Best Beauty Products | November 2012

Last month, Jemma Kidd's eponymous makeup brand went into bankruptcy. That's the cloud, but the silver lining is her new book, Jemma Kidd Make-Up Secrets ($25). Yes, you'll get the makeup basics you'd expect from such a tome, but Kidd goes one step further. From an Audrey Hepburn makeup tutorial to smart information on nutrition, the offerings are such that you'll refer to this book again and again.

— Annie Tomlin, beauty director

Big brows are in, and there's no better way to get the most precise, natural-looking fill than with brow stencils. With the just-released Zoey Van Jones Eyebrow Shaping Stencil Kit ($35), the correct angles-and-ratios guesswork is taken out. Durable stencils easily mold to the face shape, without slipping, gapping, or making you look like Sam the Eagle. 

— Jaime Richards, associate editor

Can you say match made in heaven? Hourglass has put two of its bestselling primers (the hydrating No. 28 Serum and the skin-perfecting Veil Mineral) in one travel-sized set. You could give this Primer Duo ($25) to a friend, but I'll be keeping mine for myself.

— Jessica Cruel, editorial assistant

I tend to get acne flare-up in the Winter because of the temperature changes, so I like to keep my face in tip-top shape with a series of masks. I use Peter Thomas Roth's Therapeutic Sulfur Masque ($40) two or three times a week. It deep-cleans my pores and soothes my breakouts so well that I can see the difference as soon as I wash it off.

— Maria Del Russo, editorial assistant

The T3 Micro Featherweight 2 Hair Dryer ($200) has gotten a makeover, and I'm loving the sleek new look. Don't let the hefty price tag scare you — think of it as an investment in a good hair day every time you use it. It uses tourmaline crystals to deliver ionic technology to your strands, which significantly reduces frizz and drying time, all while boosting shine, volume, and hair health.

— Kaitlyn Dreyling, associate editor

I'm picky when it comes to fragrances, and I usually turn my nose up at rose. Not so with Jo Malone's Velvet Rose & Oud Cologne Intense ($135). It pairs Damask rose with smoky oud wood, adding touches of clove and praline for a hint of sweetness and spice. It is unapologetically sensual, very warm, and extremely alluring. Wear it with your best lingerie when you mean business.

— AT

When faking a good night's rest is needed, reach for L'Occitane's Immortelle Precious Serum ($70). Made using over 1,000 immortelles, a flower known for its resilient properties, this soaks-right-in serum leaves skin soft, dewy, and revived — almost as if you got your full eight hours in. 

— JR

Hair requires the perfect balance of moisture and protein, and Beth Minardi Fortifying Pre-Wash Therapy ($35) infuses your strands with both. Unlike some oil treatments, this product is light enough to rinse out after one shampoo. Plus, it fades to clear so you can wear it while you run errands. No one will ever know.

— JC

Juicy Couture's Viva La Juicy La Fleur ($90) is a flowery update on the original scent. I love the mix of fruity notes like wild berries mixed with feminine florals of gardenia and jasmine. Talk about a feel-good fragrance.

— KD

When it comes to nail polish, browns and deep maroons aren't really my thing. Instead, I'll keep Dior Vernis in Blue Label ($23) on my nails most of this season. The blue has a pretty sheen to it and is just moody enough for a night out on the town.

— MD