Buzz
This holiday season, treat someone to the gift of true relaxation—don’t settle for a basic lotion gift. While we’re grateful, is there anything more uninspired than receiving yet another gift basket filled with lotion and a loofah? There's a better way to offer thoughtful, cool self-care gifts that are both relaxing and practical. Here are some ideas to consider.
Top Choices for Skincare Gifts
On social media, 'self-care' and 'skincare' often go hand in hand. The good news is, there are so many small gadgets and skincare tools out there, making them perfect gifts for anyone looking to elevate their skincare routine.
Depuffing items make great affordable stocking stuffers. I've been on a depuffing spree lately and regularly use these three: freeze and rub globes on your face ($12.98), a gua sha tool ($7.99), and a gel mask that can be chilled ($8.59).
The NuFace MINI+ ($175) is still a highly desired gift. It uses microcurrents to tighten and lift skin, plus it’s cool and tech-savvy. However, I’ve had better results with a competitor that’s $5 cheaper: the MyoLift QT Plus ($170). It also uses microcurrent technology, but with some added features: it connects to a phone app that provides face analysis and guidance during treatments and includes pads that you stick on your face, so you don’t even have to manually apply the current yourself. After consistent use, I’ve noticed some tightening and a glow to my skin.
Giving chemical skincare can be tricky, as it might imply there's something wrong with the person's skin. Avoid that awkwardness with a set of sheet masks, like the Tony Moly All You Need pack ($25). I've trusted Tony Moly for 10 years, and their products work much better than others. Their caffeinated mask is particularly great for—you guessed it—depuffing.
Sheet masks are easy to use, but under-eye patches are even easier. I’ve switched to the Peauamie multipack, which gives you 30 pairs for $12.99. The variety pack addresses different concerns, and I use them religiously. A perfect gift.
As mentioned, chemical skincare can be risky, but one category is always appreciated: products that hydrate and enhance skin texture and glow. I always keep a COSRX Favorites set ($36) handy. It includes cleanser, toner, snail mucin (gross but effective!), and moisturizer. Nothing offensive there. Tip: I often find this set for about $16 at Marshalls, so you might get it cheaper in-store.
Top Gifts for True Relaxation
To fully unwind, there’s no such thing as too many relaxation tools. It’s just how we live—our materialistic society demands that relaxing from the grind of capitalism requires, well...stuff.
Shower steamers are fantastic because their only purpose is to help you relax. They're like bath bombs but designed for the shower, releasing calming scents. They're simple and make a great stocking stuffer. You can find seven for $9.99 at Target. I use them quickly!
A random candle from the impulse aisle at TJMaxx says you didn’t put much thought into your gift. But a stylish candle? That’s different. Homesick candles ($28.50 and up) are popular, as are birthdate candles ($48.99) and the classic Maison Margiela Replica candles ($70). For a guaranteed win, go with a Diptyque candle ($45 or $74, depending on size).
Everyone loves the Comfy ($49.99), an enormous sweatshirt made from blanket material that’s perfect for lounging around the house in pure relaxation.
If you’re looking for a proven option, a massage gun is a classic, but make sure to go big: Homedics offers a heated one for $49.99.
