Whether it's homemade body lotions (that may or may not produce rashes) or expensive facial masks (that may or may not deliver softness), I've tested my fair share of beauty products. And I've become downright picky about what goes on my body. So to help you get ready for gift-buying and stocking-stuffing season, I've prepared my personal list of Top 10 favorites.

Freckle Bear Lavender Soap
Handmade by Upper Arlington mother Cheryl Olshove (who grows the lavender on her Urbana farm), this olive oil soap is packed with lavender buds and organic oatmeal that offer a gentle exfoliation and divine scent. Rich, creamy and fabulous.
$7 at www.frecklebear.com

Tweezerman Slant Tweezer
Try this--with its exceptionally precise tips that make eyebrow plucking a breeze--and you may never use another. Your brows will thank you.
$20 at Bed, Bath & Beyond

Pangea Organics Egyptian Basil & Mint Hand & Body Lotion
This lotion, packed with good-for-you ingredients, is lightweight and silky. Ideal on legs just before bed. 
$18 at Generation Green, 6375 Sawmill Rd., Dublin

Aveda Active Composition Oil
This menthol and wintergreen oil soothes muscles almost immediately, providing a warming sensation that is nothing short of divine. Even better if you can get someone else to rub it on.
$21 at Phia Salon, 771 N. High St., Short North

Thymes Essentials Face Wash & Face Lotion with SPF 20
These paraben-free formulas are simple and gentle, yet keep my face clean, clear and smooth. Perfect for daily use.
$20 & $24 at The Tortoise Shell, 2068 Arlington Ave., Upper Arlington

Aveda Nourish-Mint Renewing Lip Treatment
This colorless lip conditioner boasts a sensual, smoothing effect with a subtle spearmint flavor--and without stickiness. ChapStick gone chic.
$15 at Simpure Salon Spa, 4355 W. Dublin Granville Rd., Dublin

Microplane Foot File
Unlike other foot files that seem to sand or buff, this actually shaves off calluses and other unwanted skin--and not in the sometimes-painful way other "skin peelers" do. Near-pedicure results in minutes.
$22 at Papillon Day Spa, inside the Hilton at Polaris
 
Venus Embrace Razor
The five curve-hugging blades surrounded by moisture strips do for me what no other razor has achieved: They actually rid my knees of hair without drawing blood. Could "life-changing" be an overstatement?
$8 at Target

Erno Laszlo Beta Mask
Spread this gooey detoxifying mask onto your face, give it 10 minutes to dry and harden and--holy detoxification!--it's as if you've visited a spa. It sucks oil, reduces redness and leaves skin soft and fabulous. A lovely way to spoil yourself (and your face).
$48 for box of six packets at www.ernolaszlo.com