10 Best Products To Get Shiny, Healthy Hair, According To An Expert

shiny hair products

One thing I've been up to lately? Endlessly scrolling through tour videos of Sabrina Carpenter, trying to emulate that perfect volume and healthy shine that she has at all times. I mean, you will truly never catch her on a bad hair day. It's always looking perfectly healthy and glossy, and I can't help but envy that seemingly effortless shininess!

Upon reflection of my dried and frizzy ends, I decided to contact Dr. Ross Kopelman, my go-to doctor for all things hair. He gave us his expert advice on what types of products will give you that "Please Please Please" Sabrina Carpenter, healthy hair shine. Keep reading for all of his expert recs, including all the shiny hair products you should get ASAP!

Moisturizing Shampoos and Conditioners

Amazon

Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Shampoo

Dr. Ross says that he always tell his patients to opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that contain hydrating ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and aloe vera. These not only smooth the hair cuticle, but also lock in moisture, which really helps boost shine. This Briogeo option actually contains rice protein which is extremely strengthening for your hair follicles and will help to make it healthier, and give it that shine we want!

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Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo

Another shampoo that will give your hair extreme hydration is this Moroccan Aragon oil shampoo! Dr. Kopelman said we need to look out for argan oil, so it's perfect! This will maintain your hair's healthiness, as well as giving it some extra moisture so you can be looking like Sabrina Carpenter in no time!

Leave-In Conditioners and Serums

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Ouai Leave-In Conditioner

One of Dr. Kopelman's personal favorites for adding shine without weighing hair down is a lightweight leave-in conditioner with keratin or silk proteins. He also recommends serums that contain silicones or dimethicone, as they give hair that instant glossy finish! This one from Ouai will do an amazing just at adding the perfect amount of shine, without weighing it down at all.

Amazon

CHI Keratin Serum

This serum has keratin which Dr. Kopelman told us is the key to soft and smooth hair! This product is phenomenal, because it also has over 15,000 reviews on Amazon raving about how good it is! If that doesn't convince you, then I don't know what will. Alas, reviews do work on me, so I will definitely be adding this one to cart!

Oils

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OGX Argan Oil

One product Dr. Kopelman always recommends? Hair oils! He loves using oils like argan oil, jojoba oil, or marula oil on the ends of the hair to add shine and nourish the scalp. He says that he always remind his clients that a little goes a long way, so they should apply sparingly to avoid weighing their hair down!

Amazon

Kerastase Hair Oil

The reason that this oil is so special is because it's refillable, so you can simply buy the refills each time you run out! Another thing I love about it is that it helps target those with frizzy hair (shoutout to me), which is a gam-changer for healthy-looking and shiny hair! You'll get the Carpenter look with this one, for sure!

Heat Protectant

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Redken Hair Heat Protectant

If you’re someone who uses heat tools, Dr. Kopelman always recommend using a good heat protectant spray. Products with vitamin E or panthenol are ideal for protecting your hair from damage while maintaining that shiny, healthy look! This one is a Redken product which Sabrina Carpenter, herself, is an ambassador for — so you're sure to get her shine with this product!

Amazon

HerStyler Castor Oil Vitamin E Protectant

This heat protectant not only has castor oil in it, but it's also infused with Vitamin E, which Dr. Kopelman said is vital for protecting your hair from damage. Along with protecting from damage, it also soothes and moisturizes any split ends or breakage you may have! Definitely grab this one if you're struggling with dry, or broken hair.

Hair Masks

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Briogeo Deep Conditioning Mask

For deep hydration and shine, Dr. Kopelman always advises using a weekly hair mask that contains biotin, keratin, or amino acids. These masks really help repair damaged hair, keeping it strong and shiny which is just what we're trying to achieve! I've been using Briogeo, myself, for years and love how quickly I see results from their products!

Amazon

Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask

This hydrating hair mask is one of the most popular beauty products for hair on Amazon! So, if you've been wanting to test out a viral product with over 60,000 reviews signing its praises, then this is your chance. For only $12, you can try the popular and hydrating hair mask with argan oil for extra moisture, and obvi some amazing shine!

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TBH, I have a roster of all-star beauty products I swear by. From the best cream blush to the lipstick I can't stop buying, my routine has officially become effortless. But, what if I told you I've been using an eyeliner that'll make you want to part ways with your tried-and-true favorite? And what if I told you it's so inexpensive that you won't believe how well it works?

Since I have your attention, let's have a nice girl-to-girl chat about the best drugstore eyeliner that didn't leak when I boohoo-cried over a movie recently. 👀

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  1. The best drugstore eyeliner: e.l.f. Cosmetics No Budge Retractable Eyeliner
  2. A smudge-proof, felt-tipped favorite: wet n wild Mega Last Breakup Proof Liner
  3. A waterproof wonder: Milani Stay Put Matte Eyeliner
  4. For the more detail-oriented: NYX Epic Ink Liner
  5. A runner-up pencil pick: Maybelline TattooStudio Eyeliner Pencil

Okay, what's the tea on the best eyeliner?

Amazon

The best drugstore eyeliner I've been using is by none other than e.l.f. Cosmetics. I've talked about their amazing Power Grip Primer (a dupe for Milk's Hydro version), but this No Budge Retractable Eyeliner deserves it's own spotlight. I've tried other brands that I thought were good, but a funny incident that counted as an early pregnancy sign is what earned this one's place in makeup kit.

I usually never cry while watching sad movies, but a random movie night in May 2020 ended with me running into the bathroom and bursting into tears over a distressing scene. My fiancé and I were still in the dating phase, so he was confused about what happened, but luckily made sure I was okay. He even commented on the fact that my eyeliner wasn't running down my face which I filed in the back of my mind.

So, how is it so different from other eyeliners you've tried?

Jasmine Williams

I'm glad you asked! e.l.f's No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is considered to be the "ultimate eye pencil" because it's not only waterproof, but it's also retractable. I don't know about you, but I'm not a fan of sharpening eyeliners. It's a personal preference that's led me to something that feels super easy to use.

The other thing I like about it is how smooth it glides onto my water line. I've poked myself in the eye more times than I'd like to admit, but haven't had that problem with this product. It's also incredibly pigmented so I get an amazing color payoff that frames my brown eyes perfectly.

I'm fairly light-handed while applying it because I love a 'softer' look, but you can apply as much pressure as you're comfortable with!

You know I have to ask: how do other customers feel about the best drugstore eyeliner?

Amazon

With other 22,000 reviews on Amazon, this eyeliner has a 4.4 rating where over half of the reviews have given it 5 stars. Why?

  • "I love with this eyeliner that it can be a very thin line or a heavy line. You can smudge it and make it very soft. It's very very workable and I love it!"
  • "This is very easy to use. It's reasonably priced and I can't tell that it's a cheaper product than those you would find at Sephora. I will definitely be purchasing again."
  • "As a 77 year old woman, eye area can be sensitive and I like this eyeliner because it is a softer texture and does not make me stretch my eyes"
  • "For a few dollars, I purchased the Elf eyeliner and it is marvelous! It has the richest pigment! Truly, it is a ten, and 'less than ten dollars' and most importantly, cruelty-free!"
  • "I finally found an eyeliner that doesn't smudge ! I have hooded eyelids and really struggle with makeup coming off because of the way my eyes are shaped. I wore this eyeliner for a wedding and I didn't have any smears! I loved the color too."
  • "Love this Eyeliner! It's perfect and lasts a long time. My new favorite. My other go-tos were letting me down. This is perfect! Goes on smooth, lasts all day, looks good. Worth it!"

Shop The Best Drugstore Eyeliner Here!

Amazon

The best drugstore eyeliner: e.l.f. Cosmetics No Budge Retractable Eyeliner

Hopefully the above raving sealed the deal for you on this amazing eyeliner!

More Drugstore Eyeliners I Recommend & Why

Amazon

A smudge-proof, felt-tipped favorite: wet n wild Mega Last Breakup Proof Liner

If I wasn't such a fan of a pencil formula, this breakup proof liner would be my go-to. Someone on wet n wild's marketing team knows breakups and tears go together like two peas in a pod so why not create something that's smudge-proof? You won't experience any flaking or cracking with this product either, just 16 pure hours of sharp lines that could do damage if your ex dared to look in your eyes.

Amazon

A waterproof wonder: Milani Stay Put Matte Eyeliner

This eyeliner's bottle lets you know how long you'll be able to wear it which is an added bonus IMO. There's up to 17 hours of waterproof liquid-to-matte formula in this teeny bottle which says a lot. Ever heard of the saying, "Big things come in small packages?" If not, meet the eyeliner that proves how accurate this statement is.

Amazon

For the more detail-oriented: NYX Epic Ink Liner

Waterproof and liquid liner may not sound like they go together, but NYX has taken great care to make sure they do. Most customers on Amazon end up keeping it which lets you know how good it is, but I don't mind convincing you a little more.

It has a precise tip to help you achieve the cat eye you've been trying to master for years and dries to a matte finish. Just be mindful not to poke yourself in the eye because it's not as forgiving as a pencil formula!

Amazon

A runner-up pencil pick: Maybelline TattooStudio Eyeliner Pencil

Clearly I just said I don't prefer eyeliners that to be sharpened, but I'll only make an exception if the pencil doesn't have a sharp point in the package. You'll still get the same smooth application as e.l.f's No Budge version, but Maybelline promises to give you up to 36 hours of wear with this product. I haven't worn makeup beyond 24 hours so I can't vouch for that, but it lasts throughout a school or work day.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

I love me some shoes – my closet can attest to it. And though my trusty (and timeless!) New Balance 530s and Adidas sneaks see plenty of daily wear, I'm really looking forward to a whole new season to introduce some new shoe trends to refresh my personal style!

This winter's shoe trends fill in the gaps that the shoes of summer and fall failed to in terms of function. Several of the shoe trends on this list – other than being cute AF – prioritize warmth and provide dry respite from the season's snows.

Of course, it wouldn't be winter without some good boots. In addition to playful slouchy styles, moto boots are definitely on this season's roster. I'm also thrilled about some newer riffs on ballet flats, loafers, and slippers that gained tons of traction over the past year. If you're looking to step up your shoe game for the final bits of 2024, look no further than these shoe trends that'll fit right in with your winter wardrobe!

Scroll on for the hottest winter shoe trends for 2024!

1. Slouchy Boots

Take a page from Charli XCX's style book with some slouchy boots this winter. This shoe trend has roots that go back to the '80s, but you can absolutely rock them with some modern flair.

Banana Republic Factory

Banana Republic Factory Vegan Tall Slouch Boots

A sleek black pair of boots like these are easily wearable with everything from maxi skirts and dresses, to jeans and jorts. I like that the slouch here is a bit more understated, though you can definitely find styles that are way more exaggerated. Jennifer Lopez recently rocked a statement trench coat with her slouchy boots, and the look's living in my head rent-free.

Free People

Free People Extra Slouch Boots

Remember what I said about exaggerated? This is what I was talkin' about. These suede boots from Free People embrace folds on folds, bringing an interesting bit of texture to this boho-leaning look. The pointed toe and stitch work throughout also give this pair some nice Western flair.

Steve Madden

Steve Madden Smith Red Leather Boots

Another fun iteration of slouchy boots you can wear this winter is the foldover boot. Though smoother, you still get quite the unique silhouette! These red boots were simply made to be seen.

2. Tall Moto Boots

Moto boots are the winter shoe trend to snag if you like your outfits to have a some edge. What sets them apart from a regular ol' boot is typically the hardware visible on the sides and a chunky heel that can withstand wear.

Nordstrom

Maguire Lucca Boots

These are extremely reminiscent of the famous Frye Campus boots, especially in color. The harness gives them a good biker edge, though you can also choose to remove it based on your mood. Since most moto boots hit right under the knee, they work just as well with mini dresses as they do wide-leg jeans.

Anthropologie

Ash Trinidad Boots

Black pairs with everything, plus the darker color adds a good amount of mystery to any moto-inspired winter look. I'd rock these with some vintage jeans and a warm, chunky sweater. Bonus points for a vampy makeup look.

Steve Madden

Steve Madden Ruskin Chestnut Suede Boots

Suede is undoubtedly one of the main stars in this winter's shoe trends, no matter what kind of shoe it's featured on. The more you wear these, the more character the suede takes on. It's a win-win.

3. Pointy Flats

Let's get straight to the point: pointed toes are in. They're perfectly fierce and feisty – I think they're the ultimate style for happy hours or nights out with the gals. You can shop all kinds of shoes with pointed toes, like boots, booties, and kitten heels, but pointy ballet flats are truly where it's at if your main consideration is comfort.

Nordstrom

Linea Paolo Noella Flats

The lace-up bow styling and dotted trim on these flats give 'em the cutest coquette vibe.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Lilly Buckle Slingback Flats

For an edgier take, these slingback flats boast some real eye-catching buckles. Pair them with some baggy jeans, a basic tee, and a chore jacket to totally nail all of this year's fashion trends.

Nordstrom

Jeffrey Campbell Pistil Pointed Toe Flats

These flats are iconic not only in shape, but in color, too. Brighten up the drab winter season with this playful burst of yellow! I promise you won't regret it.

4. Platform Mocaasins

You have the Clarks Wallabees to thank for the resurgence of moccasins this season. I personally adore them for their standout silhouette, and it's only a bonus that they're uber-comfortable for the cold temps! Moccasins come in many different styles across the brands we love, listed below.

Free People

Clarks Wallabee Boots

These booties are perfect for laid-back winter outings. Pop on a pair of jeans and your go-to cold weather layers, and you're ready to conquer anything – in style.

SeaVees

SeaVees Hayward Platforms

The contrast between these shoes' upper and lower halves is so cute to me. They were purposefully designed to be part-sneaker, part-loafer, so you can easily dress them up or down based on the day.

UGG

UGG Women's Disquette Alpine Slippers

Though more of a slipper, these UGGs still retain a ton of classic moccasin details. The laces and stitching are a dead giveaway, plus you get to enjoy the comfort of a slipper (thanks to the lining) without them wearing out super quick (just look at that thick outsole)!

5. Burgundy Loafers

Burgundy (AKA dark cherry red) proved to be one of 2024's hottest colors across all sectors of fashion. Thus, it's no surprise that it's been creeping its way towards footwear! Burgundy is quite the sophisticated color, finding its match with an equally sophisticated shoe style: loafers.

DSW

Mia Amore Hali Penny Loafers

Though more polished, you can still wear loafers casually with jeans and graphic tees. I think they look best when you have a basic sock on, too.

Dr. Martens

Dr. Martens Adrian Snaffle Pebble Grain Leather Kiltie Loafers

The burgundy color trend also gives you the perfect opportunity to work in a pop of color to your wardrobe without going too bold, if you're not really ready to invest in brights (or if they're just simply not your thing).

Steve Madden

Steve Madden Madison Burgundy Box Leather Loafers

You can literally put some prep in your step with these classic leather loafers.

6. Fur-Lined

Peeps of fur (or preferably, faux fur) are this winter's final prominent shoe trend, mostly thanks to the UGG brand's signature faux sheepskin lining. These styles are undeniably cozy and functional for providing all the warmth your feet need this season.

UGG

UGG Classic Chillapeak Boots

Boosted with furry texture and height from the platform soles, these UGGs are perfect for wearing aprés ski or just on those bone-chilling cold days in the city.

Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Hilfiger Lined Lace-Up Snow Boots

These lined boots were specifically made to stand up to snow, but still look so stylish. I love the crossing laces and suede paneling on the sides that make them feel more a tad more upscale!

Nordstrom

UGG New Heights Genuine Shearling Cuffable Boots

You can wear these rolled up or cuffed down to show off more of the soft shearling lining. I love that these UGGs push past the brand's typical look with a funky curved footbed and chunky sole.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

About 50% of us are born with a genetic predisposition to dandruff, but that doesn’t make it any less annoying. There is a pretty easy fix, though. The best way to combat the flakiness, dryness, and itchiness that comes along with dandruff is – unsurprisingly – to use an effective anti-dandruff shampoo.

Let's dive into the best anti-dandruff shampoos loved by experts to treat flaky, dry, itchy scalps.

A peek at the top 5 anti-dandruff shampoos:

Jill Burrow / PEXELS

Why anti-dandruff shampoo?

Sarah Chai / PEXELS

“Consistent use of anti-dandruff shampoos is critical to treating dandruff,” saysDr. Chris Tomassian, Board Certified Dermatologist and Head & Shoulders Partner. “Not only do you have to consistently use them to be effective, you also have to leave them on the scalp for several minutes for the best result.”

What causes dandruff?

Oleskandra Biliak / PEXELS

To get real nerdy about it, dandruff is caused by a few factors: naturally-produced sebum, a microbe called Malassezia globosa (a type of yeast that thrives on the scalp), and genetics. It’s a common misconception that dandruff is caused by poor hygiene, which is “very far from true,” according to Dr. Tomassian. Dandruff can happen to anyone – it doesn’t discriminate!

What are the symptoms of dandruff?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

Symptoms of dandruff aren't limited to just flaking. Dandruff is also inclusive of other symptoms like dryness, redness, itchiness, and irritation. You may also notice especially dry hair strands or, in severe cases, shedding. So, even if you aren’t seeing flakes, treating your irritated scalp with a reliable anti-dandruff shampoo can be extremely beneficial.

What should I look for in an anti-dandruff shampoo?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

The top active ingredients to look for in an anti-dandruff shampoo, recommended by Dr. Tomassain, are zinc pyrithione (ZPT), selenium sulfide, and ketoconazole. ZPT is anti-inflammatory and essential for controlling the growth of Malassezia globosa, while Selenium Sulfide and Ketoconazole carry antifungal properties to target dandruff.

The Top 5 Anti-Dandruff Shampoos Of 2024

Amazon

Best zinc pyrithione formula: Jupiter Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Pros: Clean ingredients, hydrating

Cons: On the expensive side at $30

Promising review: "After just one use, I noticed a remarkable difference. Not only did it balance and calm my oily and itchy scalp, but it also eliminated any trace of dandruff. Furthermore, it effectively controlled oil production, moisturized dry and irritated areas of my scalp, and alleviated itching and flaking. This shampoo made my scalp feel incredibly clean, healthy and rejuvenated."

Amazon

Best selenium sulfide formula: Vichy Selenium Sulfide Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Pros: Good for sensitive scalps, friendly on color-treated hair

Cons: On the expensive side at $29

Promising review: "Finally a shampoo I can use and feel like I didn't just dump a table spoon of goop on my head. First off, I was impressed with the smell which is so nice like the ones they use in a salon, but not overwhelming. Normally the anti dandruff shampoos I've used is thick and smells like laundry softener. I was able to use half the amount too. It lathered up nicely and I didn't have any issues with rinsing it out of my hair. Afterwards, after drying my hair, my hair felt smooth. After using it for a week, I noticed that my scalp stopped itching."

Amazon

Best ketoconazole formula: Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Pros: Gets to the root of dandruff, clinically proven

Cons: Can be drying with very consistent (every day) use

Promising review: "The shampoo has a fresh, pleasant scent that makes my hair smell clean without being overpowering. I also appreciate that it lathers well and rinses out easily, leaving my hair feeling soft and manageable. It’s a bit pricier than regular shampoos, but it's worth it for the results. Highly recommend for anyone dealing with dandruff!"

Amazon

Best gentle formula: Head & Shoulders BARE Dandruff Shampoo

Pros: Minimal additives, hydrating, eco-friendly packaging

Cons: Longer rinse time

Promising review: “If you are looking for an anti dandruff shampoo that is not harsh on the scalp, I constantly recommend Head & Shoulders BARE," says Dr. Tomassian. "It's an effective yet simple formula with nine working ingredients, including the dandruff-fighting active zinc pyrithione (ZPT), so your dandruff will be controlled and you’ll still have a moisturized scalp.”

Amazon

Best clinical strength formula: Selsun Blue Moisturizing Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Pros: Clean formula (no SLS, parabens, phosphates, and phthalates), hydrating

Cons: Strong scent

Promising review: "What I love most about Selsun Blue is its reliability. Over the years, I’ve tried various other brands and products, but I always return to this one. The shampoo has a pleasant scent that isn’t overpowering, and it lathers well, ensuring that my hair and scalp are thoroughly cleaned. Even during harsh winter months, when my dandruff tends to worsen, Selsun Blue keeps it under control. I’ve recommended this shampoo to friends and family, and they’ve all experienced similar positive results."

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Take our favorite celebrity BFF's, Taylor Swift and Blake Lively, and our favorite celebrity couple, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, and you truly get one big happy family. Earlier this summer, Blake and Ryan showed up to the Eras Tour to support the "Fortnight" singer, and on July 25, Taylor returned the love by making a rare lengthy post to her Instagram story.

Here's everything you need to know about Taylor Swift's relationship with Blake Lively's kids as their godmother.

Taylor Swift/Instagram

Taylor Swift posted a photo to her Instagram story featuring Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Shawn Levy — all of whom are involved in Deadpool & Wolverine, in theaters July 26!

"Over the past few years I have watched one of my best friends on the planet pour every bit of his heart, soul, sweat, time, energy, jokes, pain, joy, rebellion, darkness, and magic into this film," she says. "He's created the best work of his life, and this film feels like an actual joy portal, a wild escape from reality, and an abs sandwich."

After joking that Ryan, Blake, and Shawn randomly crashed her photo, Taylor continues, saying, "Shout out to Wade Wilson [the character played by Ryan Reynolds], aka my godkids' sperm donor!"

Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Fast Company

Ryan Reynolds had the funniest reaction, and told Deadline, "I'm going to need that on my gravestone, actually."

"Yeah, that is kind of it. She is the godparent to my daughters," the Deadpool actor continued. "That was very sweet. Not just sweet, that was, like, you could probably quantify a box office based on Taylor just doing something like that."

Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management/Noam Galai/Getty Images for Disney

In the past, Ryan Reynolds has been vocal about how much his kids (James, Inez, Betty, and Olin) love Taylor Swift, and the family's appearance at the Eras Tour even went viral!

"I think what's most exciting for them is that for the longest time they just thought Taylor's just like an aunt, like a friend of Mommy and Daddy that's very, very close, almost family," he says onThe Jess Cagle Show. "And then they went to a concert one day and were like, 'Ohhhhh, this isn't a hobby.'"

Read up on Blake Lively and Taylor Swift's friendship timeline for more!

Lead image via Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

Holidays are a 1000 times better with kids. From baking holiday treats together to getting in the spirit with DIY holiday decorations, everything about the festive season is new and exciting as they wait for the big day to arrive. My daughter recently turned 10 and there have been so many wins (and a few duds) under the tree that I thought I'd share our favorite gifts over the years (that are great for *all* kids, not just girls). From interactive toys to educational kits to gifts that will get them away from screens and excited for the outdoors, these unique gifts will inspire creativity and spark their imaginations while being totally fun too!

Woom Bike

My daughter has grown up with these bikes, from the Balance Bike to the Explore Bike with disc brakes, 7 gears and all-terrain tires, and she LOVES them. They're super light and glide easily, even the kickstand is so smooth. Woom Bikes are designed specifically for kids at every stage. They are pricier than other bike brands, but I find that they resell very quickly at a high price point so you essentially get your money back. Choose from an variety of colors and levels, and they even have a warehouse option for gently used Wooms.

Micro Kickboard Foldable LED Scooter

This is on our holiday wish list because my friend and her son love them so much. These scooters are Swiss-designed, three-wheeled, lightweight and durable enough for well kids. They conveniently fold for easy carrying and perfect for traveling and on-the-go and when your kiddo doesn't feel like walking (but you do).

Yoto Mini

For your future podcaster, this cute, compact audio player plays stories, music, and educational tracks. Kids just pop in a card for what they want to listen too and they can use it with or without headphones. It's great for long car rides!

Ravine Cooperative Game

This game says 12+ but we've enjoyed it at 7+. This hilarious game is set in the woods and you need to survive together with firewood, shelter, spears, and forest food while keeping your wits! It's great to bring along on a camping trip!

Hey Clay Bugs

Bug lovers can make cute clay bugs with 18 different colors of clay using an interactive app that shows kid-friendly step-by-step instructions. Think spiders, caterpillars, a praying mantis, snail, ladybug, and dragonfly to spark imaginations and build fine motor skills/spatial reasoning. Clay is nontoxic, wheat and gluten-free, nut-free, latex-free, and won't stick to hands.

Habbi Habbi Wand + Bilingual Flashcards

Expose the kid in your life to new languages like Chinese and Spanish with these fun kits. My daughter has learned a few Spanish words from this game, and she still loves it. The magnetic wand reads the words as kids read along with visual cues.

Etsy Wooden Slingshot

We love a good old-timey gift with a modern edge. These handmade wooden slingshots are perfect for any kid who loves to get outside and play, no matter what the weather. Each slingshot comes with 20 colorful felt balls for gentle play.

ROBUD Kids Explorer Kit & Bug Catcher Kit

Get them outdoors and exploring year-round with this magnifying glass, net, and bug exploration kit with carry bag. It has everything kids need to immerse themselves in exciting outdoor exploration.

We Are in an ACT-ivity Book!

For kids and parents who love the ELEPHANT & PIGGIE books as much as we do, these activity books are so much fun! My daughter loved his original We Are In An Art-ivity Book, which not only teaches so much about art but also encourages kids to create their own art show. In this theatrical event, readers discover how to be a set builder, prop maker, costume designer, playwright, and star of their own show.

3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set

Get kids interested in 3D printing and creating 3D art with this pen set designed with no hot parts, completely safe for kids aged 6+.

Mini Explorer Voice Changer

Kids can transform their voice with four hilarious voice-changing modes – Alien, Ghost, Monster, and Robot.

Rainbow Joy Potion Kit

Kids are natural mad scientists and love to experiment, making this potion kit a kid pleaser every time.

Zoom, Ooze & Explore Ultimate Science Lab

Budding scientists will have fun while learning to hypothesize, measure, mix and observe through these 15+ creative science experiments. Best for ages 8 and up.

FAO Schwarz Toy DIY Ultimate Slime Kit

This is perfect for kids who love to get their hands dirty in a fun, tactile, science-y way.

Kidamento Bear Digital Camera

This toy digital camera offers features like filters and frames, face recognition, a selfie timer and burst mode, plus an HD video option.

Mindware Pattern Play Puzzle

You know a good gift when the parents want to play too. These beautifully designed puzzles are perfect for building problem solving skills and creating artful displays. Kids follow one of the 40 pattern cards to design the brightly-colored blocks into varying motifs. The blocks can also be used to create endless freeform designs - so fun!

Toy Market Cart by Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

This cart can be anything your kid's imagination desires: a lemonade stand, a birthday cart, an advice stand a la Charlie Brown? It comes with open drawers in the back and a black board to name their business.

Mindware Colored Pencil Set

For the budding artist, this beautiful case of 36 already-sharpened colored pencils is a great gift for kids who love to color and create. The mix of classic colors and fresh hues makes all the kid drawings frame-worthy. Adults will love them too!

Personalized Afternoon Tea Set

We've had so much pretend tea over the years and I can't get enough over this customized tea set, including cake stand, cupcakes, and cake slices to share with friends, family, and dolls! ADORABLE.

Swingly Doorway Storefronts

These cute doorway storefronts are perfect for pretend play and performance play. My daughter uses them for puppet theatre and I've hung one where I door used to be in our hallway closet. Choose from a camper food truck to a Boba tea house to a farmer's market for your kidpreneur. Swingly helps parents create play spaces that inspire kids to think creatively and grow through entrepreneurial play.

Brown Toy Box

I'm a big fan of this brand and the woman behind it. Founded by a mom of four who wanted to see more representation in STEAM early development, this fun activity kit lets kids learn about coding and app development in an age-appropriate and culturally representative way.

Melissa & Doug Ice Cream Counter

We've ordered scoops and scoops of faux ice cream over the years and this one is delicious!

Little Lady Classic Collection Kit

Create a mini nail salon at home. Mani/pedis are one of our favorite things to do on a rainy day. Pick up these darling 7-free polishes for your next salon-at-home day. The bow is actually a ring they can wear post pampering! Vegan and cruelty-free too.

Play Mixer Kitchen Set

Littles can play chef or mimic mom and dad with this adorable (and affordable) wooden stand mixer. Rotatable beaters, a swiveling mixer head, and on-and-off button create an experience like a real mixer. This one's a fun add to any play kitchen!

Green Toys Tugboat

Bath toys are the best toys for bath, beach, muddy puddles, even snow! This floaty toy is made from 100% recycled plastic milk containers and safe for your little captain. No BPA, phthalates, or PVC. Mother Earth will thank you!

Paint By Sticker Kids: Outer Space

We are obsessed with these Paint by Sticker books as much as the kiddos in our life. From Outer Space to Mermaids & Magic, there's a theme for every kid passion. Get in a meditative zone with your little bud and choose from 10 sticker paintings, like a Mars rover, a space shuttle, and celestial bodies like Saturn, Jupiter, and the Sun. Plus, the back of each image includes a fascinating scientific fact *and* kids score glow-in-the-dark stickers!

Melissa & Doug Pet Vet Clinic

Kids love to play animal doctor and this set with a plush dog and cat, pretend play vet medical equipment, and a tote bag is perfect for all their veterinarian dreams.

Outfoxed Cooperative Board Game

Get the whole family a gift with this cooperative whodunit game for ages 5 and up. A wily fox has stolen Mrs. Plumpert's pot pie and is high-tailing it to the foxhole! You'll work together to gather clues and eliminate possible suspects. Figure out who is the guilty fox before they escape!

Surprise Ride Make a Model Plane Activity Kit

Aviation fans can make a model airplane while learning about Amelia Earhart with this fun kit. The 40-page book features a short story, facts and jokes about Earhart and aviation, along with a biplane wood model kit, art supplies, and a disposable apron.

Create Your Bright ideas Book

This interactive book written by our pal Jess Ekstrom is perfect for creative tweens and teens who want to be inspired to make a difference in the world.

Check out our Gingerbread Decorating Class to share with kids and subscribe to our email newsletter for more holiday gifting ideas. Follow us on Pinterest too for tons of holiday decor and recipe inspiration!

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