair strand. The scent is sweet but not overly so and the texture isn’t too heavy. Best of all its so thick and nourishing a little goes a long way. I apply it after I condition my hair and before I style it. Helps to define curls.

Prosilk Golden Flat Iron 1.25″ (125PS) ($79.95, prosilkprod.com) I had a good flat iron going into 2008 but my socks were blown off when I tried the Pro Silk Golden Flat Iron. This iron delivers professional salon quality results at home. It heats up in 7 seconds, has an Automatic sensor control system and preserves moisture and shine to give smooth silky hair. With its ceramic technology it helps to eliminates damaging hot spots and is super easy to clean and inhibits bacteria and odor build up. And just because the Pro Silk delivers salon results doesn’t mean you have to be a pro to use it. Its lightweight and slim which makes it very easy to create styles and straighten hair.

Holiday Gift Guide - Blendable
Makeup:
Copper Diamond Beauty Bobbi Brown ($95, bobbibrowncosmetics.com) Bobbi’s iconic accessory, updated for the holidays in golden copper faux-leather. This structured, multi-tiered case is sized to hold makeup and skincare essentials. Features two compartments: top features interior pockets for brushes and bottom holds a removable mirror for an instant vanity with ample space for your favorites. Ideal for travel or at home organizing.

Sue Devitt Microquatic Hydrating Marine Mineral Eye Palette in illuminator ($37.50, barneys.com) Let your eyes do all the talking this holiday season with this beautiful palette hat features a variation for flattering purples in blendable, wearable and long-lasting eye color. The formula of the color contains biotechnological marine and botanical substances that help to absorb water from the air and restore skin’s natural elasticity.

Sephora Holiday Eye Palette by Dior ($49.50, sephora.com) What beauty junkie wouldn’t love getting this gorgeous holiday palette? It is packaged in a classic design and has six wonderful eyeshadows. The shades include deep brown, sparkling beige with green and shimmery gray. Every shade you will need to help crate glamorous looks. So get this and let it transform you..

Hair Care:
Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk ($12, carolsdaughter.com) This Christmas doesn’t leave the cows milk for Santa and save this milk as a gift. Hair Milk is a light weight solution for adding shine and frizz free control for natural curls. It contains a delicious mix of set almond oil, apricot kernel oil and essential oil of lemon grass that work to coat hair in natural goodness. Plus Hair Milk is paraben free and contains no petroleum, mineral oil or arrival colors.

Zero Frizz Corrective Hair Serum ($7.99, Food, Drug and Mass Stores Nationwide) If you know someone that is always complaining about their frizzy hair then this might be the perfect stocking stuffer for them. It is a humidity resistant smoothing serum that contains a customized blend of ceramic, UV Protestants, proteins and Vitamins A, E and C to instantly smooth and seals strands. This product is ideal for thick, coarse or extremely dry and frizz prone hair. The serum works hair to straighten hair while nourishing it and providing high tech protection.

Got2b’s Cosmic Shimmering Serum ($5.99, Food, Drug and Mass Retailers Nationwide) There is no better way to ring in the holidays than an early gift for yourself. Treat your dull dry hair with a shot of this lightweight, no-greasy gel-like serum. Immediately your frizzes will be tamed and your hair will have a healthy shine. The unique formulation seals the hair shaft to tame flyways and frizzes. While the magic of mica promises a multidimensional shine that lasts all day.

Bath-time:
Alba Hawaiian Bath & Body Gift Collection ($17.99, Whole Foods Market or on the web at AlbaBotanica.com) If you can’t afford to buy an island trip for your favorite sister here is the next best thing. This set contains nourishing natural ingredients that will leave you feeling great about your purchase. It is comprised of Passion Fruit Body wash and Papaya Mango Body Cream, this exclusive holiday duo is enriched with organic botanicals and tropical fruit and flower extracts for skin.

Nature’s Gate Pineapple Body Wash an Body Lotion Gift Set (Whole Foods) Give somebody you love a gift that gives back with this luscious gift set. This set provides two fabulous products, a creamy body lotion and a luxurious body wash, that help to hydrate and smooth skin. Using organic pineapple, mangosteen and cocoa butter the set helps to leave skin soft and supple. But it also helps to provide clean water to poor communities in Asia and Africa through the organization watered America. A portion of your purchase will go directly to support this cause. And it is truly a worthy cause.

Lush Christmas Cake Slice Soap ($ Sold by Weight $7.95/ 1/4 LB, lushusa.com/shop) No we aren’t talking about fruit cake. This Christmas Cake will be something you actually like. Christmas Cake Slice contains incredibly softening almond oil that’s easily absorbed and non-greasy. Almond oil is rich in vitamin A and E, so it works to protect and nourish the skin. Organic aloe vera extract soothes and helps to replenish moisture in dry skin. This is a great soap for keeping skin soft and supple through the cold, harsh winter months. Now who can turn down a slice of cake that sweet?

Korres Sugar and Spice Set ($12, sephora.com) A sweet and spicy holiday shower gel trio that is sure to please any one on your list. This limited edition, Sephora-exclusive collection blends classic Christmas smells into festive bubbles. The set includes three creamy-foam shower gels that use proteins and vitamins to give you gorgeously healthy, moisturized, and glowing skin. The scents include in the set are Hot Spiced Chocolate, Honey Spice and Sugar Glazed Clementine. And the formulas are dermatologically tested and mineral oil, silicone, propylene glycol free.

Skincare:
La Mer’s Luxury Essentials ($630, Neiman Marcus) If you are really trying to go over the top this holiday season then this is the gift to give. The Luxury Essentials brings together three La Mer signatures- Crème e la Mer, The Lifting Face Serum and the Eye Concentrate. If that wasn’t enough they arrive in a sumptuous mother of pearl box. The recipients of this gift will enjoy improved clarity, tone, softness and radiance. An ideal indulgence for loyal La Mer devotees, first time users and people you love a lot.

Capture Totale Nutrition Capture Totale Haute Nutrition Rich Crème ($125, Dior Beauty Counters Nationwide) This wonderful crème helps protect skin against atmospheric aggressions and targets signs of aging. The luxurious formula helps firm and shape the skin while replenishing moisture and stimulating skin with micorcultation. In a month of use 66% of women reported firmer plumper skin.

My Blend Prescribed Comfort MiniLab Day Crème by Dr. Olivier Courtin ($70, saksfifthavenue.com) With the stress of shopping, holiday gift giving and get togethers, you may need a lot of comfort before it’s all said and done. But don’t forget about your skin which can show stress and aging more in the holiday season when the weather is harsh and drying. The prescription? This anti-aging moisturizer that treats vulnerable, sensitive skin. It works to calm and soothe on contact, delivering optimal moisture and protection. Perfect for yourself or someone on your list with dry, sensitive skin. Use with an Emergency Booster from the line like Radiant Burst ($45), which reinforce a luminous glow before a special even such as a holiday party or a big family get together.

Eco Conscious Gifts:
Whole Foods Market Sustainable Goods PJ’s ($29, Whole Foods Market) Every year in my family we get a new pair of PJ’s. Most of the time this means we get a pair of flannel PJ’s with cats, dogs and hot dogs on them. This year I am going to put a stop to the same flannel pair and give my sister these eco-friendly pair. These PJ’s are made from organic colo-grown cotton produced by farmers in Peru. Organic cotton doesn’t just feel better on your skin it’s also better for your health and health of he earth. You can help support suitable farming by choosing products made with organic cotton like these PJ’s.

Maggie’s Organics Cotton Peace Scarf ($15.99, Whole Foods Market) If I could have one guaranteed gift for Christmas it would be world peace. Since Santa might not be bringing that down the chimney this year I can always buy a Peace Scarf to help make someone else’s life better. Maggie’s Organic Cotton Peace Scarf is made by a Costa Rican family company, who always works with their producers to ensure livable working conditions, respect and independence for workers. Which helps you feel great about your purchase. The scarf emblazoned with the word “peace” in ten different languages enables wearers to display a message of good will during the holiday season. And the scarf is super cute, chic and the perfect length to wear any way you want.

Jason’s Natural Apple Spice Two-Pack Gift Set ($12.99, jason-natural.com) Make someone you care about happy with this deliciously scented organic gift set. Apple essences tickle your senses as you lather your skin in either the Apple Spice Satin Shower Body Wash or Hand and Body Lotion. They are each infused with Cinnamon Oil and Apple Fruit Extract to define nourish and moisturize skin. Your are left with naturally soft and beautiful skin. And that is something to celebrate.

Happy Holidays Luscious Lather Variety Soap Gift Bag ($19.99, saveyourworld.com) The Luscious Lather Variety Soap Gift Bag makes an excellent stocking stuffer. Packed with exfoliating soaps that have delicious aromas, high quality lather, rounded structure and a beautiful leaf stamp. The intoxicating scents range from the clean citrus-grapefruit aroma of Oasis Fruit to the floral bouquet of Regal Blossom or spicy wood-berry wiff or Rainforest. The set also comes with samples and Save Your Rainforest Wristbands. Best of all each gift bag has saves at least one acre, if not several acres of rainforest for a year.

Perfect for your friend who already has everything:
Candles:
Nest Fragrance Candle ($32, neimanmarcus.com)- A perfect gift for your friend that has everything. This exquisite candle combines color, texture and fragrance perfectly. Each candle comes in a glass vase designed to compliment the space you use it in with its classical shape and modern stripe etching. The candles come in 12 scents such as Wasabi Pear, Beeswezx, & Whipped Cream and Freesia.

Peeptoad Hollow Natural Soy Candles ($9, peeptoadhollow.com) These natural soy based candles smell so good that Santa might be requesting these instead of cookies left out. The candles are from environmentally friendly biodegradable, vegetable based wax. Regular candles are based on petroleum these candles are made from soy which is a renewable resource grown right here in the USA. The candles are so fragrant that you can just open them up with out having to light them for your room to smell wonderful.

Perfect for the Beauty Junkie on Your List:
Dior Mini Backstage Brush Set ($60, neimanmarcus.com) The ultimate mini brush set is the ultimate gift for the beauty junkie on your list. The chic, portable wallet features four different brush essentials for lips, eyes, blush and foundation. The set also comes with a mirror and Dior “D”logo. The reusable chic pouch will keep brushes clean and organized for a quick on the go touch up.

Cosmos Sexiest Beauty Secrets: The Ultimate Guide to Looking Gorgeous ($12.89, amazon.com) This stunning 192-page book serves up hundreds of insider tips and tricks on everything from scoring a flawless luminous complexion to creating sex-kitten hairstyles to working the latest make-up trends. Perfect for the lady on your list that loves all things beauty. It is packed with beautiful images, how-to instructions, decadent at-home spa ideas that advise women how to pamper themselves like a pro (no appointment necessary) and crucial tips for overcoming common beauty blunders. Cosmo’s Sexiest Beauty Secrets is an indispensable resource for any women who wants to look her best.

Time for another beauty cheat sheet. This time it’s the holiday edition and it’s the perfect cheat sheet to help you get your boyfriend, husband, man friend or whatever you call the special man in your life, the perfect last minute holiday gift.

Zirh Cocktail Bars ($15, zirh.com) Men might have an easier time getting ready in the morning but we have them beat when it comes to fun bath smell goodies. They just get the same woodsy, outdoor, dew in the morning smelling bar soap while we get everything from fresh cut flowers to pumpkin pie smell goods. Zirh decided to change that with these innovative fragrant soaps for men. Zirh’s Cocktail Bar soaps come in five different aromas- Long Island Iced Tea, Sake Bomb, Cucumber Martini, Screwdriver and Hurricane. Each soap smells remarkable similar to the cocktail it’s named after but won’t leave you smelling like you just left the bar. Instead it provides a fresh clean interpretation of the smells and leaves the skin smelling intoxicating. So good you might have to sneak and use it.

The Art of Saving 4 Elements of the Perfect Shave ($45, artofshaving.com) Unless your guy looks like he lives in the woods or is going for the new Kayne look, then he is shaving and needs the perfect tools for a perfect shave. Enter The Art of Shaving’s 4 Elements of the Perfect Shave. This starter kit combines aromatherapy-based products, handcrafted accessories and expert shaving technique to guarantee optimal shaving results while relieving and preventing ingrown hairs, razor burn, tough beard and sensitive skin. The Starter Kit offers 2 weeks’ worth of the Art of Shavings essentials for achieving a close and comfortable shave. Comes complete with Pre-Shave Oil, Shaving Cream, After-Shave Balm and a Genuine Badger Shaving Brush. It is great or traveling and even better to ensure a smooth face for your guy so that you can kiss on it.

Dr. Brandt “C” Gel ($90, drbrandtskincare.com) No one wants to look old. Girls or guys. Girls are just more vocal about fighting aging and looking for beauty products to help. Guys deny they are getting old and buy a sports car. A lot of guys think creams and anti-aging potions are girly and feminine. Even if they knew the cream worked they just can’t work up enough nerve to dip their finger your rose scented cream. Well they don’t have to. Dr. Brandt’s “c” gel comes in a minimalist frill free container and provides a cocktail of powerful anti-oxidants that firm, smooth and fight free radicals in a highly potent vitamin “c” base. Its lightweight and has a silicone texture that leaves the skin feeling smooth. And if you have to sell it to him just use the terms “silicone” “highly potent” “cocktail of powerful anti-oxidants” and he will be all over the “c” gel.

Q: My office manager keeps the heat in our office on full blast in the winter and as a result my skin feels like leather by the end of the December. What products can I use to keep my skin hydrated in indoor heat?
Nothing dries your skin faster then a tanning bed or indoor heat. It’s like blow-drying your skin with the heat on high. Plus offices tend to have low humidity, which leaves skin chapped, dry and irritated. The trick is replenishing the moisture in your skin with a nourishing crème. Goat Milk Facial Crème by Chivas Skin Care is the perfect product for all day hydration ($16, chivasskincare.com). This fragrance free goat milk crème is 82% Organic and fragrance free making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. It is super light but ultra hydrating. The crème goes on smooth and uses natural ingredients like goat’s milk, organic coconut oil, jojoba oil and organic aloe juice to moisturize skin throughout the day. A perfect solution for indoor heating dryness.

Q: Is there any anti-wrinkle product that really works?
The market is flooded with products that claim that they will have your skin looking like a newborn babies in two weeks. And if their claims were true I would buy enough of those creams to fill my living room. But there are creams on the market that do what they say and really deliver. The trouble is trying to find which creams work and which are selling you dreams. Let me help you just a little bit. I recently heard about two new products that help increase skins elasticity and firmness. Relastin makes a skin crème called the Skin Revitalizer ($69, relastin.com). It is a skin firming lotion that works through all seasons, for all skin types, day or night, for all skin types. Using Relastin’s Skin Firming Complex, Skin Revitlzaer helps skin’s cells to produce elastin and restore elasticity on their own. Skin is left looking firmer, smoother and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

The other product is Borba Age Defying Concentrate Açaí Elastin Fiber Treatment Serum ($45, borba.com). It is enriched with a highly concentrated dose of skin-rejuvenating nutrients plus Heptapeptide-1. Gentle enough for even sensitive skin. BORBA Age-Defying Concentrate Açaí Elastin Fiber Treatment Serum is an innovative antioxidant facial serum that provides moisture, elasticity and firmness to the skin. Reduces signs of fine lines and wrinkles resulting in newer looking skin.

Q: I have a huge holiday party at work and I want to look like a knockout. I have no idea how to do eye makeup. Help?
No need to worry. Well maybe about your promotion but not about your eye makeup. ColorOn’s EyeEnvy Tinsel Kit ($25, sephora.com) will make getting your face ready for the holiday party an cinch. Really the hardest part will be deciding what color to wear. This revolutionary, one-size-fits-all mineral cream eye shadow appliqués kit does the rest.

The Tinsel Kit features five pairs of peel-off mineral cream eye shadows. They are 100% hypoallergenic, longwearing, crease proof and can be put on in minutes. . With stunning colors and avant-garde designs, these appliqués fit every eye size and shape and can be applied in minutes. And the Tinsel Kit is packed with festive shadows and fun shapes (like a star). The kit also comes with GetSet application powder and brush. You will be party ready in no time.

You already know that I am a sucker for anything that smells good enough to eat. Something about the smell of homemade baked goods and sweet treats makes me smile. I had even more reason to smile after discovering Carol’s Daughter Sweet Honey Dip Chocolate Brown Sugah Scrub ($34, carolsdaughter.com). This luxurious moisturizing body scrub is infused with real brown sugar crystals and natural, aromatic oils. The brown sugar works to polish away dead skin cells while leaving skin hydrated and soft. The sugar is a natural way to exfoliate dead skin cells, it cleans pores and moisturizes dry skin.

The scrub contains olive oil to help rejuvenate tired skin. And it also contains substantial amounts of polysaturated omega 6 fatty acids providing skin rejuvenation benefits and improving skin’s elasticity while moisturizing. Rich in protein, Vitamin E and antioxidants olive oil softens dry skin without leaving a greasy film or interfering with necessary skin functions, allowing the skin to breath and shed dead cells.

A perfect scrub that will have your skin hydrated and moisturized right away. The sweet smell is not overpowering but more like a warm greeting or like a plate of warm cookies. Your skin will look and feel better. Would also work as a great gift for someone you love!

Kings & Queens The Royal Family of Showergels ($9, nordstrom.com) A royal new body care range developed around the herbs and spices favored by the aristocracy of a bygone age. The line reflects the true decadence of royals past with an imaginative, modern twist. If it was good enough for Kings & Queens, it is good enough for me.

AHAVA Dead Sea Mineral Mud ($25, ahavaus.com) A clay body mask loaded with minerals that provide moisture as it cleanses skin and removes impurities. This therapeutic mineral treatment relives tension in muscles and joints, while softening skin to a radiant glow. Leaves your skin feeling amazing outside as it leaves you feeling more relaxed inside.

Prescriptives New Super Line Preventor Extreme Lifting Concentrate ($38, prescriptives.com) This concentrate visibly lifts and firms, boosts collagen and smoothes out the deepest worry lines and wrinkles. Immediately look more lifted and reduce the look of lines and wrinkles by 49%. The concentrate uses state of the art technology to provide immediate line filling and diffusion of imperfections that wears for hours. Soothing to skin.

The Godmother Soap by Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics (sold by weight, $6.75 for 1/4 lb, lushusa.com) This soap will change the way you look at soap forever. This popular pink soap has a vanilla based Snow Fairy Scent, is adorned with silver fairies and leaves your skin sparkling. Perfect for those times when you need a little magic to pick your spirits up.

Zelens Skin Science DNA Protection Day Cream ($200, zelens.com) A light, hydrating skin cream which provides powerful long-lasting environmental protection and optimum hydration of the skin. It provides the continuous hydration balance necessary for the health and vitality of the skin. Skin looks and feels more nourished and healthy.

Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion Body ($45, drbrandtskincare.com) A top of the line exfoliating cream that effectively polishes away dead skin cells on the entire body, instantly revealing smooth, radiant, healthy skin. The signature formula regenerates skin cells while improving skin’s glow and softness even on the roughest dry patches around elbows, knees and feet.

Pumpkin Spice Polish by Lamas Beauty Intl. ($21, lamasbeauty.com) This deliciously scented 3-in-1 polish cleanses, exfoliates and polishes to reveal a flawless, even glow. It deep cleans, extracts the debris and dead cells which clog pores and gently exfoliates. Skin will be left looking radiant and best of all its earth friendly.

June Jacobs Brightening Serum ($110, junejacobs.com) This unique hydroquinione-free serum illuminates dull and stressed skin, as it delivers a powerful antioxidant cocktail to revitalize, rejuvenate and restores skin. Combining the latest anti-oxidant and natural ingredients to help protect against free radical damage, it is ideal for all skin types.

Clarins Extra-Firming Tightening Lift Botanical Serum ($75, clarins.com) The natural alternative to injections, lasers and lifts. This serum is the ultimate age-control, anti-wrinkle, extra firming skin care with immediate dual tightening and smoothing effect for dramatic results upon application. The intensive lifting action is immediate and your skin will look and feel firmer automatically.

Amore Pacific MOISTURE BOUND Refreshing Hydra-Gel ($100, neimanmarcus.com) A mineral-rich, oil-free hydrating gel that promotes cellular energy and prevents aging. The gel provides immediate hydration to tired dry skin while energizing skin cells. Moisture Bound is enriched with minerals to encourage skin’s own hydration response. It also provides antioxidant protection against free radicals and anti-aging benefits.

Karin Herzog Vit-A-Apricot ($66, karinherzogus.com) This luxurious anti-aging face cream is formulated with 2% oxygen, vitamin A & E and Apricot oil. This anti-aging cream smoothes and tones the skin. Vit-A-Apricot gives a boost of radiance and energy to skin to tone the complexion and reduce the appearance of pores. Great nourishment for all skin types.

My Blend Anti-Jet Lag Relief Emergency Booster ($45, saksfifthavenue.com) As the holiday season nears travelers are going to take to the friendly skies. And most of them will experience the not so friendly effects of travel on their skin. The dry air on the planes and stress of air travel can leave skin dehydrated. That’s where Anti-Jet Lag Relief Emergency Booster comes in. It rids the skin of toxins, restores moisture balance, and returns skin to its natural radiance. Just add the booster to any of the five mega-concentration of pure actives from the line. After using the booster, my skin immediately felt and looked more refreshed.

Solavie Eco-Global Skin and Hair Care ($10-38, solavie.com) A system of unisex body products that includes face washes, moisturizers, shower gels,hair shampoos and conditioners that is geared toward the climate you are in instead of your skin type. You can choose between Mountains, Urban, Tropics, Shore Plains or Desert. Each type contains specific nutrients and healing proprieties that someone in that environment might need. The packaging is super simple and useful you can snap two different products together depending on what you need. Maybe you want your conditioner and lotion for a trip. The Plains Calming Face Wash packed with native botanicals is my favorite. It is soothing and leaves my face refreshed without being dry. Plus, it’s 100% natural.

Jergens Original Scent Cherry-Almond Moisturizer ($3.99-6.99, mass retailers worldwide) A sentimental journey in every cherry-almond scented drop, this part memento/part body lotion transports you back in time as it transforms dry skin into captivatingly soft skin. Enriched with nourishing emollients, the moisturizer leaves skin embraceable silky and subtly fragranced with the classic Cherry-Almond scent. Smooth on this timeless formula daily for comforting relief that helps eliminate dryness, and gives you skin that’s noticeably improved, healthier looking and inviting to the touch.

FlowerByKenzo Winter Flowers ($65, sephora.com) A powdery, floral scent inspired by the hellebore rose. Winter Flowers incorporates a sparkling top note of mandarin, floral middle note of hellbore rose and powdery base note of absolute vanilla. The hellebore rose in the wild, is a sweetly scented flower that has been used through history for it’s medicinal, magical powers. Winter Flowers captures that magic in a bottle in this tantalizing fragrance.

V.I.P. Bijan Women ($58, perfumania.com) A floral gourmand fragrance distinguished by true femininity and illustrious character. Bijan women has top notes of dark plum, sparkling mandarin and black currant. A floral heart of fresh lily, sensual jasmine, and tirare flower are accentuated by deep, rich base notes of dark vanilla, creamy musk and black amber. It captures the true essence of a glamorous sensuous woman.

Christina Aguilera Inspire Eau de Parfum Spray ($49, christina-aguilera-perfumes.com) This fragrance stands on its own with a scent that dares you to be who you want to be. It inspires a fun and flirty side with a vibrant, fruity white floral scent. Inspire is classic and enduring; sweetly feminine and sexy. It has a vibrant freesia top note and a heart of beautiful Tuberose flower. The fragrance conveys femininity and fun.