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48 Brilliant Gifts For Women Under $20 On Amazon That Aren't Corny
I've always thought that the greatest thing about being Oprah Winfrey would be getting to do all those fabulous things for other people. Clearly, we don't all have the budget of The Divine Ms. O — there's probably no "You get a car! And YOU get a car! And YOU get a car!" in my future — but with the budget I'm working with, it really does feel good to deliver some brilliant gifts for women under $20 when I can. Of course, all of these gifts work for anyone who identifies as a woman, and men will love them, too.
The problem is, we all have those friends and family members who are incredibly hard to buy for — and when we're talking reasonably-priced treats, this can turn into a real challenge.
Well, fear not. Amazon offers a treasure trove of solutions to this problem, and at such affordable prices that you can stock up as you run across favorites. I try to keep a "prize closet" going so that I have gifts handy for special occasions or those times when I'm moved to treat my friends or loved ones at the spur of the moment. Many of these gifts are also brilliant as hostess gifts for when you're going to dinner, or whenever you don't want to arrive empty-handed.
Either way, all these gifts will make the person you're presenting it to feel truly special. Isn't that what we're all looking for in a gift, regardless of price tag?
1. This Rich Tinted Balm Is A Luxurious Treatment For Your Lips
Korres Lip Butter, $12, Amazon
If you have chapped lips, Korres Lip Butter will save you. Made from a blend of natural oils and extracts to soothe and condition, plus shea butter and rice wax for lasting hydration and softness, its rich, emollient formula is both luxurious and healing. Plus, it comes in a fantastic range of colors that works on most skin tones — this one is a charming millennial pink hue.
2. The Fascinating Book That Can Make A Difference In Anyone's Life
The Art Of Talking To Yourself, $15, Amazon
If you're thinking you might feel a little odd giving someone a self-help book, this book is so much more than that — it's more like a self-empowerment book. To quote the product description, "...this book will not fix you. But if the words herein have their intended effect, you will flip the last page realizing that you do not need to be fixed." What better gift could you give than a tribute to the fact that she's perfect just the way she is?
3. The Rich And Healing Treatment For Tired Feet
Feet Of Endurance, $16, Amazon
Feet of Endurance is the perfect gift for anyone with tired feet, and this potent balm is a real treat thanks to its combination of bentonite clay — in use for centuries thanks to its natural healing properties — and a blend of natural oils and herbs. It provides fast relief for all manner of aches and pains, as well as speedy treatment for nagging conditions like athlete's foot, psoriasis, bunions, and calluses.
4. This Candle That Melts Away The Stress
La Jolie Stress Relief Candle, $10, Amazon
Everyone loves a beautiful candle, and this one is not only gorgeous but custom-made for travel. The hidden secret is in its clean blue lotus scent, a refreshing floral that blends notes of lemon and lily of the valley to provide an ideal meditative and luxurious ambiance. Plus, it's 100 percent soy, and has a burn time of 40 to 50 hours, so it's truly the gift that keeps on giving.
5. The 2-In-1 Travel Mirror That Has A Convenient Light
V&H Home Lighted Travel Mirror, $19, Amazon
As a contact lens wearer and a fan of very red lipstick, this travel mirror is quite possibly the one gift that I would most love for someone to give me: You can apply both without a mirror, but the results can be disastrous. This compact-sized model is battery operated and offers a magnifying mirror on one side and a standard mirror on the other, lit by LED lights. It can also stand on its own, making it perfect for makeup application on-the-go.
6. A Genius Keychain Accessory That Has Two Chargers
Remax Charging Cable Tassel, $11, Amazon
Your gadget-obsessed bestie will never be caught without her chargers again when you clip this cute tassel to her purse. The on-trend faux leather tassel cleverly conceals a USB and lightning charger. Perfect for use on a keychain, it will easily power up your phone no matter where you are.
7. This Customizable Eye Mask Really Brings The Spa Home
ASUTRA Lavender Silk Eye Pillow, $17, Amazon
This regal purple 100 percent silk eye mask provides blackout curtain-quality sleeping anywhere, anytime. It's designed with comfort in mind, curves gently around the nose, and features an adjustable elastic band in the back to ensure that it stays in place. The best part? It's filled with organic lavender and flax seeds, but it can be customized simply by zipping it open and filling it as desired — you can add more lavender, go unscented, or add more flax seed to adjust the weight.
8. This Innovative Warming Mask Is Like A Full Night's Sleep For Your Eyes
BestFire Hot Steam Eye Mask, $14 (Set of 20), Amazon
This mask is a tailor-made treat for those of us who spend eight hours or more peering into a computer screen. If you're lacking moisture or just feel bleary-eyed, this mask helps restore that by gradually heating up to 100 degrees and generating a comfortable warming vapor that relieves eye fatigue, reduces dark circles, and moisturizes the skin around the eyes.
9. The Facial Massaging Brush That Doesn't Break The Bank
AXAYINC Facial Cleansing Brush, $17, Amazon
This device makes a great gift, and an impressive one, too: Facial massagers are one of those things everyone wants, but most models are incredibly pricey. At under $20, this battery-powered model is a steal, plus it's crafted from super-durable, soft food-grade silicone. Waterproof and a convenient size for travel, it's equipped with five speed adjustments to cleanse and exfoliate your skin.
10. This Charcoal And Lavender Soap Detoxes And Relaxes
Essentially Organic Detox + Relax Soap, $10, Amazon
It's safe to say that charcoal is having a moment, and this soap delivers all the detoxing benefits of this ingredient, with the added benefit of lavender essential oil — an aromatic skin toner that calms redness and relaxes your skin. Together, this combo is a powerful face and body wash for all skin types, and is especially beneficial for those suffering with acne, blackheads, eczema, or psoriasis. Plus, the scent itself has calming properties.
11. A Case That Holds Your Phone So You Don't Have To
ESR iPhone X Case, $19, Amazon
This incredibly smart case makes it possible for the iPhone X owner in your life to use her phone and get on with her life at the same time. While the kickstand provides support in either portrait or landscape mode, the hard PVC backing and flexible bumper provides effective protection for the phone itself, and also supports wireless charging.
12. The Kitchen Gadget That Makes Every Morning Feel Like A Weekend
Oster Belgian Waffle Maker, $18, Amazon
Belgian waffles seem so luxurious and special, and this handy appliance means one is less than 10 minutes away at any moment. It features durable stainless steel construction with nonstick waffle plates that are removable for easy cleanup and together make one deliciously crispy, deep-pocketed 8-inch waffle at a time. A light will clue you into what's going on at all times, and an adjustable temperature gauge provides the ultimate in customization.
13. The Microfiber Towel That Dries Hair Fast And Smooth
Evolatree Hair Towel, $15, Amazon
This towel is the perfect solution for hair that takes too long to air dry, but is super-susceptible to the breakage and split ends that blowdrying can inflict. It's crafted with unique microfiber technology to dry hair quicker and absorb moisture faster than other materials, leaving the hair tangle-free while still slightly damp. This gives you options — either finish by blowdrying in much less time than it would have taken from wet, or let air dry.
14. This Small-But-Mighty Speaker Means It's Always Party Time
Lenrue Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $17, Amazon
Even though this Bluetooth speaker fits in your palm, it provides superior quality and excellent bass for up to 10 hours without needing to charge. The brushed rose gold finish brings a stylish appearance to your jam sessions as well, and a blue LED light adds some ambiance. Supports most Bluetooth devices as well as 3.5-millimeter auxiliary input and TF card input.
15. The Aromatherapy Bath Bombs That Will Rock Your World
Grace & Stella Bath Rocks, $8, Amazon
Bath products are a natural for gift-giving, and these handmade natural sea clay bath bombs really kick that tradition up a notch. These modern-looking and cleanly-packaged "rocks" are packed with all-natural virgin shea and cocoa butters, fizzy citric acid, and cleansing Dead Sea and Epsom salts. This blend offers relaxing floral aromatherapy by way of jasmine and white tea scents. It's like a professional quality spa treatment in the comfort of your own tub.
16. The Kitchen Gadgets That Are Practical And Practically Indispensable
StarPack Silicone Spatula Set, $15 (Set of 4), Amazon
Crafted from FDA-grade, BPA-free silicone, these solid silicone spatulas are the most versatile tool in any kitchen. They won’t harbor bacteria, and as they're heat resistant up to 480 degrees, they won't melt or warp, either. Their smooth edges work in perfect harmony with non-stick pans of any type, and they're ideally designed for spreading frosting or scraping out mixing bowls — and the silicone means these spatulas are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup, too.
17. This Ingenious Pad Massages Your Feet While You Shower
Senma Shower Foot Massager, $10, Amazon
If you have a friend that's always on their feet, this massaging shower mat is the gift for her. Made of high-quality PVC, the bristles on this mat improve circulation and blood flow to relieve tired, achy feet, while providing a deep and thorough cleaning. It's bacteria-resistant and easy to clean just by rinsing — just hang it up by the loop to dry in between uses.
18. That Genius Item That Turns A Common Accessory Into A Fashion Statement
Zuo Bao Grooved Cuff Bracelet, $16 (2 Pack), Amazon
If you know someone who always has a hair tie around their wrist, these bangle bracelets will convert it into a fashion-forward piece of jewelry. That hair tie goes in the channel in the middle, and what was suddenly cutting off the blood flow to your wrist is now magically transformed into a style statement. Made from stainless steel, this two-pack includes one in a gold finish and one in rose gold.
19. The Hairspray That Holds Without Being Too Stiff
blowpro Non-Stick Hairspray, $17, Amazon
This hairspray could not be further from the incredibly sticky, heavily perfumed OG version that left your hair helmet-stiff. Instead, this aromatic, lighter-than-air mist provides a hold that's moveable and healthy looking. Created to finish the perfect blowout with its conditioning blend of silk and soy proteins, it blocks humidity, adds shine, and conditions hair — yet you'll still be able to run your fingers through your 'do.
20. The Planner That Lets You Live Life On Your Schedule
Bullet Keeper Undated Planner, $13, Amazon
Options are always good, and this planner gives you plenty by letting you structure your life, your way: It comes with monthly, daily and weekly undated calendars to allow you to organize the format that best works for you. Use it as a life planner, personal organizer, habit and productivity goal tracker, or just take notes in it. It includes a bookmark, ruler, expandable back folder pocket, 2018 to 2019 calendars for reference, and plenty of blank pages.
21. This Beautiful Natural Comb Gives You A Tangle-Free Mane
Meta-C Sandalwood Comb, $11, Amazon
Crafted from premium handcrafted sandalwood and lovely to look at, this comb will painlessly move through your locks without snagging and eliminate troublesome tangles and snarls. While you're taming your tresses, enjoy the light sandalwood scent, which is said to calm the mind, soothe stress and ease nervous tension. Each comb is unique and comes in a drawstring bag all ready for gifting.
22. This Hot Tool Station Is A Must For Anyone Who Loves Doing Their Hair
Hairizone Hot Tool Station, $13, Amazon
Burn marks on the counter and singed towels or bedspreads will be a thing of the past when you gift this hot tool station. Made from durable canvas with a heat-resistant interior lining, this accessory is a heat shield storage case and organizer for all things hair, including flat irons, curling irons, and heated brushes. Great for both travel and home use, this handy pouch also helps curb all those crazy cables, and it seals with Velcro to keep it all together.
23. The Organizer That Makes Order Out Of Chaos When You're Getting Ready
Ikee Design Jewelry And Cosmetic Organizer, $19, Amazon
This organizer puts a hard stop to the archaeological dig that goes on when you're trying to get out the door in the morning and can't find the right lipstick. It has 16 slots and four drawers that store accessories, lipsticks, skincare, and more, and the see-through design lets you instantly lay eyes on what you're looking for.
24. The Hanger That's Actually Made For Tank Tops
Axis Strappy Top Hanger, $13 (3 Pack), Amazon
This three pack of hangers is an oh-so-practical gift perfect for anyone who's ever experienced the frustration of a tank top or camisole sliding off a traditional hanger and onto the closet floor (so that's just about everybody). Each hanger provides the ability to hang eight garments in the space of one, freeing your closet from clutter and organizing clothes better and easier. Additionally, these hangers are great for use in drip-drying and air-drying clothes, and can be used for items like swimsuits and bras as well.
25. This Pocket Size Three-In-One Gadget Is Seriously All You Need For Hair And Scalp Care
TOUCHBeauty Foldable Hair Brush, $17, Amazon
For the woman with luscious locks, this hair brush is simply a must. Not only is it purse-sized, but it performs a veritable cornucopia of hair magic: It detangles and provides an anti-static treatment, incorporates a battery-operated massager with two speeds, and delivers magnetic therapy to boost circulation. Plus, there's a mirror in the fold-open handle so you can admire your newly revitalized, static-free, detangled coif. It's easy to clean, too: Simply remove the brush from its handle and rinse it under running water.
26. The Condoms That Are Really Effective...At Preventing Wine Spillage
Wine Condoms, $14 (6 Pack), Amazon
Perfect for the oenophile in your life, these novelty stoppers do actually sit flush with the rim of the bottle of wine and hug the bottle to prevent spills, ensuring, as the manufacturer notes, that you can "practice safe sips." They're not just for fun, though: Made of 100 percent rubber, they prevent oxygen from entering the bottle and spoiling the wine, and unlike with regular stoppers, it will still easily fit in the refrigerator if so desired.
27. These Cheerful And Fluffy Aloe Socks Provide Moisturizing Foot Therapy
Earth Therapeutics Aloe Socks, $16 (2 Pack), Amazon
These fun and fluffy socks are like a spa treatment in a package: Their snuggly, stretchy nylon-spandex blend fabric is infused with natural aloe vera and vitamin E to continually moisturize while surrounding your feet in plush comfort. Pair with a favorite moisturizer for super-silky smooth feet. While there are many competitors on the market, one Amazon reviewer notes that she has "...tried many other brands of aloe socks. None compare to these!"
28. This Manual Chopper Slices Right Through Food Prep Chores
Bulbhead Crank Chop, $16, Amazon
Electric food processors are great, but they're an expensive gift and take up a lot of counter space. This manual chopper is under 6-inches in diameter, and its petite size is perfect for crowded apartment-dwellers or anyone who likes to keep a lot of kitchen accessories on hand. Plus, this chopper works on an ingenious pull-string mechanism: Simply place your ingredients in the generous 2-cup capacity bowl, then pull the cord to start chopping. The more you crank, the finer the chop.
29. These Crazy-But-Genius Wands Instantly Ice Down Your Beer
MIUVA Beer Chiller Cooling Sticks & Stainless Steel Tumbler, $11 (2 Pack), Amazon
So these wands look a little unusual, but here's the lowdown: they may be odd-looking sticks, but they instantly ice down any beverage at least 8.5-inches tall. Freeze the FDA-approved, BPA-free stainless steel sticks for at least 45 minutes, then insert in your bottled beverage. The "head" of the stick fits over the bottle top and you drink right through it — and the beverage is instantly cooled, and stays that way for hours. While it's made for long-neck beers, this device also works great for bottled water and soda as well.
30. A Mask Set That Makes You Feel Like You're At A Spa
The Face Shop Face Mask Set, $10 (10 Pack), Amazon
When I was little, I wanted nothing more than the giant crayon box with all 64 colors. This mask set brings the grown-up gift-giving allegory of that mythical crayon box to life with its promising selection of 10 different sheet masks. Formulated in Korea, each contains a different serum with moisturizing and nourishing properties that leave the skin soft and healthy. They're also made from cotton leaves and accented with a variety of natural ingredients like red ginseng and bamboo.
31. This Super-Fun Makeup Brush Set Is Also Super-Soft And Easy To Grip
Makeupstore Cosmetic Brush Set, $14 (Set of 16), Amazon
How fun would this brush set be as a hostess gift for anyone who loves a beachy vibe? While they are incredibly cute, the really fabulous thing about them is that they feature super-soft and fluffy synthetic fibers that are not only gentle on your skin but also easy to clean and long-lasting. The scales on the handle actually make them easier to grip during application as well, and there is something for everyone in the set — think kabuki brushes, contour brushes, shading brushes, and more.
32. The Simple Accessory That Helps Stretch Your Yoga Practice To The Next Level
Gradient Fitness Yoga Strap, $10, Amazon
Sometimes the simplest things make the biggest impact, and it's no exception with this yoga strap. Crafted from a polyester-cotton blend webbing made to be super soft yet highly durable, this strap can be used to connect limbs and maintain poses longer and more comfortably. It's also great for enhancing in-home physical therapy exercises, and features an easy-feed square buckle for transitioning from one pose to another with ease.
33. This Scrubber Puts The Fun Back In Functional Facial Care
TONYMOLY Pore Blackhead Scrub Stick, $13, Amazon
The retro fun packaging of this scrub stick conceals a serious secret weapon in the battle against clogged pores: Remove the friendly little critter's top, and you'll find a balm made black mud and cellulose beads to removes excess sebum and gently exfoliate pores. Other pore-refining ingredients include Dead Sea salt, taurine, and black peat water. Skin will look and feel cleaner and smoother, and it'll also get rid of blackheads and whiteheads.
34. These Tough Kitchen Scrubbers Are Germs' Worst Enemy
Zintak Silicone Sponge Scrubbers, $15 (3 Pack), Amazon
Kitchen sponges are hotbeds for bacteria, but not these silicone scrubbers. FDA-approved and BPA-free, they're antibacterial and easy to clean and sanitize in the dishwasher. Plus, the flexible bristles of these accessories can be used to scrub everything from vegetables to dishes, and they come as a set in three rustic colors. Need something to go underneath a hot coffee pot? No problem — these scrubbers can effectively double as trivets.
35. This Handy Gadget Is Great For A Good Night's Rest
HoMedics Sound Spa, $19, Amazon
With six different sound settings all engineered to mimic the natural environment, this device offers something for everyone trying to fall asleep or simply block out environmental noise whether at home or at work. A great gift for apartment-dwellers or new parents, this unit also features three auto-off timer settings to conserve energy. This unit operates either on batteries or using a wall outlet, so it makes an ideal present for the traveler, too.
36. An Adorable Hot-Cold Travel Mug That Is Absolutely Leak-Proof
Shari Insulated Travel Mug, $16, Amazon
For your friend who's always on the go, this travel mug is a nifty treat. It features a tightly fitted BPA-free lid to ensure that any travel beverage is truly leak-proof, and it's the perfect size to stash in a carry-on, backpack, gym or yoga bag, or purse. The double-wall vacuum construction is made of food-grade stainless steel and will keep hot or cold beverages the right temperature for hours.
37.
Vermont's Original Bag Balm, $9, Amazon
This cult-classic balm — which was created to protect cows' skin from Vermont's harsh environmental conditions — pretty much does it all. You can use it as lip balm, nail and cuticle cream, or to provide nourishment and hydration to any dry, chapped, or cracked areas, like elbows and heels. A true multi-tasker, this product belongs in every woman's purse. And yes, you can use it on your animals, too!
38. A Spray Oil That Leaves You Moisturized And Smelling Good Enough To Eat
J.R. Watkins Body Oil Mist, $8, Amazon
This body oil is rich and moisturizing, yet absorbs quickly into the skin to leave it feeling soft and smooth without unwanted residue. Lightly scented with coconut to deliver beach vibes all year long, it is formulated with apricot kernel oil and vitamin E to nourish your skin with essential nutrients it needs. Additionally, the oil is all natural and completely cruelty-free. One reviewer notes: "This is the best oil spray I've ever used!"
39. This Squeegee May Be The Most Versatile Household Accessory Ever
Umbra Flex Rubber Squeegee, $7, Amazon
Great for gifting as a multi-purpose bar tool or for anyone who loves to cook out, this accessory is incredibly versatile: Use the hard side as a squeegee to wipe down flat surfaces or brush crumbs, then flip over to use the bristled side to scrub stains or sweep spills. The 100 percent silicone construction makes it flexible enough to get into small nooks and curved spaces, and its suitable for tidying up both wet and dry messes.
40. This Four-In-One Cooker Makes Perfect Rice Quick And Easy
Joseph Joseph Rice Cooker Set, $16, Amazon
Great for the avid cook, especially anyone who loves homemade sushi, this set provides the means to measure, wash, cook, and serve perfectly fluffy rice. Comprised of a 2-liter cooking pot, nesting colander, measuring cup, and rice paddle that fluffs and serves the rice, the set has been designed with convenience in mind.
41. The Collapsible Bowl That Turns Any Popcorn Into Microwave Popcorn
HOTPOP Microwave Popcorn Popper, $15, Amazon
This silicone bowl makes microwave popping possible with regular popcorn kernels, thus eliminating the muss and fuss of stovetop popping. Great for movie lovers, you can have up to 15-cups of fresh, hot popcorn in under four minutes with this 100 percent food-grade silicone BPA- and PVC-free accessory. Once you're done, this dishwasher-safe bowl collapses down to half its size for easy storage.
42. A Travel Bottle Set That's Leak-Proof And Absolutely Adorable
MrLifeHack Travel Bottle Set, $16, Amazon
This TSA-approved set of bottles is perfect for the traveler you know who's always complaining about how her store-bought sample sizes just leaked all over her suitcase. Gift her this cute set of owl-shaped refillable bottles — equipped with non-drip valves and triple sealing caps — and she'll be set to hit the road. The adjustable ID window on each bottle allows for customization of each label: just twist the tabs on each cap to select the desired label.
43. This Small But Mighty Ceramic Flat Iron That Fits In Any Purse
AmoVee Mini Flat Iron, $13, Amazon
For less than $15, you can score this mini — but powerful — flat iron. Don't let its small size fool you: in addition to straightening, it can also create curls, crimps, and waves, and it heats up to 410 degrees Fahrenheit, fast. It uses tourmaline and negative ionic technology to eliminate frizz and pulling, and it even comes with a heat-resistant glove. A must-have for post-gym use or anyone who's frequently on the go.
44. The Handbag Add-On That Lets You Stop Searching And Start Finding
Wasserstein Purse Light, $12, Amazon
A clever invention, indeed: this little LED light contains an intelligent sensor that turns it on once it detects motion of an approaching object. Its energy-efficient power management system turns the light back off after 15 seconds, just long enough to illuminate whatever item you're after. This gadget adds little weight to whatever you're carrying, and reviewers say it's super convenient.
45. The Perfect And Precise Eyeliner Pen
Docolor Liquid Eyeliner Gel, $8, Amazon
A must for the beauty lover in your life, this eyeliner lays down flawlessly clean lines with no skipping and no drying out, thanks to its unique gel formula. It's also waterproof and long-lasting, and the ultra-thin 0.4-millimeter applicator brush is crafted from soft, mild bristles so it won't trigger those with sensitive skin.
46. The Full-Featured Eyelash Curler That Also Looks Like Modern Art
Brilliant Beauty Eyelash Curler, $10, Amazon
This beauty building block is anything but basic — with its lustrous rose-gold finish, it's almost like a work of art. The real artwork happens, however, when you apply it to your lashes: The calibrated hinge ensures uniform pressure every time, plus its ergonomic design and longer surface enable you to get a good grip on lashes. These features combine to produce voluminously curled eyelashes with absolutely no tugging or pulling, and no broken lashes.
47. This Lipstick-Sized Charger Is Strong Beyond Its Size
Bonai Portable Charger, $18, Amazon
Another entry in the tiny-but-mighty category, the size of this charger belies its power: Though it takes up about as much space as a tube of lipstick, it will provide a full charge to your iPhone...twice! Plus, the advanced circuitry and built-in safeguards in this device will protect your phone against excessive current, overheating, and overcharging. Bonus: Only one cable — the included 4-foot lightning cable — is required to charge both your phone and the power bank itself.
48. These Weird But Genius Socks Massage And Stretch Your Feet While You Wear Them
Triim Fitness Toe Separator Socks, $10, Amazon
These socks make a unique and thoughtful gift for that friend who works hard on her feet: Fit your toes snugly through the holes, and they'll instantly stretch for some much-needed stress relief. Made from a cotton-spandex blend, they're a treat for the feet but appropriate for regular wear with shoes, providing relaxation and enhancing circulation with each step. They also help prevent foot cramps, too.
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