As a beauty editor with a passion for books, here are 13 stylish coffee table books filled with inspiration.

      (Image credit: Amazon; Assouline)

      Throughout my journey as a beauty editor, there have been defining moments that shaped my experiences. One significant moment was trying my first luxury perfume, a product I had frequently seen in my mother's bathroom during my childhood. Another emotional experience stemmed from my love of literature; I received a book on Black Hollywood beauty for my birthday while living near the iconic Hollywood sign and studio lots, where many of my favorite beauty icons made history on screen. This book not only sparked endless inspiration from its beautiful images but also introduced me to the stories of the individuals who influenced my style. Since then, I’ve been on the lookout for coffee table books on beauty that I can proudly showcase in my home. Across the three apartments I've inhabited since 2020, I've displayed my favorite beauty books on wood, marble, and glass coffee tables, each reflecting different periods of my life. I've even contributed to a book by Who What Wear in honor of our Beauty Awards. Curious about the books I can’t stop raving about? Keep reading to discover the 13 I would purchase if I didn’t already own them or have them on my wishlist for my next bookstore visit.

      (Image credit: Courtesy of Jamie Schneider) The Best Beauty Coffee Table Books, Catalogued Best Skincare Read: The Ordinary: Ingredients Best Fragrance Read: Guerlain: Visionary Since 1828 Best Makeup Read: Estée Lauder: A Beautiful Life Best Wellness Read: The Sporty & Rich Wellness Book Volume 1

      The Ordinary

      **The Ordinary: Ingredients**

      This book delves deep into the active components found in The Ordinary's formulas, featuring insights from the scientists behind the brand. Launched in 2016 with the goal of "rejecting the status quo in favor of authenticity and integrity," it explains how they achieved this vision.

      Aerin and Jane Lauder

      **Estée Lauder**

      Presented through personal letters, family photos, company archives, and more, *Estée Lauder: A Beautiful Life* tells the inspiring story of entrepreneur, matriarch, innovator, and visionary Estée Lauder, as recounted by her granddaughters Aerin and Jane Lauder. Readers gain a rich understanding of how Lauder built her cosmetic empire while nurturing a fulfilling family life. The stunning book features a silk hardcover designed for display.

      Nichelle Gainer

      **Vintage Black Glamour**

      I received this book as a gift while living in Los Angeles a few years back, rekindling my passion for Black Hollywood glamour. *Vintage Black Glamour* serves as a true testament to the beauty of some of Hollywood's most famous faces from its golden age, sharing rarely seen photographs of Black actors, models, writers, and entertainers alongside detailed profiles of Eartha Kitt, Diana Ross, Josephine Baker, and more.

      Michelle Wong

      **The Science of Beauty**

      While shopping for new skincare products can be exciting, it often feels daunting if you're unsure what to include in your routine. In *The Science of Beauty*, cosmetic chemist and content creator Michelle Wong, PhD, addresses hundreds of common questions within the skincare and beauty realm, complementing her responses with helpful infographics and the latest findings.

      Guerlain has a storied legacy in the fragrance world, with its iconic Flacon Abeilles, or Bee Bottle, boasting its own history. This book commemorates its 170th anniversary as a symbol of craftsmanship, featuring illuminating text by author Laurence Benaïm, paired with historical and modern imagery. It serves as a perfect introduction to the perfume and cosmetic house for enthusiasts or anyone captivated by exquisite fragrances.

      For those curious about how Byredo crafts its popular fragrances (which have been praised by Who What Wear over the years), this coffee table book is a must-have. In it, Theresa Müller shares the story of how creative director and former professional basketball player Ben Gorham founded Byredo in 2006, discussing the brand's unique philosophy, niche scents, and its notable ventures into candles, and more.

      Emily Oberg

      **The Sporty & Rich Wellness Book**

      Written by Sporty & Rich founder Emily Oberg, this book contains interviews, articles, and essays on health, skin, nutrition, fitness, and more. It features insights from leading health experts and addresses topics ranging from the significance of a balanced diet to establishing an effective skincare routine, complete with helpful fundamentals. Original imagery by Purienne and Yana Shept enhances its appeal.

      You may have heard growing up to eat your greens for strength, but did you realize that your diet also impacts skin health? In *Eat Beautiful*, London-based makeup artist and beauty expert Wendy Rowe illustrates how to nourish your skin with over 70 delightful recipes and practical beauty tips to help maintain a radiant complexion.

      Anne Berest, Fabienne Reybaud, and Marion Vignal

      **Chanel 3-Book Slipcase**

      A collection of