The in-the-know gift this holiday season? Advent calendars. A gift of more gifts, advent calendars are the ultimate unboxing experience, where treasure hunters can unwrap a different surprise each day.
This season, beauty fans can get their hands on full-size and mini-versions of all the top-shelf skincare finds and signature-worthy scents — all boxed as an advent calendar. Ranging from 12 to more than 15 curated products in each calendar, they're an excellent option for those who love a particular brand.
With that in mind, we turned to Macy Siddiqi, PA-C at Skin Pharm in Houston, for where to find the best beauty advent calendars. Siddiqi has considerable experience with products, having worked in dermatology and plastic surgery.
Siddiqi says she loves advent calendars because they are a gateway to exploring a variety of products before committing to the full-size version, and some are so irresistible she is often tempted to buy two (we're looking at you, Diptyque).
Pro-tip for the novice advent calendar shopper: don't delay. These gift sets are hot commodities and are flying off the shelves. From best-selling products to perfumes, lipsticks, and everything in between, here are five advent calendars to buy this season.
Apotheke 25 Piece Advent Calendar
Why we love it: A fragrance lover's dream. You can fill each day with a different candle or diffuser or with accessories like a candle trimmer and match set. Snag one online or at Crate & Barrel – the celestial design of the box is also very aesthetic for displaying at home.
This advent calendar fills each day with candles, diffusers, and limited-edition accessories.Photo by Apotheke
Bobbi Brown 12 Days of Glow Best Sellers Advent Calendar
Why we love it: This is the cutest advent calendar because it is shaped like an ornament, and it is brimming with all of Bobbi Brown's best products. An Ulta Beauty staple, it is a great way to try new products before buying the full-sized version.
Bobbi Brown's gift-worthy 12 Days of Glow Bestsellers Advent Calendar holiday set is stocked with 12 glowing, bestselling skincare and makeup essentials, including 3 full-size favorites.Photo by Bobbi Brown Cosmetics
Diptyque Paris Advent Calendar - 25 Scented Treasures
Photo by Diptyque Paris
Diptyque Paris candles are a divine advent gift. Photo by Diptyque Paris
Why we love it: Just walking past a Diptyque store, you know their candles are heavenly. Available in their River Oaks District boutique, their advent calendar is a stunning option because it comes with candles, perfumes, Eau de toilettes, shower oils, soaps, and lotions.
Mac Cosmetics Frosted Frenzy Advent Calendar
Why we love it: Mac lipsticks have proven time and time again to be incredibly reliable, blendable, and so, so pigmented. Mac's advent calendar, available at their outposts in the Galleria, Memorial City Mall, and Rice Village, is lip and lipstick-heavy, which is exciting. This advent calendar has everything — from eyeshadow and mascara to liners and lip gloss.
A limited-edition holiday Advent calendar with 24 mini and major surprises to unbox daily, featuring best-selling products and all-new shades.Photo by Mac Cosmetics
Why we love it: For all the women who love anything skin care, and everything curated, this advent calendar allows people to try medical-grade products while also enjoying more playful items like eye patches, hand creams, and a mini candle. This an excellent online-only option for someone who wants to get their skin care regimen going but doesn't know where to start — plus the chance to win a $500 gift card.
A limited-edition advent calendar complete with 12 days of skin care surprises — full-size products, samples and other accessories to complement your routine.Photo by Skin Pharm
Polished headbands and statement accessories with a timeless twist.Photo courtesy of Lele Sadoughi
Sleek, small-frame sunglasses that channel effortless ’90s cool.Photo courtesy of Krewe
Delicate jewelry and one-of-a-kind pieces for everyday minimalism.Photo courtesy of Fly High Little Bunny/Instagram 
Understated luxury handbags with clean lines and quiet sophistication.Photo courtesy of Moreau Paris 
Classic denim fits and elevated staples for a polished, everyday look.Photo courtesy of DL1961
Tailored essentials, including the perfect crisp white button-down.Photo courtesy of Alchemia 
Easy, versatile pieces like midi skirts that work season after season.Photo courtesy of Frock Shop 
Low-key grooming and fragrance for a naturally polished finish.Photo courtesy of Kiehl's 