Hair's the Scoop

Brands

First up on our Holiday Gift Guide, that much-loved-yet-awkward-to-give anti-aging aid. Though even pre-teens are now slathering themselves in the latest formulations, there's nothing more deflating than receiving a present boldly marked with words like "crow's feet," "age spots" or "sagging skin" — especially from a loved one or co-worker.

7 discreetly packaged, must-try miracle workers that are sure to please:

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
Beloved by fresh-faced stars like Cate Blanchett, this powerful potion has been the brand's best-selling SKU for over 20 years. Suitable for all skin types. ($100-$195, SK-II.com.)

Kerastase Elixir Ultime
This lightweight treatment oil delivers a powerful cocktail of emollient and anti-oxidant active ingredients for ultimate shine and suppleness, whilst also promoting cellular renewal. ($50, Kerastase-Usa.com.)

Guerlain Midnight Star Collect'or Extraordinary Radiance Treatment
Contained in convenient, single-dose capsules, this potent pearlescent gel dispels the signs of fatigue and stress, to reveal a fresh, radiant complexion. ($73, Sephora.com.)

Fresh Brown Sugar Escape
Includes Kate Hudson's beloved Brown Sugar Body Polish, a purse-friendly tube of Brown Sugar Body Cream and the brand's ultra-nourishing Brown Sugar Oval Soap. ($96 value for $75, Fresh.com. BONUS: Spend $75+ before 12/25, and you'll receive a complimentary Brown Sugar Body Lotion with code GIVEMORE75.)

Lip Fusion Objects of Desire Micro-Collagen Lip Plump
Creates fuller, smoother, perfectly plumped and moisturized lips in seconds, with results lasting up to 48 hours. Available in four shades. ($29, FusionBeauty.com.)

Philosophy Kiss Me Tonight
A luxurious lip therapy that works on contact to soften roughness and soothe dry lips, and also reduce the look of fine lines for a more youthful-looking pout. ($20, Philosophy.com.)

Bliss Make Over Your Mani
This dual-action hand treatment set combines Bliss' gel-lined Glamour Gloves and High Intensity Hand Cream to transform winter-worn paws from parched to petal-soft in minutes. ($66 value for $48, BlissWorld.com.)

Source: Creatas Images/Jupiter

Which methods should you try? What works best? There are loads of options and opinions floating around the web, so I thought it best to test them myself to see which hair removal products, methods, and treatments really reign supreme. First up? The art of shaving.

Top tips for a clean, close shave:

- Pre-treat your skin a few minutes before you shave if you’re prone to irritation, nicks/cuts, or ingrown hairs. I adore The Art of Shaving’s Pre-Shave Oil, but you could just as easily use your favorite body oil/cream (or even hair conditioner) to soften the hair and protect your skin.

- Always opt for a 'wet shave', as the moisture and heat will allow for a smoother shave.

- Experiment with shaving creams, balms, and gels to find what works best for you. Whether it’s a splurge/steal or formulated for men, the right product can make all the difference. In a hurry (or hotel)? Try using your hair conditioner- it’s a fast, effective alternative.

- Change your razor blade frequently. If you prefer disposable razors, try to limit your use to no more than two to three shaves per razor, and if you use replaceable blades, it’s best to toss them after four to five uses.

- Splurge on a razor with a pivoting head (to avoid nicks).

- As for the blade, choose one that has multiple blades (for the closest possible shave opt for 3 or 4), and a moisture-strip for added protection.

- Moisturize the area as soon as you’ve stepped out of the shower/bath (for maximum absorption). If you find body creams or oils too heavy, try a lightweight gel formulation like Shave Savour from Whish.

- Lightly exfoliate every day/other day to ensure you avoid any ingrown hairs. I love the Ingrown Hair Eliminating Peel Pads from Bliss, but you can also use your favorite body scrub (or a body wash with salicylic acid/body lotion with glycolic acid) to keep the area clear.

Have any shaving tips/techniques of your own? Do share!