11 Failsafe Skincare Gifts
January 1 | 2 minute read
Words by Christie Sinclair
Originally published on | May 1
Blame it on TikTok or the ozone layer, but almost everyone is obsessed with skincare. Which is great news if you’re in the market for a gift, because there are endless options geared towards every skin type and routine.
But what if your gift recipient is a rookie, or someone without the time for a complex regimen? “Believe it or not, skincare makes a really great gift for everyone, even if they are new to skincare,” says MECCA’s Skincare Education Manager, Giorgi. “Look for simple formulas that work for all skin types and are easy to incorporate into their routine.”
Consider these failsafe options…
Skincare gifts for men
There’s a trick to gifting skincare to (most of) the men in your life – they’re more likely to use a product if it’s easy and quick to use, both in terms of the formula and the packaging. MALIN+GOETZ are masters at the minimalist aesthetic and their formulas require zero assumed knowledge, says Giorgi. “You can’t go wrong with the Vitamin E Face Moisturizer. The ingredients are hydrating but really gentle, and most will love the fact that it’s oil-free and lightweight.”
And AMOREPACIFIC’s Moisture Plumping Nectar is the one for dry-skinned guys who are, nevertheless, categorically opposed to using moisturiser: “This suits people who really dislike feeling anything on their skin,” Giorgi explains, praising its lightweight texture. She adds, “This cream is big on results, thanks to the bamboo extract that provides long-lasting hydration, particularly for those spending hours in artificial heating or cooling.”
Skincare gifts for mature skin
The RéVive Fermitif Neck Renewal Cream is in a league of its own. “This is a great option for mature skin,” says Giorgi. “The formula is rich and rose-scented, so it feels like such a treat every time you apply it.” Don’t just take our word for it: Real Housewives of New York star, influencer and entrepreneur Bethenny Frankel approves, too!
Gifting products that provide instant results will quickly convert a skincare beginner into an obsessive, adds the expert: “Dr Dennis Gross is an icon, and he develops products that provide both immediate and long-term results that you can see from the first application.”
Her top gifting pick from the acclaimed dermatologist’s namesake range is a cult-favourite among beauty editors and MECCA store team members alike: the Alpha Beta® peel pads. According to Giorgi, the Ultra Gentle version is best for skincare starters.
Skincare gifts for teens
Sets are kind of a no-brainer when it comes to gifting skincare – not least as they’re an excellent way to introduce teenagers to the foundations of skincare. “Kiehl's have a wide variety of kits that are suitable for different skin needs, be it gentle and hydrating through to something more gutsy and glowy!” shares Giorgi. “My current pick would be the Kiehl's Smooth It Up Starter Kit which contains a cleanser, serum and moisturiser and gives your skin a boost of radiance.”
Meanwhile, just about anything from beauty authority Zoë Foster Blake’s brand Go-To, is suitable for teenage skin. “The Skintroduction Discovery Pack includes everything temperamental teenage skin needs to stay calm and clear,” advises Giorgi. MECCA MAX's skincare range is also a MECCA team favourite. "You can't go wrong with the WATERCOOLER Calming Hydration Serum and THIRST IMPRESSION Priming Hydrating Moisturiser."
Skincare gifts for all…
You could bet your bottom dollar on the fact that your gift recipient washes their face, so an indulgent cleanser is a great way to enhance their everyday routine. “The ELEMIS Superfood Facial Wash delivers on all fronts: great packaging and a formulation that can be integrated into a shower routine with ease,” explains Giorgi.
And everyone needs SPF – it’s that simple. Now, sunscreen is finally getting its moment in the sun, with next-gen formulas, like the MECCA COSMETICA To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen, the hottest thing in beauty right now. “This is my pick for any gift recipient at any time of year,” shares Giorgi. “The formulation is light yet hydrating, perfect for that person who doesn’t like the feeling of SPF and wants a simple 'all in one' product for daily use.”
