Purchasing gifts for loved ones can evoke a multitude of emotions; joy, frustration, love, envy, nostalgia, and fear just to name a few. Fear, you say? Yes! I am sure you have experienced that moment of terror after you give a gift and anxiously wonder what the recipient’s reaction will be. It can be especially difficult when buying for a woman (like myself) who knows exactly what she likes. How can you please her? What products? What colors? What stress! Fret no more. Below you will find five beauty gifts that are foolproof. Every woman would be thrilled to receive just one, or all five if you are going for the wow factor. You can thank me later.
1) Eye Cream
When it comes to age, the eye area is a dead giveaway. Neglect will add years, but care will turn back time. Everyone, regardless of age, race, lifestyle, or appearance, should be using an eye cream to prevent and repair. When buying as a gift, go for a cream that addresses all concerns (dark circles, puffiness, lines, wrinkles, firming, etc.) such as Giorgio Armani Crema Nera Eye Cream.
2) Mascara
Open mascara should be replaced approximately every three months to prevent the growth of bacteria. Even non-makeup wearers sometimes coat their fringe; black mascara is a no brainer for any woman on your holiday list (with the exception of those who have lash extensions.)
3) Black Eyeliner
Black eyeliner defines the eyes whether it is smudged, clean and precise, or simply wiggled in between the lashes to give the appearance of added volume. I would guess that nine out of ten women would agree that black eyeliner is an essential element of their makeup bag.
4) Palette
Blush, shadow, lips and eye liner all in one convenient on-the-go compact with a mirror; what more can a woman ask for! When gifting, stick with everyday neutral tones that will flatter almost anyone like Bobbi Brown’s Bobbi and Katie palette.
5) Brush Set
When in doubt about colors, it is better to be safe than sorry. Give the gift of a DIY professional makeup application every time with a brand new set of brushes. If assembling a set piece by piece, make sure to include a foundation brush, powder brush, blush brush, small pointed round eye shadow brush, and large blending eye shadow brush. Any other brushes would simply add to the set. If you prefer to purchase a pre-packed set, my top pick for 2013 is Mac’s Stroke of Midnight Essentials Brush Kit.