Energy can’t be created or destroyed, but it can certainly be captured within the pages of these new science fiction tales. In these worlds, some people and beings have the ability to take in and use the universe’s energy to do extraordinary things. Of course, if we know anything about the world, it’s that when you have any power, there are going to be people who want to take it away or exploit it. So, just like these characters, don’t be static — stay current by reading the dynamic novels in this week’s book club, and you’ll find yourself absorbed in these tales.
Similar to finding the best gifts for your sister, I've become a pro at finding things book lovers will cherish. "It takes one to know one" positively applies to this because I'm a bibliophile too. From keeping up with the latest book club picks to seeing what's being praised (or shredded) on BookTok, there's never a time I'm not engrossed in something reading-related.
On that note, prepare your fingers to take screenshots of these fun gifts for book lovers because someone in your inner circle will love them. And if you decide to snag a few of these for yourself, I won't judge you!
Keep reading for the best gifts for every kind of book lover.
- The Best Collector's Edition Book Gift: The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose (On shelves November 26, 2024)
- The Best Journal Gift: Book Lovers Journal
- The Best Drinkware Gift: Book Lovers Themed 16 Oz Glass Cup
- The Best Puzzle: 500 Piece Book Puzzle
- The Best Book Lovers Top: "I Have No Shelf Control" Sweatshirt
The best gift for the book lover who loves collector's editions of books:
Amazon
The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose (November 26, 2024)
The Perfect Marriage follows a wild case involving a married couple and their fight for justice. Unfortunately, readers discover that not all is as it seems between Sarah Morgan and her husband Adam. When an affair and the murder of Adam's mistress rocks their marriage, Sarah will have to prove how good of an attorney she is while defending him.
This collector's edition book comes with detailed endpapers, red edges (as seen above), and a brand new chapter that features "courtroom illustrations!" Pre-order it today so it'll arrive in time for Christmas!
The best gift for book lovers who are serious about their 2025 reading goals:
Target
Book Lovers Journal
The rise of BookTok made room for readers whose strong opinions fueled a renewed interest in reading. Even retailers like Target, Walmart, and Barnes & Noble noticed how powerful it is!
If you know someone who needs a place to organize their books and share their unfiltered thoughts about them, don't be shy about slipping this journal into their curated gift bag.
The best gift for book lovers who always pour a glass of wine when reading:
Target
Wine Glass Set — Read Between The Wine
I absolutely love fun sayings that play on familiar ones we've grown up with. This cute glass set would be perfect to include with someone's new book journal because the two complement each other well. What's a good book review without a nice glass of wine?
The best gift for book lovers who love coffee as much as they do reading:
Amazon
Book Lovers Themed 16oz Glass Cup
Some book lovers may be on a sobriety journey so it's best to steer clear of anything that reminds them of alcohol. Instead, you can buy this cute glass cup for them as a way to acknowledge their love of reading. Although it's technically a coffee cup, the reader you know can put their drink of choice in it!
Between us, I see a lovely golden turmeric tea in my future!
The best puzzle for the book lover who wants to immortalize their bibliophile ways:
Target
500 Piece Book Puzzle
Inside of this seemingly massive book lies 500 pieces of pure fun that create the most beautiful puzzle your reader's ever seen. It's less than $15 so you won't go over budget, and will keep that special someone busy in-between their designated reading sessions.
The best book gift to keep a book lover's toes cozy during winter:
Target
Bookworm Low Cut Socks
One thing any book lover can agree on is that we love cute and silly nods to our reading habits. IMO, these socks bring the 'bookworm' title to life with its cute depiction of a worm sitting on a pile of books. The fact the worm is wearing glasses makes these socks even better!
The best gift for book lovers who love practical jokes and playing pranks on people:
Target
Bookie Cushion
Clearly I'm in a jolly (aka goofy) mood because I immediately laughed when I saw this bookmark. I grew up with a brother so I can spot a whoopie cushion from a mile away and this idea? Oh, it's such a delight for book lovers who have a unique sense of humor.
The best gift for book lovers whose bookshelves are happily overcrowded:
Etsy
"I Have No Shelf Control" Sweatshirt
I'd love to write an entire blurb about why this sweatshirt makes sense as one of the best gifts for book lovers, but it's self-explanatory. I already know there's someone in your life who won't stop buying books even though they've run out of space on their bookshelves. Yes, it's plural because I know they have two that are overflowing.
This sweatshirt is definitely for them.
The best book gift for book lovers who love buying themselves flowers:
Etsy
Personalized Eco-Friendly Book Vase
How gorgeous is this eco-friendly book vase? I've personally tried to convince myself that I don't need one, but I think I may add this to my list of Christmas demands, er, wants, so my fiancé has an idea of what to get me.
The personalization of this book vase is simple:
- Choose from two styles of vases
- Add 10 favorite titles to the personalization box in list form
The best gift for book lovers who still have their childhood library cards:
Etsy
Vintage Library Card Blanket
All book lovers know that falling in love with the library as a kid is like a rite of passage. It was the one place where any outside troubles seemed to fade away because you could pick up any book and be transported to another world. If you know someone who still cherishes those day, you should surprise them with this vintage library card blanket.
You have the option of personalizing it for them or you can let the designer choose which dates or authors to place on it!
The best gift for book lovers who are curating their at-home libraries full of banned books:
Etsy
Personalized Library Sign
Take things a step further and buy a book lover their own library sign, especially if they're buying as many banned books as possible. Reading can be seen as a form of resistance to the idea that books are causing people to think and live in a harmful way. Book lovers know that's not quite it.
The best gift for book lovers who'd rather be reading:
Etsy
Funny Bookish Mug
There may be a pile of laundry on the bed or things to pack if you're moving, but nothing comes before reading. Well, that's probably what you've been telling yourself and I partially agree. At least shower and brush your teeth before you descend into your undisturbed reading time.
The best gift for book lovers who can't stop reading spicy titles:
Etsy
Fantasy Book Lover Candle
I'm going to hold your hand when I say this: We know you or your bestie can't get enough of reading spicy romance books. I'm privy to this insider's information because I can't stop reading them either. They've actually made date night more fun and that's as far as I'll go.
Even if you or your bestie aren't in a relationship with anyone, the very act of reading smutty things can be a fun form of escapism from the dumpster fire that's been going on since 2020.
The best gift for book lovers who swear they're going to bed after reading one more chapter:
Etsy
Book Lover Candle
You may have heard your best friend or younger sibling say this before: "I'm seriously putting this book down after I read one more chapter." You may have said it to yourself before realizing it's 3:00 in the morning and you haven't slept yet.
Do yourself or another book lover a favor by gifting them this realistic candle. You can choose from the following scents:
- Rose + Patchouli
- Mimosa + Pineapple
- White Tea + Jasmine
- Coconut + Orange
Stop by Brit + Co's Amazon Storefront for our top 2024 book recommendations!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
There are so many items cluttering up our homes and lives, and if we're honest, sometimes asking for physical gifts feels like an unnecessary weight to add to the holiday season. All we really need this year is time with the people that our closest to us, and maybe the opportunity to experience something new.
If you're looking for out-of-the-ordinary gift ideas for your friends and family, look no further than these experience gifts. From one-of-a-kind adventures to super easy ideas that will fit into any budget, these experience gifts are sure to make anyone smile.
Experience gift ideas you haven't thought of for 2024:
Brit + Co
Take Them Ice Skating
Ice skating simply makes winter more magical. It also gives us a chance to live out our Ice Princess dreams – but that's beside the point. Even if you don't live somewhere that has an iconic rink like New York City's Rockefeller Center, you can still make it a whole evening with hot chocolate and cozy sweaters.
Buy Them Concert Tickets
Take your best friend or S.O. to their favorite artist's concert for an unforgettable evening. Not only do you get to hear some awesome music, but concerts are always an excuse to get dressed up in a crazy outfit and dance like no one is watching.
Visit An Aquarium
Something about walking around and looking at animals under the sea makes us feel extra calm, and is great for anyone who wanted to be a mermaid as a kid. Our favorites? Otters, beluga whales, and turtles, but we love regular old fish tanks, too. This is a great way to get a taste of summer while it's dang cold outside!
Give Them A B+C Classes Subscription
If your giftee loves to learn, then they'll get a kick out of a subscription to our online classes. There's something for every stage of life, with classes like painting and freelancing to learning how to combat imposter syndrome.
Go Hiking Together
This is one experience gift that is super easy and super affordable to pull off. You can hike in every state in the country (granted, your hikes might look different in the mountains than in a coastal town), plus you can pack a picnic of their favorite foods or grab takeout from their favorite local restaurant.
Pack A Beautiful Picnic
Speaking of picnics, they're on our list of favorite date ideas *and* an ideal way to spend any day. You can hire a picnic service (like this one for NY) to set up your table before you get there, but you can also go all-out yourself by packing a basket with their favorite foods, drinks, books, and flowers. If it's too cold (or it's pouring out!), set up your picnic indoors among some candles and a nostalgic movie.
Book Some Travel
Travel is an experience gift that will rarely disappoint, especially if you're going to a dream destination. There are so many locations all over the world — big cities like London, historical homes like Biltmore, and even filming locations from your favorite TV shows and movies — this is always a good idea. You can also book AirBnB experiences of all kinds for wherever you choose to stay.
Gift A Language Class
With programs like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone, gaining access to other languages is easier than ever right now. It's never too late to pick up something new, whether or not you're living your Emily in Paris dreams. Bon voyage!
Ride A Hot Air Balloon
See the world from a totally new perspective by going up in a hot air balloon. You can take them at different times of day depending on the view that your giftee loves the most (we're always up for a sunrise adventure), and you can even book one that comes with wine.
Host A Photoshoot
This experience gift idea is totally up to interpretation. Whether your best friend or S.O. wants to be a model for a day with fun props and outfits, or your mom has been asking for a family photoshoot for the last few years, this is the perfect opportunity to gift a photoshoot! You can also turn this experience gift idea on its head and gift your family and friends a photography classthey can do from their home.
Bookstore
If your sibling, best friend, or S.O. loves books, take them to their favorite bookstore, buy them a coffee, and let them peruse the shelves for one (or more!) books that they want to get their hands on. This is a super simple idea that will certainly make them smile.
Cooking Class
If you've never taken a cooking or baking class before, then it's definitely time to add that to your list. Not only is it a fun activity that also rewards you with food, but it makes for a great experience gift, especially for recipients who love spending time in the kitchen.
Dinner + Sailing
Rent your own sailing cruise for the evening to get a dining experience that's unlike any other. Eat dinner at sunset or wait until mid-morning for an extra-fun brunch. In addition to a gift idea, this also makes a great date idea. That's a win-win in our book.
Museum
Take your giftee to their favorite museum, and spend an entire day looking at their favorite paintings and sculptures, or reading up on scientific discoveries. This is one gift idea that's great for all ages, and since there are so many different museums across the country, you can have a different experience every time.
A Spa Day
As much as we love doing our own spa day at home, there's no denying that having someone take care of the self-care is really nice from time to time. If gifting a professional massage or facial is in your gift giving budget, just go for it. The relaxation will be well worth it, and your recipient will be thanking you for eternity.From personal experience, we definitely recommend gifting a massage from Hand & Stone, and a facial from HeydayEscape Room
We're big fans of escape rooms, and we're convinced they're fun for anyone who wants to be a spy for an afternoon. It's great for a couple of people or for a whole group of friends, so you can get all your favorite people in on it. Plus not only is it fun, but having a time limit to solve a problem teach you about your communication styles very quickly.
Wine Tastings + Vineyard Tours
Take the wine lovers in your life to a nearby vineyard to experience the wine up close and personal with a wine tour. This is a great way to try multiple wines so you can figure out which one is your favorite.
Learn To Fly
Great for adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers, this experience gift idea takes you right up into the air. Learn to fly a plane or a helicopter over landscapes that you don't usually get to see from the air.
Let us know which experience gifts you'll be giving this year on Twitter and check out our email newsletter for more ideas.
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
I'm not trying to rush into a new year, but 2025 is looking incredibly promising based on the new books coming our way. At this point, I'm going to need more bookshelves to keep up with the influx of electrifying novels I keep adding to my growing TBR pile. So, here's the inside scoop on all the most-anticipated books for next year that you'll want to start thinking about — and even pre-order!
You know I love being your book bestie, so let's jump into these juicy titles and plots that have me buzzing with excitement!
The Most-Anticipated New Book Of 2025:
Amazon
Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley (February 25, 2024)
During the fall of 2000 at Berkeley University, Percy Marks and Joe Morrow have a chance encounter that changes the course of their lives forever. Instead of finding Percy's ability to deep dive into the meanings of songs, Joe thinks she's fascinating and has the makings of something great. So when he asks her to give her opinion about songs he's written, Percy doesn't hesitate.
It's the very thing that leads to a long collaboration where they begin writing songs together. However, Joe is the only one who's thrust into the spotlight. As such, Percy feels the rising fury of being in his shadows and longs for more. At this point, she knows she's more than capable of introducing the world to the songs in her heart.
Amazon
Bearer of Bad News by Elisabeth Dini (April 29, 2025)
Based in Las Vegas, Lucy Rey lives life as a hairdresser who has a thing against people who can't be upfront with her. Call it karma, manifestation, or bad luck, but she seems to run into the worst secret when she finds out her fiancé hasn't been faithful. With not many options in sight, down-on-her-luck Lucy decides to take on the role of bearing bad news to people.
She's not 100% sure about the job, but it takes her to the Italian Dolomites and promises to render a nice sum of cash if she completes her job. However, she doesn't anticipate the world of secrets she's thrust into nor will she be prepared when she realizes how much she's connected to them.
The Most-Anticipated Rom-Com Books Of 2025
Amazon
For One Night Only by Jessica James (January 7, 2025)
Valerie Quinn's show is on the verge of being canceled because of her wild choices, and she's not ready for that to happen. In a hasty attempt to save it, she decides to put her band Glitter Bats back together. It's just the thing she thinks her public image needs. That and a certain bassist — Caleb Sloane.
Sadly, Valerie and Caleb aren't on speaking turns due to an icky breakup that didn't fare well for the latter. But, Caleb's always found it hard to resist Valerie's charm so he decides to give their reunion and faux relationship another chance. It seems like a good ideas, but they'll have to figure out to avoid all the pitfalls that led to their demise if they want things to work in their favor.
Amazon
Accidentally Amyby Lynn Painter (January 14, 2025)
Isabella Shay's knee-jerk reaction to claim a pumpkin spice latte that isn't hers backfires when the cute businessman she runs into ends up being the VP of her new job — and he is not happy about her little lie. Blake Phillips isn't who she thought he was at work and she'd rather not have anything to do with him. But, something keeps pulling them towards each other and it makes things harder when they're supposed to maintain their professional composures.
Amazon
Better Than Friends by Jill Shalvis (January 21, 2025)
Nothing shakes up your life quite like the disappearance of your parents and the fact your ex is the only person you trust to help you find out what happened to them. Reaching out to Noah Turner isn't at the top of Olivia Porter's to-do list, but she doesn't have a choice because he was a special investigative agent for the National Park Service. Of course he was good at his job and terrible at maintaining a relationship — at least that's what Olivia seems to think.
When they're forced to be in each other's orbit again, old feelings start to come up as the race to find Olivia's parents gets underway. But, Noah and Olivia will have to decide if they trust each other to stop living in their heads so they can have give love a real chance.
Amazon
The Matchmaker by Aisha Saeed (February 4, 2025)
Nura Khan's following in her family's footsteps by continuing in the matchmaking business. She's super successful and has an amazing clientele due to how hard she works. Sadly, she's yet to put her skills to good use in her own romantic life. But, her childhood best friend decides to step in when she needs him the most. He's her childhood best friend who conjures up deep feelings in her even if he doesn't know it yet.
However, someone seems to have it out for her when a curated wedding crashes and burns among other odd occurrences. The more her work is sabotaged, the more Nura becomes convinced someone has it our for her. With the help of Azar and her team, she'll try to solve the mystery of who's toying with her before people get hurt.
Amazon
First-Time Caller by B.K. Borison (February 11, 2025)
Aiden Valentine's become jaded by love even though he's hosting Baltimore's romance hotline, Heartstrings. He's tired of giving everyone else advice while his romantic life is all over the place, but he can't escape it after an interview with a young girl about her mom's dating life becomes popularized. That mom happens to be Lucie Stone.
In her eyes, she's doing a great job at work and has the support of her family. She never questioned things until her daughter called into Heartstrings and it makes her become open to love. Enter a collaboration with Aiden.
Though they're supposed to be helping Lucie's love life, there's a magnetic connection between them that's undeniable. Lucie knows this little "find romance" thing is meant for her, but she can't but wonder if it's closer than she or Aiden are willing to admit.
Amazon
Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley (March 11, 2025)
Jane and Dan's 19-year-old marriage has reached a crossroads that's threatening to send them in different directions. Well, it's mostly Jane who's become disenchanted with her life. She feels lost in motherhood, her career, and believes she's not the only person Dan has been with. Still, the couple decide to head to the luxurious restaurant La Fin du Monde in celebration of their anniversary. It's just Dan isn't suspecting Jane wants to drop a bombshell on him.
However, her plans are slashed into pieces when a climate activist group takes over the dining area. It's not just that, it seems like they've taken pages from book she wrote. She thought it was a failure, but apparently someone has been drawing inspiration from it.
Jane and Dan must rely on each other since they're privy to how this hostage situation will unfold. Although it's not what she had in mind, maybe it could be the very thing to put the spark back into their marriage.
Amazon
Early Thirties by Josh Duboff (March 18, 2025)
Victor and Zoey aren't twenty-something college students anymore, and they're starting to feel every ounce of it. While Victor's found his lane covering the lives of celebrities, Zoey is stuck working for a fashion company that's yet to find a successful way to work with influencers. Still, it's clear to them that the carefree days of their youth seem to be over.
Even worse is the fact their friendship feels like it's falling apart. They're not talking to each other like they use to and it seems to boil down to the fact they're starting to see each other as more than friends in this hilarious second coming-of-age novel.
Amazon
Swept Away by Beth O'Leary (April 1, 2025)
One night stands are meant to be a "hit it and quit it" sort of thing, but running into a former fling is inevitable sometimes. What makes things awkward is when you become stranded with the person you didn't think you'd see again after a fun rump. That's exactly what happens to Zeke and Lexi when their sexy time overshadows logic.
While on Zeke's father's houseboat, neither of them make sure it's connected to the dock so they drift out and realize it much too late. Surrounded by a large body of water and minimal resources, Zeke and Lexi go from a one night stand to a mini version of Gilligan's Island, except they're not exactly laughing at their predicament at first.
But, their long talks begin to develop into much more and it proves that disasters are the best way to see what someone is made of.
Amazon
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (April 22, 2025)
Emily Henry's gearing up for the release of a new Spring 2025 read and it has all the makings of a juicy rom-com, according to People.
When two writers find themselves on Little Crescent Island for a chance of a lifetime, a hilarious chase ensues as they rush to be chosen to write the biography of the mysterious Margaret Ives. Whereas Hayden Anderson is a Pulitzer-prize winning success, Alice Scott has been looking to make her mark as a writer. Though Alice doesn't want to think of it this way, she's pulled into the competitive nature of receiving Margaret's blessing because Hayden isn't letting up.
The problem is that Margaret isn't sharing everything she knows and the NDA the two have signed are making it difficult to decide what's worth adding to her story or not. The closer Alice and Hayden get to the finish line, the more their competition pulls them closer together for a steamy tale that'll leave your jaw on the floor by the time you read the last page.
Amazon
One Golden Summerby Carley Fortune (May 6, 2025)
Alice grew up believing that the lake is sort of magical thanks to something her grandmother used to tell her and it seemed like she was right. Just one summer there changed Alice in a way she always remembers, but life has been mundane as an adult.
She's a decent photographer who spends time making other people look good, but she wonders if this is how she'll spend the rest of her life. No sooner than she has that thought, something happens to Nan that makes Alice want to take them back to Barry's Bay.
As soon as they arrive, someone familiar comes roaring by on the lake — Charlie Florek — and she feels like a giddy teen all over again. Though they're both adults, Charlie has a way of making her feel carefree, but she's afraid to open her heart. Could the change she's been looking for live in Barry's Bay?
Amazon
Can't Get Enoughby Kennedy Ryan (May 13, 2025)
Hendrix Barry is the single, carefree, and sexy 'auntie' out of her friends — not that she's complaining. From the outside looking in, it seems like she doesn't have room to worry about anything. I mean, she's literally #careergoals in the flesh! But aside from the glitz and glamour of her life, Hendrix has to learn how to deal with being a caregiver for a parent.The last thing she needs is to add a man to her busy schedule — or so she thinks.
Her world bursts into a beautiful explosion of color when she meets sexy tech mogul Maverick Bell. He's as charming as as he is business savvy and seems to know how to knock Hendrix off her carefully planted feet. But, Maverick is the last person she's supposed to be with. The problem is that she can't seem to stay away from him.
Can't Get Enough is the final book of the Skyland series so make sure you read Before I Let Go and This Could Be Us to get introduced to the friends at the heart of each moving book!
The Most-Anticipated Thriller And Mystery Books Of 2025
Amazon
The Drowning Game by Barbara Nickless (January 1, 2025)
Nadia and Cass Brenner have inherited Ocean House along with everything that comes with it. This means they've been set up for success by way of a successful yacht business that had elite clientele from America to Europe and are on their way to securing even more funding with the commission of an even bigger build for a wealthy billionaire. But just as they're on the brink of securing things, Cass' life is abruptly cut short.
The police wave it off as a suicide, but Nadia's intuition and sleuthing help her uncover the dangerous things Cass was involved in before her death. Unfortunately, she doesn't do a good job of evading the same world her sister was involved in and becomes embroiled in the dark web that eventually caught up with her sister.
Amazon
The Perfect Home by Daniel Kenitz (January 7, 2025)
Dawn and Wyatt Decker are one of reality TV's beloved couples thanks to their show, The Perfect Home, but it seems like ego and fate have different plans for them. For starters, Dawn's never been keen to the idea of being a 'celebrity,' but Wyatt's always welcomed fame to the point he wants even more of it. One thing they agree on is the expansion of their family, but infertility issues have made it difficult for them to conceive due to Wyatt's medical issues.
However, his hunger to improve the situation turns sinister when he has an adverse reaction to fertility drugs. Though he and Dawn receive their miracle twins, Wyatt becomes a darker version of himself that Dawn can't recognize. When she decides to go on the run with their babies to protect them from her husband's new cruel nature, Wyatt convinces viewers and closed loved ones that Dawn is the one with the problem.
This mother will have to use her intellect and their past to put an end to the man she once knew. But it'll require her to trust allies in this fast-paced thriller.
Amazon
The Unbecoming of Margaret Wolf by Isa Arsén (January 7, 2025)
Margaret Shoard may shine onstage as an actress, but her love life has stalled. She's married to her best friend Wesley, but she knows she's not the only one he shares his affections with. This causes her depression to plummet further than it's ever gone until she's prescribed medicine to help pull her out of her funk.
Before long, Wesley receives a prestigious invitation by director Vaughn Kline to take part in a new Shakespeare project in New Mexico and Margaret makes the decision to tag along. But, they both find salacious things in the desert which threaten their marriage and sanity.
Amazon
A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriageby Asia Mackay (January 14, 2025)
Hazel and Fox look like any normal couple who've just had a baby, but they're harboring murderous tendencies behind their normalcy. In their mind, they only killed those who used the patriarchy to their advantage, but a killer is still just that, right?
They decided to stop reaping the rewards of helping the world in their own twisted way to become a nuclear family and almost fooled themselves into thinking they'd put their pasts behind them. But Hazel can't stop thinking about the thrill of killing and it's really starting to bother her.
The slight problem is Fox is settling into the life they've built, especially where fatherhood is concerned. At the same time, he knows Hazel is struggling and completely understands her. There's no judgement from him until Hazel does the unthinkable and the police follow the breadcrumbs right to their front door.
Amazon
Dead Money by Jakob Kerr (January 28, 2025)
Mackenzie Clyde is so great at fixing the problems of the most successful (and "ruthless" venture capitalist in Silicon Valley that she doesn't even blink twice when given tasks. She knows she's capable of handling them and seems to do so with great ease.
But when the CEO of a hot new startup is found murdered and leaves behind 'dead money,' Mackenzie realizes she's never played this kind of game before. The huge problem is that Mackenzie's boss was a chief investor in the startup which means there's money and cops on standby.
As always, Mackenzie is expected to fix this problem. Even though she's never dealt with something so grand, she's prepared to go down the list of high-value suspects until she discovers the necessary information that grants her to opportunity to move ahead in life.
Amazon
You Are Fatally Invited by Ande Pliego (February 11, 205)
Mila del Angél may have been an aspiring writer at one point, but her passion is reignited when famous author J.R. Alastor picks her to host a writing treat in Maine. No one knows Alastor's identity, but that's all a part of the fun. What's even more thrilling is the fact Mila isn't exactly best friends with one of the other guests that'll be attending.
Between the two of them, Alastor and Mila have created a week full of fun for the thriller authors, but no one knows that the latter is willing to kill the guest she's not a fan of. Before she can act, someone else is found dead and it has nothing to do with Mila.
Whoever is doing the killing knows every single trick there is to murder someone and disappear into obscurity which makes Mila wonder why she was truly chosen to host a retreat.
Amazon
Kills Well With Others by Deanna Raybourn (March 11, 2025)
After the events of Killers of a Certain Age, Billie, Helen, Mary Alice, and Natalie are back. Having survived the events that threatened their lives, they're ready to get back to work instead of biding their time at different classes that have no thrill to them.
Their prayers are answered when the head of the Museum calls them to complete the toughest mission they've ever faced. There's a mole within the organization that's connected kills to a powerful Eastern European figure and is eliminating them one by one. What makes it difficult for Billie, Helen, Mary Alice, and Natalie is the fact they're next in line to receive this mole's special attention.
They'll have to use their wits and experience to uncover this person's identity before it's too late.
Amazon
Claire, Darling by Callie Kazumi (March 11, 2025)
Claire goes from excited to devastated to raging mad when she realizes her fiancé 'Noah' has seemingly disappeared from the face of the earth. What started off as a sweet lunch surprise for him turned into the heartbreaking realization that he's avoiding her.
When Claire finally discovers 'Noah's' other life — one that includes his actual girlfriend — she begins spiraling into obsession. She's willing to take him back if he'll just explain why he lied to her. The problem with obsession is that it can bring out the worst parts of our past and personalities.
It'll be up to Claire to decide if she's willing to stop letting the ghost of her scheming mother haunt her or if she'll succumb to the effects of her childhood trauma.
Amazon
All the Other Mothers Hate Me by Sarah Harman (March 11, 2025)
Florence Grimes is in her early thirties and has still maintained her carefree [read: lazy] approach to life. She's also a single mom who's career didn't pan out the way she'd hope it would. Her son Dylan is the only reason she gets up and attempts to try every morning. Life seems normal until Dylan's bully — Alfie Risby — doesn't come home after a class trip and everyone places the blame on Florence's son.
Suddenly having to do more than she's ever done in the past few years, Florence decides to figure out what happened to Alfie so Dylan isn't implicated any further. There's just one little problem: she's unliked by other mothers and she doesn't think Dylan is telling everything he knows.
Amazon
Gothictown by Emily Carpenter (March 25, 2025)
Billie Hope's prayers are answered when she's given the chance to purchase a gorgeous Victorian home in Juliana, Georgia for $100. Anyone else wouldn't touch this offer with a 10-foot pole, but it's just the thing Billie's been waiting for. It'll give her a chance to leave bustling NYC behind and all of the pain that followed her family once she was forced to close her restaurant. And that's the other thing — the offer to buy the new home comes with the promise of a business grant to help her open a new eatery!
It doesn't take long for Billie, her husband Peter, and their young daughter Meredith to move to Juliana. They start to settle into their new life, oblivious to the tiny red flags that keep appearing. Over time, Billie begins having nightmares coupled with the hardships her marriage begins facing. Also, the town's elders continue to make their presence known in uncomfortable ways.
Despite the sugary sweet charm of the south, Billie begins wondering if she made a grave decision by moving her family to Juliana.
Amazon
This Book Will Bury Me by Ashley Winstead (March 25, 2025)
The death of Jane Sharp's father has left her looking for an escape from her heavy feelings so she turns to true crime as a distraction. The further she goes, the more Jane becomes close to those who've also turned to studying methods of killers so they can spot patterns from a mile away. It's exactly what leads Jane and her friends to try to solve the mysterious deaths of college students in Delphine, Idaho.
Convinced the police aren't telling the truth about what happened, Jane and her friends try to start solving the case themselves. But, nothing is as clear as they'd hope it would be and they're convinced that someone may be waiting until the right moment to trap them.
Though she survived what happened in Delphine, Jane's never talked about it until now.
Amazon
The Perfect Divorce by Jeneva Rose (April 15, 2025)
Attorney Sarah Morgan's life has moved forward after she successfully proved her ex-husband Adam didn't kill the woman he had an affair with. With her new husband Bob Miller, all that matters is the bright future she's envisioned for herself. Unfortunately, Bob follows in Adam's footsteps by cheating and this angers Sarah.
It seems that her decision to file for divorce from him creates a ricochet effect that results in her ex-husband's case being reopened. Not only will Sarah have to deal with getting divorced, she'll also have to face the fact that some things don't stay buried.
Amazon
The Murder Show by Matt Goldman (April 15, 2025)
Ethan Harris was once a popular showrunner whose series The Murder Show used to bring in high ratings. Following a private detective who solved hard cases, it was a fan favorite until the network decides Ethan's latest pitch isn't cutting it for them.
This sends him on a journey back home to Minnesota where he runs into his former classmate Ro Greeman. As luck would have it, she's a police officer who's recently started looking into the death of the friend Ricky. Though he was killed one summer, nothing truly was uncovered about his murder until now.
Ro feels that it'll be a great idea for Ethan to help figure out what really happened, encouraging him to pitch the hit and run death for The Murder Show. Ethan feels there's more to Ricky's death, but he agrees to the idea so their friend can receive the justice he never got.
But, Ethan and Ro have no idea what they've signed up.
Amazon
You Can't Hurt Meby Emma Cook (November 5, 2025)
Eva Reid was born without the ability to feel an ounce of pain no matter how mild or severe it is. As such, she's gained popularity for something that's rare and is consistently being attended to by everyone — including her husband, scientist Dr. Nate Reid, and journalist Anna Tate. That's why it's so shocking when Eva is found dead in her own home.
Anna begins to become obsessive about Eva's life, career, and the fact she was Dr. Nate Reid's patient before becoming his wife. Their seems to be more to the couple than they'd let on and Anna is determined to figure out what these things were.
Under the impression that she'd like to help Dr. Reid complete an extensive novel about Eva, Anna begins hunting for the truth every chance she gets. It's not that she won't find it, but more so she'll be shocked when she realizes who the Reids were and what darkness awaits her.
The Most-Anticipated Family-Themed Books Of 2025
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The Rules of Fortune by Danielle Prescod (February 1, 2025)
Written by veteran journalist Danielle Prescod, The Rules of Fortune follows the lives of the Carter Family. True to tradition, they gather for a moment of celebration in Martha's Vineyard and expect nothing out of the ordinary to happen. But when the patriarch dies, the media quickly swoops in with questions about the family's booming business. At the center of it all is Kennedy Carter.
She planned to debut a documentary she'd been working on prior to her father's death, but her plans shift when she begins wondering about who her father was. She's never cared for the niceties of coming from a wealthy family or the ruthless nature it takes to have the things they've been afforded.
The more she digs into her father's past, the more she realizes how little she knew about her family's empire and will be faced with a moral task that will follow her for the rest of her life.
Amazon
The Motherload: Episodes from the Brink of Motherhood by Sarah Hoover (January 14, 2025)
Sarah Hoover wants everyone to cut the BS about the "sunshine and rainbows" aspect of motherhood. She peels back that first layer and dives into everything else that happens when you become a mother in The Motherload: Episodes from the Brink of Motherhood.
Having painted a picture of the life she wanted to live, Sarah Hoover seemed like she was on the right path when she moved to NYC as an art history major and later secured a role in an art gallery. She didn't have a shortage of friends and even met her husband during this time. Unfortunately, her pregnancy upended what she thought was a perfect life.
She stopped feeling sure of herself and began to push everyone away as she grappled with everything from anxiety to shame. It didn't help that one of doctors traumatized her either. And when she gave birth? She didn't feel the flood of emotions other mothers did and it was confusing because she couldn't understand what was wrong with her.
Sadly, Sarah didn't realize she was dealing with a severe case of postpartum depression that would take time to heal from. Having made it through to the other side, Sarah's ready to normalize the other side of the picture-perfect view of motherhood.
Amazon
We All Live Here by Jojo Moyes (February 11, 2025)
Lila Kennedy's suffering in the wake of having an unhappy marriage, daughters who won't listen, and more. She doesn't even know what's going on with her career anymore and feels like everything is in limbo.
Life seems to think she needs more hiccups when her dad decides to enter her life again. The wound he left when he decided to pursue a life in Hollywood over three decades ago is reopened, leaving Lila on the brink of exploding. Instead of doing that, her father's presence begins to crack the wall around her heart and teach everyone the most important lessons about having a family you love.
Amazon
Tiltby Emma Pattee (March 4, 2025)
Annie is looking forward to the end of her nine-month pregnancy and is almost at the finish line when a detrimental earthquake shocks her town in Portland, Oregon. Having been at IKEA when it struck, she's left without a means to contact anyone which forces her to try to walk through destruction.She comes across others who are in need of help and even experiences the care of people she's never met before. The more Annie walks, the more she begins unpacking thinks about her marriage and her thoughts surrounding motherhood in a way that makes her want to approach life differently.
Amazon
The Californians by Brian Castleberry (March 11, 2025)
Tobey Harlan's down on his luck in 2024, and he's willing to do anything to secure a better life for himself even if it means stealing three valuable pieces of artwork from his father. The Northern California wildfire stole his last shred of hope so he's willing to work with a shady person so he can move far away.
100 years before that, Klaus Aronsohn finesses his way into the film industry by reinventing himself as director Klaus von Stiegl. People buy into what he's selling and he begins to go after everything Hollywood has to offer. However, his career halts while he's directing the controversial TV show Brackett.
In between Tobey and Klaus' story lies that of the latter's granddaughter. Diane "Di" Stiegl began to make a career for herself as an artist in NYC during the 80s who manages to use art to paint a tale of the American presidency and pop culture at the time. Somehow this garners her the things her grandfather tried to hold onto.
Amazon
Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh (April 8, 2025)
Claire and Aaron Litvak's horrible divorce seems to be the least of their concern when their young daughter Lindsey is involved in a terrible car accident. They rush to her side at the hospital and wait with bated breath to see if their daughter will survive or not. Somehow this begins to not only unravel what caused Claire and Aaron to get divorced, but the former couple will begin to look at why Lindsey stopped talking to them. The only person who knows everything about Lindsey is her sister Grace.
Deciding to stay in Shanghai, Claire and Aaron struggle to adjust. Over time, they deal with the fact Lindsey's life may end along with the idea that she may have been hiding much bigger secrets.
Amazon
The Bright Yearsby Sarah Damoff (April 22, 2025)
Ryan and Lillian Bright are in love with each other as well as the fact their young infant Georgette has been born. Everything seems great aside from the fact Lillian and Ryan are hiding things from each other. One has a secret son while the other grapples with a terrible alcohol addiction that manifests in huge ways as Georgette grows.
Things eventually reach a boiling point, leaving Georgette feeling jaded by the parents she thought she knew. It's around this time her half-brother begins searching for the his true family that pulls Georgette back. Somehow, they'll have to ask themselves if family is worth forgiving or not.
Old School Indian by Aaron John Curtis (May 6, 2025)
Abe Jacobs' unexpected diagnoses rattles him, but it also leads him back home to the Mohawk Reservation. It's the same place he was born and decided to leave once he became an adult. Somehow his healing journey, aided by his great uncle, exposes the parts of himself he's buried and allows him to see there's still much to look forward to in life.
The Most-Anticipated Fantasy Books Of 2025
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The Outcast Mage by Annabel Campbell (January 28. 2025)
Though Nalia is one of the many gifted students who attend Amoria's prestigious academy, she's the only one who doesn't know how to control the magic in her veins. Time is dwindling down which leaves her at a crossroads — learn how to get things under control, become an outcast, or allow her magic to control her.
Things are made even worse when her life has to be saved by Haelius Akana, a well-known powerful mage. However, he quickly takes to her and begins do his best to teach her everything he knows. But, Haelius isn't free from disdainful eyes either and they'll do whatever the can to sabotage Naila's lessons.
Naila will have to do everything she can to learn about her magic or stand present as violence consumes Amoria.
Amazon
Ambessa: Chosen of the Wolf by C. L. Clark (February 18, 2025)
Ambessa Medarda is one of the most fearless women. Not only is she a mother, but she's proven herself ten times over as a general and warrior. It's to the point where everyone knows the Medardas can be ruthless when they're on a mission. In Ambessa's case, this has allowed her to reach the level of leading the Noxian empire. But, there's one person that stands in her way: her cousin and former friend, Ta'Fik.
He alone knows everything about Ambessa and doesn't believe she should be afforded such a powerful opportunity. This causes a split in the Medarda clan as family members because choosing sides. Among those who remain loyal to Ambessa is her daughter Mel. She's able to soften anyone's heart except her own mother. Ambessa doesn't think Mel has what it takes to fight for her right to rule, but that doesn't stop Mel from trying.
It's the reason why she's so willing to thrust herself in harm's way to prove her and her mother's worth...
The Most-Anticipated Self-Improvement & Spiritual Books Of 2025
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Happy to Help by Amy Wilson (January 7, 2025)
Amy Wilson's people-pleasing nature stems from her childhood. From being an elder sister to becoming a mom of three, she's always loved to help others. But this quickly spiraled into sacrificing her needs and wants so others were always taken care of first.
This caused her to question why she'd allow herself to become a people-pleaser and she sought to delegate her tasks to others. Fed up with the way no one seemed to want to help, she decided that maybe she wasn't the only one with a problem.
Amazon
Intention Obession: Rituals and Witchcraft for Every Season by Erica Feldmann (January 14, 2025)
There's no need to fear because magic is here! Rather, it's always been around us. Erica Feldmann's goal is to show us how to tap into it through self-care and other other rituals that are simpler than we think. In other words, this is the book you'll want to dive into if you're truly fed up with hustle culture.
Feldmann takes great care to prioritize Intention Obsession by the zodiac so we're able to learn about each's archetypal powers. There's also a host of "DIY projects" that range from starting your own garden to hosting an epic dinner party!
Amazon
Beyond Anxiety: Curiosity, Creativity, and Finding Your Life's Purpose by Martha Beck (January 7, 2025)
It's no secret that anxiety has permeated every facet of our society, but Dr. Martha Beck wants to negate the fact we can simply think good thoughts to rid ourselves of being stuck in "fight or flight" mode. She pinpoints why we're seeing rising cases of anxiety and how it can be used as a tool instead of something to get ride of.
Backed by neuroscience and her own background, Beck helps us understand the way our brains work and why they seem to gravitate towards an "anxiety spiral." She also shows how we can nurture our "creativity spiral" more so we can reach for more joy.
Amazon
Go Higher: Five Practices for Purpose, Success, and Inner Peace by Big Sean (January 21, 2025)
You may know him as the successful rapper Big Sean, but Sean Anderson proves there's more to him than meets the eye in Go Higher: Five Practices for Purpose, Success, and Inner Peace. Despite his success, he's still experienced highs and lows like everyone else, even going as far to name his anxiety and depression.
He introduces readers to key moments that shaped his life — from signing with Kanye West to learning how to cultivate healthy relationships with others. Along the way, Sean has learned how to self-reflect and do the work to become a better person which is why he decided to write Go Higher: Five Practices for Purpose, Success, and Inner Peace.
Outlined as accepting, strategizing, trying, trusting, and manifesting, these five practices will help you work out your day to day life in a way that feels practical.
Amazon
Single: Living a Complete Life on Your Own Terms by Nicola Slawson (February 11, 2025)
Journalist Nicola Slawson has had it with the idea that something is wrong with single women. Originally covering topics that uplifted single women via her newsletter The Single Supplement, she decided to formulate everything she's discovered into Single: Living a Complete Life on Your Own Terms. Readers will find charming and welcoming anecdotes about being single that doesn't feel like trauma dumping. She knows it's not always easy to live a single life, but she doesn't want you to succumb to the idea that it's impossible to find joy.
Amazon
Me, But Betterby Olga Khazan (March 11, 2025)
Olga Khazan couldn't figure out why she was unhappy despite having a beautiful relationship and the career she'd always wanted. She's always known she's been an overachiever, but she started to fear that it was getting in the way of her enjoying the fruits of her labor. Thus began an experiment that lasted 365 days.
She wanted to know if it's possible to completely change your personality so she dived into the five traits that make it up — extroversion, conscientiousness, agreeableness, openness, and neuroticism. Based on the research she looked at, Olga realized that consistency plays a role in shaping or changing our personalities — except she had to do a ton of faking to even remotely see a change.
What she found is everything she's willing to share in Me, But Better, but it doesn't end the way you think it does.
Amazon
Renegade Grief: A Guide to the Wild Ride of Life After Loss by Carla Fernandez (March 11, 2025)
Experiencing loss and the subsequent grief that often follows in inevitable, but what happens when time seems to move on in the midst of your heartache? Carla Fernandez explores this in Renegade Grief by sharing how she navigated life once her father passed. She helped found The Dinner Party to help teens and kids face death head-on instead of pretending it's something that shouldn't be discussed.
You'll find stories of people who experienced true grief and what they learned in the process. In turn, it'll serve as a guide that none of us are as alone as we think when suffering from loss. Even more, you'll be inspired to find ways to learn how to start living again.
Amazon
How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriouslyby Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo (April 15, 2025)
Besties Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo are bringing Giggly Squad to a bookshelf near you next year! Known for their infectious laughter and sheer joy, they're ready to help readers lean into the joy of laughing. Covering topics that range from spotting red flags in all relationships to being a little delulu to accomplish your heart's desires, you'll feel like your own best friends are talking to you.
And yes, you'll find conversations about sex, social media no-nos, and more in How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously.
The Most-Anticipated Historical Books Of 2025
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Give Her Credit by Grace L. Williams (January 1, 2025)
Though feminism was gaining popularity in the '70s, women were still receiving the lower end of the financial stick. Did you know women weren't allowed to have credit unless their father or husband co-signed for them or that income was scoffed at if you weren't a man? All of this ran rampant until the Women's bank opened.
Grace L. Williams dives into that and more in Give Her Credit, shining a light on how women like B. LaRae Orullian, Carol Green, Judi Foster, and more changed the way the world looked at women's finances. They dared to break barriers in Denver so that marginalized communities would have the resources to do the unthinkable — kind of like how we've been doing ever since.
Amazon
Jane Austen's Bookshelf by Rebecca Romney (February 18, 2025)
Book dealer Rebecca Romney has always loved reading Jane Austen's work because she appreciates how the author has always centered women, but she always wondered about other writers who dared to do the unthinkable during a time where women weren't taken as seriously.
Though she knew Jane Austen had to have been influenced by them, Romney wanted to know more about them. To her surprise, it was hard to find information on the other great literary minds of during that time that weren't men. So, Romney decided to write Jane Austen's Bookshelf to uncover where these women went by highlighting names like Ann Radcliffe, Elizabeth Inchbald, and Maria Edgeworth.
By the time you finish reading this insightful novel, you may feel compelled to do a bit of research yourself!
Amazon
Smother by Rachel Richardson (February 18, 2025)
Rachel Richardson's new poetry collection examines a question we've all asked ourselves: "Can children be raised in a world plagued with climate control issues?" As a mother who's grieving the loss of a dear friend, Richardson lyrically documents the Californian fires via poems filled with despair and other heavy emotions. She also finds a way to connect the world's burning to the injustices and changes women's bodies experience in a lifetime.
Smother is beautifully written and invites us to find ways to answer tough questions while sitting with emotions we'd rather run from.
Most Anticipated Cookbooks
Amazon
Eat What Elephants Eat: Vegan Recipes for a Strong Body and a Gentle Spirit by Dominick Thompson (January 7, 2025)
Kick off the new year with a very promising cookbook full of the yummiest vegan recipes I've ever seen! You'll find 80 meals you can easily recreate at home from Saturday Morning Nostalgia Pancakes to Jackfruit Tacos with Mango-Corn Salsa and Avocado "Cream." My mouth is already watering thinking about how amazing these recipes will taste.
Amazon
The Fishwife Cookbook: Delightful Tinned Fish Recipes for Every Occasion by Becca Millstein & Vilda Gonzalez (February 25, 2025)
Think you can't create a ton of meals based on tinned fish? Think again because The Fishwife Cookbook wants to debunk that myth. These recipe are for the busy soul who can't be bothered to thaw out fish and want to spend more time binge watching Sullivan's Crossing like they've never seen it. You'll find everything from Tinned Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs (OMG!) to Lamb Bolognese with Cantabrian Anchovies! If you ask us, these recipes sound like the best thing to eat while sipping a nice glass of wine!
Visit out Amazone Storefront to read our top fall 2024 book picks before pre-ordering these 2025 finds!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
Did you know how common eczema really is? According to the National Eczema Association, "more than 31 million people" are living with this condition — including everyone in my household. If you've been dealing with flare-ups since childhood, you know how irksome it can be to find products that avoid flagging down our body's internal inflammation guide. Anything from extreme temperatures to itchy fabric can make our bodies say, "Attack the part of the body that's in contact with the intruder!" It can be something super small that turns into a fiasco, but we're not condemned to suffer forever.
I've been using the best body wash for eczema all year — Dove's Soothing Relief Body Wash — and I can't wait to dish about it! But, I thought it would be helpful to learn more about the condition and why certain things make it go haywire. Board-certified dermatologists Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd and Dr. Kristina Collins were kind enough to share informative answers about eczema, including what they think you should be using if you're tired of not knowing what to use!
- Dr. Woolery-Lloyd is an internationally recognized dermatology and wellness expert who serves as Director of the Skin of Color Division for the University of Miami Department of Dermatology.
- Dr. Collins specializes in Mohs micrographic surgery, as well as surgical and cosmetic surgery, having earning her M.D. as valedictorian from Vanderbilt University.
Check out the best body wash for eczema here:
- Dove Soothing Relief Body Wash
- Vanicream Gentle Body Wash
- Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash
- Cetaphil Pro Dry Skin Soothing Wash
- CeraVe Soothing Body Wash
- Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash
- Kopari Hydrating Body Wash
The Best Body Wash For Eczema-Prone Skin
Target
This fragrance-free body wash stays in my shower not only because it's doesn't have pesky (and irritating) perfumes, but it's also super soothing. I feel like I'm at a spa each time I use it, and I've definitely noticed my skin isn't dry when I get out of the shower. It has a 5% nourishing serum in it along with colloidal oatmeal and was co-created by dermatologists who get it. The best part is that it not only does my skin look better, but I haven't experienced much body acne with it either. Plus, Amazon's customers less likely to return it!
Prior to using this, I was an avid Bath & Body Works body wash user. Before you throw tomatoes at me, I didn't know how much they were affecting my skin until I started doing more research in college. Once I learned better, I stopped using them and haven't looked back.
Another alternative to this is something Dr. Woolery-Lloyd suggests using — Dove's Sensitive Skin Body Wash. I used to use it prior to falling in love with Soothing Relief formula because it's hypoallergenic and equally moisturizing. It's just a little creamier!
Customer Reviews For Dove's Soothing Relief Body Wash
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Some of the top reviews on Amazon for this body wash are:
- "I absolutely love this wonderful, silky, smooth, make you feel so sexy type of body wash! I have eczema & to find a body wash that works for me is saying A LOT! For having sensitive skin, I love how this is fragrance free, my skin is smooth & soft, not dry or dried out, not itchy, & great for after shaving, no razor bumps or redness!"
- "This seems to have really improved my skin. It's great for sensitive skin."
- "This has NO SCENT. Not even a weird “unscented” scent- you other itchy folk know what I’m talking about.
Creamy but lathers like a dream and you only need like two pumps! Rinses off easily. Skin doesn’t feel dry or tight or… itchy! Like, at all! I will be ordering this over and over!" - "I have uber sensitive skin and have to be very careful in which products I use. This product feels really nice on my skin and has a positive, moisturizing and calming effect. I would highly recommend."
Other Great Body Washes For Eczema:
Amazon
Vanicream Gentle Body Wash
Dr. Woolery-Lloyd and Dr. Collins both recommend this body wash for those who have eczema: "It's free of dyes, fragrance, lanolin, and other common irritants.This product helps maintain moisture and reduce irritation, making it suitable for regular use," says Dr. Collins.
Amazon
Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash
Dr. Collins loves Aveeno's Skin Relief Body Wash because it "contains colloidal oatmeal, which is soothing and helps relieve itching."
Amazon
Cetaphil Pro Dry Skin Soothing Wash
"It's soap-free, fragrance-free, and designed for sensitive skin," says Dr. Collins.
More Eczema-Friendly Body Wash Recommendations
Amazon
CeraVe Soothing Body Wash
This body wash has more of an oil consistency because of the Omega Oils found in it. They help to add moisture back to dry skin while Niacinamide helps soothe it if you've been experiencing irritation.
Amazon
Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash
This hydrating body wash may start off as an oil, but it quickly forms into a rich, moisturizing lather that we love. Although it's not specifically designed for eczema-prone skin, but the good news is that it works for everyone. It has over 50% glycerin and phyto lipids in to help "maintain healthy skin barrier and acid mantle" so you'll enjoy something luxurious for only $16!
Amazon
Kopari Hydrating Body Wash
This hydrating body wash has moisturizing coconut water and sea kelp in it, making it the vegan option you'll be glad you tried. It also has aloe vera juice in it which helps maintain the skin's collagen.
What is eczema?
Eczema isn't necessarily a secret, but not everyone knows how it's actually defined or characterized. Both Dr. Woolery-Lloyd and Dr. Collins agree that eczema is also referred to as atopic dermatitis. Dr. Collins says, "It's a chronic skin condition characterized by inflamed, itchy, and often red or discolored patches on the skin. It can affect people of all ages but is commonly seen in children." The Asthma & Allergy Network reports "15-20% of children globally" have it which seems to coincide with the CDC discovering "nearly 1 in 5 children have a seasonal allergy." Dr. Woolery-Lloyd adds, "It tends to run in families." This makes sense because my mom had eczema, passed it on to me, and now my son has it!
She also says, "People with mild eczema may experience persistent dryness and itchiness, while more severe cases can lead to painful, cracked, and even bleeding skin." While it's not central to one location, Dr. Woolery-Lloyd says eczema commonly shows up "inside of the elbows, behind the knees, and the face."
Some cases of eczema differs from others, but it can become severe. The reason it exists in the body is because of "a dysfunction in the skin barrier" that leads to "an increased loss of moisture and heightened sensitivity to external irritants, allergens, and microbes," Dr. Collins expounds.
What triggers eczema flare-ups?
I briefly mentioned some things that can trigger eczema flare-ups, but they're not all encompassing. Dr. Collins says, "Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by several factors, including environmental irritants (like certain fabrics, soaps, and fragrances), allergens (such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen), stress, dry or cold weather, and even certain foods in some individuals."
If your dermatologist suspects you may be allergic to something you're eating, they may want you to take an allergy test. This is how I found out I was allergic to a ton of environmental factors, cats, and dogs! But why does this happen, you ask? "The skin’s barrier function is compromised in eczema-prone individuals, making it more reactive to these external and internal triggers," says Dr. Collins. So, it's rarely your fault when your skin gets triggered!
Dr. Woolery-Lloyd also says "emotional stress can exacerbate eczema symptoms" as well! This is usually my first sign that I'm super stressed or heading towards burnout!
How can someone with eczema care for their skin during cooler months?
My son has been seeing a dermatologist for the past couple of months, and she's made it clear that he needs to not only avoid certain factors (fragrances, itchy fabrics, etc), but she also let us know his skin actually requires we add other elements to his routine, too. Both Dr. Collins and Dr. Woolery-Lloyd want you to stay as moisturized as possible.
Dr. Collins says, "During cooler months, it’s essential to focus on hydrating and protecting the skin barrier." Her tips are to"
- Moisturize regularly with rich, fragrance-free creams or ointments.
- Use a humidifier indoors to combat dry air.
- Take lukewarm showers and avoid hot water, which can further dry out the skin.
- Wear soft, breathable fabrics to avoid irritation, especially when layering.
- Avoid long showers, as prolonged exposure to water can dehydrate the skin.
Dr. Woolery-Lloyd echoes her sentiments. "In the winter, people with eczema should consider switching to a more hydrating moisturizer to combat dry winter skin and prevent an eczema flare. Reapplication of the moisturizer is also important. This is especially important for the hands since taking gloves on and off on windy winter days can cause the hands to be especially vulnerable to dryness and eczema."
In other words, keep your moisturizer handy because you never know when you'll need to reapply it throughout the day!
Which products and ingredients should people with eczema avoid?
Over the years, I've learned that anything that has artificial fragrances in them tends to trigger itchy and splotchy hives. Sometimes they're tiny clusters, but they can look like welts if my skin is super irritated. Dr. Collins says, "Individuals with eczema should avoid products with harsh fragrances, alcohol, sulfates, and synthetic dyes, as these can irritate the skin further." Also, sodium lauryl suflate (SLS) is also good to avoid because it "can strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness," explains Dr. Collins. Sadly, she feels you shouldn't use popular "exfoliating ingredients" like salicylic acid or retinoids because they "can be too harsh for sensitive, eczema-prone skin."
A list of other things Dr. Woolery-Lloyd wants you to avoid are:
- Harsh surfactants - Harsh surfactants, such as sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
- Alcohol - Alcohol can be drying to the skin, which can worsen eczema.
- Essential oils - Essential oils can be irritating to the skin and can trigger a flare-up of eczema.
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) - Acids in skincare can be irritating to eczema-prone skin.
- Dyes - Dyes can sometimes irritate eczema-prone skin and can trigger a flare-up of eczema.
She encourages you to "read product labels carefully."
What are good eczema-friendly body washes?
Amazon
Knowing this, both Dr. Collins and Dr. Woolery-Lloyd want you to use a body wash that's going to cleanse your skin instead of hurting it. "For eczema-prone skin, it’s best to choose gentle, fragrance-free body washes that are formulated to support the skin barrier," says Dr. Collins.
Follow our Amazon Storefront for more beauty products we love!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
With the holidays now approaching almost eerily quickly, you might already be feeling slightly uneasy about the family stresses that are bound to be on your plate (along with delicious Christmas cookies, of course). Spending a lot of time face-to-face with family can dig up old arguments or squabbles that everyone may have forgotten during the rest of the year.
Learn the 8 best ways to support your friend while they're in the middle of family drama
You’re not the only one dealing with the drama, though, and while your own family issues might feel somewhat out of your control, there might be more you can do to take the edge off the stress that your friends are feeling in anticipation of holiday gatherings. Keep scrolling for eight expert tips for how to best offer support to your most stress-ridden BFFs.
1. Listen without judging if your friend reveals an ongoing argument about a family will
Being a good listener is one of the most basic — and yet most important — things you can do as a friend 365 days of the year, but when tensions run high near the holidays, those listening skills become all the more crucial. You might even consider resisting the urge to speak, like, at all. “Be a good listener and don’t give advice,” licensed marriage and family therapist Katie Ziskind says. “Supporting someone doesn’t mean that you have to fix their problem. Instead, truly being supportive means giving a hug when someone is crying and being a caring friend.”
2. Prep your pal to expect drama if your uncle's invited his new girlfriend and ex to dinner
Rather than reassuring your friend that things at family celebrations may not be as bad as they fear, trust what they know about the situation and help them wrap their head around what’s to come. This should minimize the stress for them in the long run. “If you expect it and it happens, situation normal,” certified life coach Susan Golicic tells us. “If you expect it and it doesn’t, well, then, a bonus!”
3. Help your bestie make a plan in case their fight-or-flight mode gets triggered
Going into any situation with a plan almost always feels better than going in unprepared. Per writer, speaker, and healing expert Alisa Zipursky, a helpful plan might include specific check-in times, a code word that indicates your friend needs extra support, and ideas for creating healthy boundaries with family members who make them feel especially triggered. “The idea is to make asking for help as easy as possible,” Zipursky says. “Making sure a proactive plan is in place well before someone enters the stressful situation can help relieve some of the anticipatory anxiety.”
4. Check in often by sending your friend periodic texts
Licensed counselor Maria Inoa recommends that you prioritize regular touch-base texts over the course of whatever event is causing your friend the most stress. It’s not about solving the conflicts or taking away their pain. Instead, you can focus on offering gentle reminders that you are thinking of them and are available if they need you.
5. Create a new tradition that revolves around you and and your bestie's favorite Christmas movies
If your friend’s family holiday celebrations don’t exactly inspire positive feelings about the occasion, why not help them establish some better associations? Licensed clinical professional counselor Anna Poss suggests planning a “low-stress, fun way to celebrate with each other before or after the actual holiday.” Get a seasonal movie night or cookie swap on the calendar before everyone leaves town to hang with family. Those cozy vibes may help dull the negative, anxious feelings.
6. Write down words of affirmations for them to look at
Grab some pretty stationery and put your love and support on paper for your BFF. “In the note, remind her how strong, courageous, and capable she is,” licensed psychotherapist and life coach Diane Petrella says. “Let her know how much you love and admire her and how grateful you are for her friendship. Write whatever you think your friend needs to hear to feel supported, grounded, and loved.” Remind her to hide the note in her pocket or bag so she can read it whenever she needs a little extra TLC over the course of the holidays. You can even go one step further and send them home with a care package, per therapistShannon Thomas.
7. Invite your friend to your family celebration
If things have gotten so bad with your bestie’s family that she wants to steer clear of their celebrations entirely, you may want to invite her to join you and your crew instead. Even if she opts to decline your invitation, it will mean a lot to her to know that she has choices. If your friend does take you up on the offer, Mountainside Treatment Center‘s family wellness manager Tina Muller recommends that you try to incorporate some of her favorite traditions into your holiday schedule.
8. Keep your phone nearby if your friend needs to talk about everything that happened
“Before an event with possible family issues even happens, schedule a time not long after to see the friend,” marriage and family therapist Sarah Epstein suggests. “Now you’ve become the light at the end of the tunnel for them.” Be prepared to be a listening ear over dinner or a workout session so your pal can vent about everything that’s gone on and (hopefully) be ready to move on from there.
How do you and your pals support each other through the not-so-fun parts of the holidays? Tweet us @BritandCo.
(Photo via Getty)