Organic Beauty View

If you’re like me, holiday shopping is creeping up to the top of your to-do list and you’re in the market for some winning gift ideas. While I’m practical in nature, I can’t help but love giving gifts that are luxurious and indulgent- which is where beauty comes in! 2009 has been a year of practical, economical choices so there’s no better reason to spoil the people on your list with some of the best products out there. You can legitimize it all with the knowledge that you are turning loved ones on to healthy beauty choices! And really, you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t appreciate a little natural pampering. Here are a few top picks for luxe holiday beauty gifts (note that luxe does not equal expensive!). Choose one to top off a present or stuff a stocking; assemble a few in a pretty basket for a show-stopping gift…

Body Oil: From the exotically-scented Patyka Rosewood Body Oil to the classic Weleda Lavender Relaxing Body Oil, you’ll find few products that pack a more pampering punch. Many people haven’t tried body oil, so show them what they’re missing. They’ll love your thoughtfulness- especially during the cold, dry winter months!

Fragrance: Natural and organic scents are on the up and up. We obsessively love Acorelle and all of the gorgeous solid scents from Soap & Paper Factory (verbena, geranium, gardenia…). We challenge you to avoid buying one for yourself as well- it can’t be done!

Shave Cream: That’s right- this is the rich cream that you rub on in the shower, not the foam-from-a-can.  A favorite new brand is Ec-Oooh-Chic, whose Organic Shea Butter and White Tea Shave Cream is a soothing, buttery blend of shea, aloe, sweet almond and green & white tea. Bye-bye bumps, hello soft skin. (Note: this one works for ladylike legs as well as manly faces! Be sure to share.) 

Sets: If you’re gifting someone who hasn’t has the opportunity to experience natural beauty products, take this time to show them the best of the best. This mini bath & body set from REN includes two body washes and two body creams that everyone should try, and this Weleda Pomegranate Regenerating Body Care kit is just the thing to keep regular travelers looking rested and balanced (plus you get free shipping on Weleda holiday gifts until Dec 24th!). And the best part? These sets are a great value- you definitely get more beauty to share for a low cost. Writer :: Jolene Hart