In my previous entry, I shared my favorite gift ideas for under $50. Now, let's take a look at some positively decadent treats that cost just a little more, but will put a big smile on anyone's face:
- Sure, you might not give face and eye cream to just anyone - but for a close friend or a true skin care maven, there's no better gift! Consider some of my personal favorites: NIA24 Intensive Recovery Complex ($85) includes a niacin derivative (niacinamide) that helps prevent skin aging and decreases sun spots. Topix Replenix Cream CF ($60) contains high levels of antioxidant green tea, and is a wonderful anti-aging option for anyone with dry or sensitive skin. Relastin Eye Silk ($69) has quickly become my absolute favorite eye cream. It stimulates the skin to produce more elastin, and can actually tighten droopy skin around the eyes and improve dark circles.
- The name says it all: Fresh Sugar Star Treatment Gift Set ($85) will leave anyone feeling like a star! It includes a Brown Sugar Body Polish, Sugar Lip Treatment SPF15, and a Sugar Blossom Hand Treatment for head-to-toe pampering.
- Travel-size makeup brushes make any trip easier and more comfortable - but many people won't splurge on them for themselves. Treat the frequent traveler in your life to one of my favorite sets: Bobbi Brown's Mini Brush Set ($95) or Laura Mercier's Mini Brush Set ($75).
- You can never go wrong with body lotions - they add both hydration and luxury to any routine. Laura Mercier's Crème Brulee Trio ($65), which includes a body creme, bubble bath, and candle, is magnificent. It smoothes skin and smells divine. (There are other great fragrances, but crème brulee is my personal favorite.)
- Anyone with dry skin should stay away from foaming products that contain skin-drying detergents, but that doesn't mean a fragrant bath is off limits. Jo Malone's Bath Oil Set ($72) includes six decadent, non-drying oils - perfect for a pampering holiday gift.
- For a great gift that's plain ol' fun, I love this Juicy Couture Lip Gloss Pendant ($68). In fact, I collect compacts, and this one's my favorite this holiday season!
Wishing you great skin (and happy gift-giving)!
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Dr. Baumann is author of the best-selling book, " The Skin Type Solution." To learn more about her revolutionary skin typing system, visit her Web site, SkinTypeSolutions.com.
All of Dr. Baumann's recommended skin care products are available online, and a portion of proceeds goes to The Dermatology Foundation.
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