My personal gifting philosophy is to give something they’d love but are unlikely to splurge on for themselves.  Luxe sleepwear and makeup are both great options, but if you want to give something that is both practical and indulgent, high quality skincare is the way to go.  This is another near-foolproof category of gift (the only way to get it really wrong is to buy products emblazoned with “anti-aging” if you aren’t certain the recipient is hoarding the stuff).  Aside from that, the only other downside of shopping skincare is an overabundance of choice – there are literally thousands of options, but I’ve narrowed them down to a curated list of personal favorites, recommendations of trusted friends, and collections I would love to get myself:

For Someone Who Could Use a Little ‘Me Time’

If you are shopping for someone who could ever be adjacent to the adjective “harried,” give them a set of luxe masks, the best excuse to just be still for 15-20 minutes in the midst of the madness.   This set from Peter Thomas Roth includes one of my favorite over the top indulgences, a mask made of 24K gold flakes (yes, really), along with five other best sellers.  There is something for everyone here, and the $25 price tag is remarkably affordable given the prices of the full sized versions.

For Anyone Who IS Trying to Stop the Proverbial Clock

As I said, you have to tread carefully with anti-aging sets, but if you are buying for someone who is looking for a skincare regimen that is luxurious and really works, the Divine Immortelle collection from L’Occitane is it.  I have never been able to stick to a multi-step process until I got this set, but my skin’s health has improved so markedly since I’ve started that now I am commited.  The full size set available at Nordstrom can arrive by Christmas Eve if you order now, and the Trial Set direct from L’Occitane is perfect for a more affordable option.

For Your Friend That Appreciates Both Luxury and Nostalgia

Shu Uemara is really the pinnacle of luxury when it comes to hair, but this special collaboration with Super Mario is anything but stuffy.  There’s even a set of Princess Peach brushes!

For Your #ThickThighsSaveLives BFF

This cute and cheeky gift set from personal favorite Megababe is the perfect thing to give your best girlfriend who loves her body but hates chafing.  This product has been a game changer for me, and their holiday sets are so fun.  I’m also giving away a Mega Babe Holiday Megaset on my Instagram now – click here to enter!

I’ve rounded up some more favorites below – click through to find the perfect skincare gift to buy now: