Do’s and Don’ts for Valentine’s Day

Planning on buying your sweetie something smelly-good and pretty for the big V-day? It could be a fantastic idea—or it could be a flop. Here are a few do’s and don’t’s when it comes to Valentines and cosmetics.

Don’t go for basic makeup—unless he or she requests it. Buying foundation, eye shadow, or other gifts might suggest that there’s something wrong with the way your sweetie looks, which isn’t good! However, if the item is requested (“I loooove this Hard Candy glitter stick!”), it’s a safer bet.

Do go for perfume. But if your sweetheart isn’t into additives or cancer-causing agents, choose carefully! You’ll have to search for some natural, essential-oil based scents. Likewise if he or she isn’t into animal testing or environmental impact; in that case, be sure that the product isn’t tested on animals (and contains no animal ingredients) and that it doesn’t leave a huge environmental footprint.

Do go for lotions, bath oils, and other bath products. While some people might remark, “What, do you think I stink?” they are generally the minority. Most people appreciate the gift of a good tub soak, and know that you mean to help them relax and unwind—not get rid of some odor.

Do be creative with bubble bath. If your lover is a kid at heart, then by all means buy him or her some Cars or Tinkerbell bubble bath for the fun of it. If he or she is more sophisticated, something by Victoria’s Secret or The Body Shop might be more appropriate. For the creative types, try a bath bomb or other creation from Lush Cosmetics.

Don’t go for lip gloss—unless it’s a favorite. If you know your honey bunny really loves Whipped Vanilla Lip Smackers Lip Frosting, go for it. But don’t risk a new flavor in case it turns out to be disgusting—a very bad omen for your love life!

Don’t buy shampoo or conditioner—unless they’re a pricey treat that’s been asked for. Unlike bath oils and delightful decorative soaps, these do say, “Wash your hair already, it’s gross!” If you do want to give your Valentine a hair-based gift, try a visit to a salon or spa where he or she can pick the treatment, cut, color, style, etc.

Do give manis and pedis—if you know your sweetie likes that sort of thing. Some people just don’t like their feet to be touched, and you have to respect that rather than force him or her to have it done. That said, many women and men love to have their feet and hands cared for; if your lover is one of these people, absolutely go for it.