best cream for soft hands

20 BEST 40TH-BIRTHDAY GIFTS TO RING IN THE NEXT DECADE

Turning 40 is a milestone worth celebrating in style, and the perfect gift can make it even more special. The best 40th-birthday gifts reflect the recipient’s personality and interests, ensuring they feel truly appreciated on their big day. Whether you’re shopping for a best friend, a hard-to-please family member, or a partner who seems to have everything, we’ve got something to impress them.

For a hassle-free option, a curated gift set is always a winner—especially if it includes indulgent beauty finds. Prefer a more personal touch? Create a themed gift box tailored to their interests, whether it’s a spa-inspired self-care kit, travel must-haves, or cozy home essentials. Personalized gifts, like a custom book or monogrammed accessories, show thoughtfulness and effort, making them extra meaningful. If you’re looking to go big—perhaps with a group gift or a luxurious splurge—an upscale item will leave a lasting impression.

Our golden rule for gifting? Choose something they wouldn’t typically buy for themselves but would be absolutely thrilled to receive. From thoughtful presents for women to fun finds for men and sentimental treasures for loved ones, our gift guide takes the guesswork out of shopping. Just don’t forget to top it off with a heartfelt, handwritten card they’ll cherish forever.

INSTANATURAL VITAMIN C TONER – $12.55 (AMAZON), $20.00

Give her skincare routine a refresh with this brightening toner. Infused with witch hazel, lavender, and botanical extracts, it helps cleanse and hydrate while combating signs of aging. One reviewer raved, “My skin looks hydrated and smoother instantly—so glad I tried this product!”

MOROCCANOIL SHOWER GEL CLEANSER – $20.00 (AMAZON, SEPHORA, MOROCCANOIL)

Treat her to a little luxury in the shower with this ultra-hydrating body wash. Former Shop TODAY editor Ellen Abraham describes it as “an affordable luxury that smells amazing and leaves your skin silky smooth.” Ideal for those with sensitive skin, this cleanser is a must-have.

AOA STUDIO PAW PAW COLLECTION GIFT SET – $25.55 (MISS A), $31.60

For the homebody who loves a little pampering, this set is a beauty lover’s dream. It includes cozy slippers, a highlighter set, a handheld mirror, and more for the ultimate self-care experience.

ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS MINI SPICE EYESHADOW PALETTE – $29.00 (ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS, ULTA, SEPHORA)

A makeup essential for everyday looks or glamorous nights out. Featuring warm and shimmery tones, this palette is a favorite among beauty lovers. Ellen Abraham says, “This timeless eyeshadow palette has everything you need for both natural and bold styles.”

DEARFOAMS EZ FEET SCUFF SLIPPER – $37.99 (WALMART)

After a long day, her feet will thank her for these ultra-cozy slippers. Made with 100% Australian sheepskin lining and plush cushioning, they provide ultimate comfort and warmth.

THE COMFY ORIGINAL OVERSIZED MICROFIBER & SHERPA WEARABLE BLANKET – $41.99 (AMAZON), $49.99 (QVC), $54.99

For someone who’s always cold, this wearable blanket is a game-changer. It’s oversized, ultra-soft, and perfect for lounging around the house—or even staying cozy outdoors.

BALA BANGLES – $55.00 (AMAZON, TARGET)

These stylish, adjustable weights add extra resistance to workouts, whether worn on wrists or ankles. A favorite among fitness enthusiasts, Bala Bangles are perfect for elevating her cardio sessions.

SAHIRA JEWELRY DESIGN DARIA HOOPS – $58.00 (SAHIRA)

A timeless jewelry piece, these tarnish-free gold hoops are a perfect addition to her accessory collection. Simple yet stylish, they’ll complement any outfit effortlessly.

ARTIS FINI COSMETIC BRUSH – $65.00 (HSN)

If she’s looking to upgrade her makeup tools, this premium blending brush is a must-have. Shop TODAY editor Rebecca Brown says, “I’d heard so much about Artis brushes—I tried it, and it’s hands down the best blending tool I own.”

SWEEJAR STORE PORCELAIN TEA SET – BRITISH ROYAL SERIES – $69.99 (AMAZON), $75.99

For lovers of historical dramas and elegant tea parties, this stunning tea set includes a teapot, teacups, saucers, a sugar bowl, a cream pitcher, and a stainless-steel strainer. Perfect for an afternoon of relaxation and conversation.

STILOSA ESPRESSO MACHINE BY DE’LONGHI – $75.99 (TARGET), $83.99, $99.95 (QVC)

A coffee lover’s dream! This compact yet powerful espresso machine makes barista-quality coffee at home. Senior Partnership Editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil says, “There’s truly no better way to start my day.”

RENÉE ROULEAU TRIPLE BERRY SMOOTHING PEEL – $88.50 (RENÉE ROULEAU)

This antioxidant-rich peel helps brighten and even skin tone, making it a skincare essential. “I use this peel weekly, and it has transformed my skin,” says Ellen Abraham.

VERA BRADLEY WEEKENDER TRAVEL BAG – $101.25 (VERA BRADLEY), $135.00

Spacious, stylish, and durable, this quilted weekender bag is perfect for quick getaways. Made of nylon, it’s lightweight yet sturdy—ideal for frequent travelers.

AERANGIS DISCOVERY JOURNEY GIFT SET – $110.00 (AERANGIS, ETSY)

If one candle isn’t enough, this set offers three signature scents, a wick trimmer, and a scent story card for a luxurious aromatherapy experience.

NEW YORK TIMES CUSTOM BIRTHDAY BOOK – $125.00 (UNCOMMON GOODS)

A thoughtful keepsake, this book compiles The New York Times front pages from every year since her birth—perfect for history buffs and nostalgic moments.

HATCH RESTORE SMART SLEEP ASSISTANT – $169.99 (HATCH)

For the woman who needs better sleep, this all-in-one device combines a sound machine, sunrise alarm, smart light, and meditation app to create the ultimate nighttime routine.

LILYSILK TRIMMED SILK WOMEN’S LONG-SLEEVE PAJAMA SET – $185.00 (LILYSILK)

Made from 100% grade 22 Momme Charmeuse silk, this ultra-luxurious pajama set is perfect for beauty sleep in style.

OSTRICHPILLOW GO NECK PILLOW – $69.00 (OSTRICHPILLOW, AMAZON)

Ideal for frequent travelers, this memory foam neck pillow offers 360-degree support for restful sleep—even on the most turbulent flights.

PERSONALIZED BOURBON BARREL FLIGHT WITH GLASSES – $85.00 (UNCOMMON GOODS)

For whiskey lovers and entertainers, this handcrafted bourbon barrel flight comes with four tasting glasses—perfect for a refined home bar setup.

EMBER TEMPERATURE CONTROL SMART MUG² – $121.99 (AMAZON), $127.99 (TARGET), $149.95 (QVC)

No more cold coffee! This smart mug keeps drinks at the perfect temperature for hours. One happy customer shared, “It truly keeps my beverage at the same set temperature long enough for me to enjoy every last drop at my own pace!”

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TRULY THE BEST CREPES I’VE EVER HAD

These crepes are hands down the best I’ve ever had—and trust me, I’ve been to France! Homemade is truly the way to go. This recipe is my absolute favorite! While crepes might remind you of pancakes because they’re flat and topped with goodies, that’s where the similarities end. They’re incredibly thin, but not crispy at all. Instead, they’re soft, flexible, and velvety, with a rich buttery flavor that will have you melting into your strawberries and cream. I’m going to show you exactly how to make these crepes step by step—so simple, you won’t believe it!

EQUIPMENT

  • 8-inch pan
  • Blender

INGREDIENTS

For the Crepes:

  • 2 cups whole milk (avoid using low-fat milk*)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons sugar (adjust for savory crepes, see notes)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla (skip for savory crepes, see notes)
  • 1 ½ cups flour (spooned and leveled)
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ cup butter (melted for the batter)
  • ½ cup butter (for cooking the crepes)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block), softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk (adjust for consistency)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla
  • ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Strawberry Filling:

  • 1 ½ pounds strawberries (sliced or quartered)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons strawberry jam

Other Filling Ideas:

  • Fresh lemon juice with powdered or granulated sugar
  • Nutella
  • Mixed berries
  • Cinnamon sugar
  • Whipped cream

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prep the Strawberries: Wash, hull, and slice or quarter the strawberries to your desired size. Place them in a serving bowl, then top with ¼ cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons strawberry jam. Stir to combine and let sit for about 20 minutes to macerate. For an extra boost, try making this Fresh Strawberry Topping, which involves condensing the jam first.
  • Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese for 1 minute until smooth. Add ½ cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, ½ teaspoon vanilla, and ⅛ teaspoon salt. Beat until well combined and smooth, then transfer to a serving bowl.
  • Make the Crepe Batter: In a blender, combine 2 cups whole milk and 4 eggs. Add 3 tablespoons sugar and 1 tablespoon vanilla (omit vanilla for savory crepes). Add 1 ½ cups flour and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (make sure to spoon and level the flour). Blend until smooth. Melt ¼ cup butter in a small bowl, and while the blender is running on low, pour in the melted butter. Scrape the edges and ensure everything is well combined.
  • Cook the Crepes: Place an 8-inch pan over medium heat, allowing it to heat for 60-90 seconds. Have your butter and batter nearby. When the pan is hot, add about 2 teaspoons of butter and swirl it around to coat the pan. Use a ¼ cup measuring cup to pour 3-4 tablespoons of batter into the center of the pan. Quickly swirl the pan to spread the batter in a thin, even layer. If any holes form, patch them with a tiny bit of batter.
  • Cook the crepe for about 60 seconds or until the top looks dry and matte, with the bottom just beginning to turn golden. Carefully lift the edge with a spatula or chopsticks, then flip the crepe. Cook for another 10-20 seconds, just enough to set the batter without crisping the edges. The crepe should be soft and flexible.
  • Remove the crepe to a plate and continue cooking the rest, adjusting the heat as needed. If you see baby bubbles popping up before you flip the crepe, your pan is too hot—turn it down. Keep stacking the crepes as you cook them.

SERVE

Serve the crepes immediately, filled with your choice of toppings.

  • Strawberry Cream Cheese Crepes: Add cream cheese filling and strawberries to the center, then roll or fold.
  • Strawberry Nutella Crepes: Spread Nutella, top with strawberries, and roll or fold.
  • Lemon Sugar Crepes: Sprinkle with sugar and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top. Fold or roll and add lemon zest if desired.
  • Mixed Berry Cream Cheese Crepes: Add cream cheese and mixed berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries), then roll or fold.
  • Cinnamon Sugar Crepes: Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and roll or fold. Top with whipped cream.

Storage:

  • Crepes: Stack cooked crepes on a large plate. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. No need to separate them with wax or parchment paper.
  • Batter: Store unused batter in a sealed container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Stir before using. If it thickens, add milk a tablespoon at a time to adjust the consistency.

Notes: Whole milk is essential for the crepes to hold together and not tear. Low-fat milk will result in more delicate crepes that are prone to tearing.