Welcome to Beauty School! Every Monday, JET experts will teach you how to preserve your sexy. This week, make-up and hair expert Dre Brown offers insights on beauty gift ideas this holiday season.
We’ve all been there. It’s Christmas Day, the wrapping paper’s been tossed, and we are left to behold our treasures. Amongst the motherload may lay a plethora of pungent potions, lotions, makeup gift sets, soaps and salves — many of which offer seasonal scents from pumpkin to peppermint. Ahhhh, though the thoughts and love are heartwarming, so starts the beauty gift audit to determine which body wash, perfume, and the like will be kept, go back to the store, or get “re-gifted” in the new year to come.
Buying beauty gifts can often be a gamble. So many pretty packaged options surround shoppers and the intoxicating warm and fuzzy fragrances appear to beguile us until they are securely purchased. But, are these gifts really what’s wanted on the other end? Sure, it could be argued that every woman can appreciate a product to pamper or “pretty” herself. Yet, who’s really signing up to smell like a gingerbread cookie or candy cane after December 25th?
I’m no shopping expert, but I know beauty! Here are some of my tips and picks for reducing the risk of “re-gift” this holiday season. Enjoy . . .
Care To Offer Customization
Beauty is uber-personal, so picking gifts that offer versatility and customization can prove to have greater staying power. If your “giftee” can play with the product to make it her own, it’s sure to stick around.
PICK: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics’ Lip Tar “All Stars” Mini Set – $20 at sephora.com
Have a “lip lover” on your shopping list? Give her unlimited possibilities in this petite pouch featuring four mixable lip tar pigments and a convenient lip brush. She can create her own custom blend or rock the shades as they come.
Pamper Without Prescribing
Show your gift recipient the TLC she deserves without assuming she’ll go wild for the lavender scent of those bath salts or the oils in that foot cream. If you’re not absolutely sure she’ll love it, pick a gift that offers universal pamper potential.
PICK: Satin Pillowcases – Prices vary. See your favorite linens retailer.
Whether her hair is locked, relaxed, kinky or curled, offer her friction-free rest and style-saving softness with an assortment of satin pillowcases. Available at a variety of retailers, these plush gifts allow your “giftee” the option of tossing her bonnet and letting her hair down for a great night’s sleep.
Overjoy With Organization
If your recipient is a big makeup buff, she probably has her fill of products. Instead of adding to her vanity clutter or offering a product she may not use, bless her with the gift of organization to help her get the most out of her beauty bounty.
PICK: eDiva Clear Acrylic Makeup Organizer – Starts at $198 on eDiva.com
This heavy-duty acrylic caddy comes designed to fit various standard cosmetic shapes and sizes from lipsticks to nail polish. With 360 degree transparency, this “nearly indestructible” case offers easy access and organization while stylishly coordinating with any decor.
Your Turn: What is your favorite beauty gift? Let us know in the comments!
