Give Gifts of Beauty this Spring

When you're thinking of gifts for mom, dad, the graduate or the bride, it's easy to rely on the same old, same old-a bottle of perfume, a tie, a camera or pots and pans. But if you're looking for something truly beautiful, go for a gift that will seamlessly fit into a beauty routine. Whether it's a manicure kit, a speedy hairdryer, an at-home spa basket or a set of supple shaving creams, a gift of beauty is sure to make a lasting impression, every day.

FOR THE BIRTHDAY GIRL: Hands down, the best birthday gift for mom or your sister is one that pampers her, like a salon manicure. But at $15 or more a pop, a book of ten may bust your budget, and frankly, don't last more than a few days. The answer? Pull together an at-home manicure kit that she can use again and again. For the ultimate salon experience, start with a manicure tool kit with all the basics like clippers, cuticle nippers and files (try Sephora Professional Manicure/Pedicure Nail Kit) and an air dryer like Conair Manicure Center. Include a polish and topcoat (try Pro Strong Mini Manicure Set), a moisturizing cuticle cream (try Bliss Manicure's Best Friend) and orange sticks, for a perfect ten anytime, anywhere.

FOR THE GRADUATE: A graduation gift for the teen that's off to college? Look for hi-tech grooming products that get the job done fast. Go for an ionic hair dryer with tourmaline crystals that cut drying time by 60%. The crystals emit negative ions, resulting in healthy, shiny, frizz-free strands (try Andis Ionic Dryer). Or look for styling tools like a straightening or curling iron with ceramic plates (try Bio Ionic iSmooth Conditioning Iron or Bio Ionic iCurl Conditioning Iron), that will seal in the cuticle and prevent heat damage leaving behind silky smooth locks.

FOR THE BRIDE: The frazzled bride is running at full speed, especially when the engagement party-shower-bachelorette cycle hits full swing. If you want a bridal gift that helps her de-stress, you can't go wrong with a basket of scrubs, bath salts and body lotions that will help her escape in her own bathroom. Look for a spa basket full of soaks, candles and scrubs with scents of rosemary, mint or lavender, which will help her revive and relax (try Sumptuous Spa Basket) - for whichever mood she's in.

FOR DAD: A father's day gift that's sure to bring a smile in the mirror: Good-for-his skin shaving creams and after-shave products. Look for creamy concoctions that have moisturizing ingredients such as olive extract or jojoba (try Fresh Men's Shaving Cream) and pair it with a sampling of after-shaving balms and tonics in invigorating scents (try e-Shave Cucumber Basics Travel Gift Set). It's a guarantee pick-me-up every AM.