These Are The Best Gifts of 2022: The Giving Good Gift Guide

You’ll want to bookmark this gift guide: Gifts that give back, are good for the earth and good for health & wellness

 

If you’re tired of giving the same boring gifts (looking at you, generic gift cards) or temporary trinkets that will end up in landfills, we’ve got you covered. We’ve curated a selection of unique and thoughtful gifts that will delight everyone on your list this year.

 

We asked our community of conscious consumers and social impact champions: What are your favorite eco-friendly or social impact products? From this, we received hundreds of responses and have narrowed down this guide to the best of the best, focusing on products and causes that share the same values we do: Sustainability. Clean ingredients. Good for our communities. Good for our Earth.

 

(Note: We do not get any commissions or rewards for these links. This list is truly guided by our community of conscious consumers.)

 

And because it’s better to give than to receive, don’t be afraid to give yourself a little end-of-year treat. It’s for a good cause, after all.

  

 

 

1.  GIFTS THAT GIVE BACK

 

 

MADE by DWC

MADE is a purpose driven social enterprise created by the Downtown Women’s Center (DWC) in Los Angeles to empower women to break the cycle of chronic homelessness through employment. They make and offer a variety of products and gifts, like candles, bath/body and apparel, and 100% of your purchase empowers women transitioning out of homelessness. Now that's something to smile about.

View on:  madebydwc.org

 

 

Homeboy Industries

Homeboy Industries is a social impact organization that helps provide hope, training, and support to formerly gang-involved and previously incarcerated men and women – those who cannot find jobs or have poor credit scores. Every purchase of their fresh baked goods and merchandise helps former gang members with job skills, tattoo removal, anger management and parenting classes.

View on:  homeboyindustries.org

 

 

Everybody by Dutton Farm

Create 1 Hour of work for adults with disabilities with each $20 spent. It's A Win-Win. With every purchase you are making a direct impact on lowering the unemployment rate of adults with disabilities.

View on:  everybodyinc.com

 

 

Collette’s Cookies

Now here’s a delicious gift everyone will enjoy! Send someone you love a box of these “Amazing Cookies” this holiday season. Collette, Founder of Colletty’s Cookies, has Down Syndrome and is on a mission to create jobs for other people with disabilities.

View on:  colletteys.com

 

 

The Little Market

Shop by causes that matter to you like human trafficking, domestic abuse, indigenous populations and HIV. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is dedicated to the economic self-sufficiency of women worldwide through dignified income opportunities. Each piece is made following fair-trade principles, ultimately contributing to a life-changing sustainable income and giving back to the people who made it.

View on:  thelittlemarket.com

 

 

Piece By Piece

This is a social enterprise where individuals who have experienced homelessness and/or economic hardship create beautiful mosaic art. Many of the materials they use are re-purposed or upcycled, and last year alone, they used 1.5 tons of recycled materials!

View on:  www.piecebypiece.org 

 

 

Parks Project

For the hard-to-shop-for nature-lover on your list, consider supporting the conservation of their favorite US park. Using the proceeds from the comfiest t-shirts, socks and hoodies, the Parks Project has donated over $2.5 million in protecting natural parks throughout the United States (at the time of publishing this article).

View on:  parksproject.us

 

 

 

2. ECO-FRIENDLY GIFTS

 

 

Axiology

Named one of Forbes best stocking stuffers under $100, this is the first ever zero waste multi use makeup product. Our community of eco-warriors are obsessed with their best-selling Axiology Superfan pack: an incredibly versatile 14 color lip to eye lid product made with clean, natural ingredients and packaged in zero waste biodegradable packaging. 

View on:  prettywellbeauty.com and use code ZEROWASTE to save 10% off the Super fan pack until 11/28/22

 

 

Humanist Beauty

This conscious skincare brand has it all: plant-powered, B Corp Certified, EWG Verified, Leaping Bunny Certified Cruelty-Free, 100% vegan, accessible (they even offer braille labels!), formulated with plant wisdom, designed and manufactured in Los Angeles, and packaged with minimal plastic. Zero plastic is used in shipping and are partners with Terracycle and carbonfund.org partner.

View on:  humanistbeauty.com and use code ELIMS20 for 20% off through 12/31/22 

 

 

Moringaia Miracle Oil

Moringaia began as a mission to end deforestation by creating the demand for Moringa (also known as the "Miracle Tree") and giving back to their local community on the island of Quisqueya, Dominican Republic. And their Miracle Oil is a best-seller for a reason: this unfragranced formula made with 100% Single-Pressed Moringa Seed Oil is naturally packed with Omega 9 (Oleic Acid) to lock in moisture and make skin look plump while calming the skin and reducing the appearance of redness, while Vitamin E antioxidants protect from the elements. Made with over 500 Moringa Seeds in each bottle, this pure formula can be used on your face, body, and hair.

View on:  moringaia.com

 

 

RING BEAR Classic Tungsten Ring

The first carbon neutral assortment of men's wedding bands and rings. Their inclusively priced wedding bands with free personalization are great for couples getting married or already married and looking for a refresh. Our community members love the Classic Tungsten style with a comfort fit because it provides enhanced durability and is suited for every lifestyle. They are certified Carbonfree, made with recycled materials, and also plant trees with every purchase!

View on:  ringbear.com and use code ELIMS50 for $50 off

 

 

 

Queen of Cups Beauty Lip Balms

They’ll be ready for the mistletoe when you gift them lip care from Queen of Cups. Both sustainable and vegan, their products exfoliate, hydrate, and are the perfect compliment to an sustainable oral care routine.

View on:   Amazon

 

 

Contemplation

This woman founded brand believes self-care and caring for the environment are equally important. That's why they created My Only Oil - a multipurpose oil that's made from low waste, upcycled ingredients and nourishes & moisturizes from head to toe. Plus, every purchase helps give back to women and clean water initiatives around the globe, so you can feel good about taking care of yourself and the planet.

View on:  mycontemplation.com and use code SUSTY25 to get 25% off until 11/30/22

 

 

Anjolie Skincare

This gift under the tree is a gift from - and for - the sea! Not only does Anjolie Skincare use sustainably sourced seaweed as its primary ingredient, they also use glass packaging to reduce plastic waste, and give a portion of their profits to ocean conservation.

View on:  anjolienyc.com and use code is ELIMS20 for 20% off

 

 

Face Halo Pro Makeup Eraser

Ditch the single-use cotton rounds and chemical-filled makeup removers and grab this eraser instead! All it needs is water to take off lipstick, foundation, eyeliner, and more, plus it’s machine washable and can be resued over and over again.

View on:  facehalo.com

  

 

Common Heir Retinol Serum

The capsules that house these retinol-infused serums prevent the formula from being exposed to light or oxygen so you know they always work to get your skin radiant. Plus, they are plant-based and biodegradable, and come in paper-based packaging, so there is zero waste to worry about.

View on:  commonheir.com

 

 

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

Encourage their sense of adventure with this durable duffel bag from Patagonia. Made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing, it’s perfect for weekend getaways or extended trips. Always a winning gift for the one who has everything!

View on:  patagonia.com

 

 

Bota Box Wines

Sip sip hooray! Sustainable and delicious, these boxed wines have grown up a lot from our college partying days, and become far more sustainable when it comes to vino. And tasty too! This Cabernet Sauvignon tastes as good as anything you’d find in a bottle with rich aromas of black cherry, violet and a hint of black peppercorn. To top it off, the box creates 85% less landfill waste and generates 59% fewer greenhouse gasses during the manufacturing process. Plus, let's just agree that this boxed wine is WAY easier to wrap than a bottle.

View on:  botabox.com or target.com

 

 

Abel Odor Discovery Set

Perfumes are a holiday gift favorite, but we hate the idea of giving bottles of synthetic-filled scents wrapped up in glitter and plastic. That’s why we love these genderless, sustainably produced fragrances from Abel. They use renewable ingredients (that are clearly listed) and are dedicated to providing biodegradable and environmentally perfume alternatives.

View on:  us.abelodor.com

 

 

Waterleaf Paper Company

 

Tired of piles of wrapping paper? Here is the first ever 100% dissolvable and biodegradable gift wrap paper is made from plants and dissolves in water, leaving zero waste. This incredibly innovative wrapping paper easily biodegrades in your home compost, in your garden or let natural rain or sprinklers do the work. The beautifully designed paper is made from water based ink, is fully biodegradable and is safe for septic systems and grey water. Equally important is their eco-manufacturing which uses odorless ink system so no special ventilation is required and no hazardous air particles are released.

View on:  waterleafpaperco.com and use code ELIMS to get 10% off your order

 

 

Grab Green Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

The gift for the clean freak in your life: Grab Green's safe home cleaning products that are designed to reduce the risk of chemicals in our homes. We all know how important transparency of ingredients, so they have listed every ingredient on their packaging. To top it off, all their products are produced in the USA and the packaging contains 98% less plastic than other prominent brands and is just as effective, if not more. 

View on:  grabgreenhome.com and use code ELIMS to get 10% off your order 

 

 

ELIMS Magic Melt-Away Teeth Whitening Masks

The holidays are the most magical time of the year - and what’s more magical than these meltaway teeth whitening masks? A great gift for those “on the go” to keep their smiles bright and merry. And eco-friendly: these teeth whitening strips boast 33% less plastic than the leading teeth whitening strips, and whitens teeth without sensitivity.

View on:  elims.co and use code HOLIDAY2022 to get 20% off until 11/30/2022

 

 

All Birds Wool Runners

These runners are a favorite for both work and working out. They are lightweight, breathable, carbon neutral, and made from renewable eucalyptus fiber. The shoelaces are even made from recycled plastic bottles! Good for running. Good for the planet. Everybody wins!

View on:  allbirds.com

  

 

 

3. GIFTS OF HEALTH & WELLNESS

 

 

Clinical Skin

What we put on our body is just as important as what we put in it. That’s why we love this innovative medical-grade skincare line recommended by dermatologists and designed to improve signs of aging: fine lines, wrinkles, discolorations, loss of elasticity, dehydration. The science-backed, award-winning formulas are safety tested and harness the power of A.C.E Technology® (composed of antioxidants and ceramides) for healthier, more rejuvenated complexion.

View on:  clinicalskin.com and use code ELIMS20 to get 20% off

 

 

Peregrine Supply Men’s Grooming & Skincare

This brand is committed to safe, effective, and affordable products for him. They are 99% synthetic free, and Leaping Bunny certified and range from Beard and Hair Care, to Shaving and Skincare. We love all of their products, we really couldn’t choose just one! Their products are manufactured with ECOCERT ingredients whenever possible, and are free from harmful or polluting ingredients entirely. To top it off, they use recyclable, and post-consumer packaging for all products.

View on:  peregrinesupply.com and use code ELIMS20 to get 20% off   

 

 

Gift of the Nile

Created by a certified Astrologist, this woman and BIPOC founded company has bottled up all our favorite essential oils (including vanilla, patchouli, frankincense, and lavender) for calming, grounding fragrances. This Aromatherapy Mood Mist Earth is a perfect gift to help a loved one recenter after a hectic holiday season.

View on:  thegiftofthenile.com

 

 

Sḵwálwen Botanicals Renewal Set

Sḵwálwen Botanicals is an Indigenous skincare brand that honors cultural knowledge, Indigenous plant science and self care. Founded by ethnobotanist Leigh Joseph of Squamish First Nation, Sḵwálwen (skwall - win) provides gentle and effective skincare products that draw from the ceremonial aspects of plants. Incorporating sustainably harvested and sourced botanicals, Sḵwálwen unites ancestral traditions with modern beauty rituals, empowering people to connect to themselves and the natural world.  Created to renew face and body with the gentle botanicals of wild rose and yarrow, the Renewal Set features the Kalkáy Wild Rose Face Masque, Kalkáy Wild Rose Yarrow Bath Salts, and Kalkáy Healing Salve. 

View on:  skwalwen.com

 

  

Kaia Naturals The Underarm Bar

Founded by Madame Sweat, kaia naturals is on a mission to provide award-winning solutions that address common underarm complications: excess odor, sweat, dark underarms and the odorous “detox” period that occurs when transitioning from antiperspirant to natural deodorant. The underarm bar transforms natural deodorant into extra strength protection and is “Step 1” of the takesumi detox system. Available this year in a limited edition holiday design!

View on:  kaianaturals.com and use code BF20 to get 20% off 11/25-11/27/22

 

 

Happy ppl All-Natural Gum Set

Woman founded and sustainable, Happy ppl gum is good for your mouth. It’s sweetened with xylitol to prevent cavities and plaque buildup. They use natural gum base from chicle trees in Mexico (no plastic!), and are also vegan, biodegradable, plant-based, non-GMO and Kosher. Comes in fun flavors like smile-at-strangers strawberry lemon, wanna-make-out cinnamon and chicle-and-chill peppermint - simply the happiest stocking stuffer around!

View on:  happyppl.com and use code ELIMS15 to get 15% off until 12/26/22

 

 

SAATHËA

This mission-driven wellness brand focuses on creating high-quality wellness tea and self-care products using the Butterfly Pea Flower ingredient. Saathëa products -support radiant skin + elevate mind, body & soul. All their delicious teas are 100% natural and vegan-friendly, made with the highest quality of ethically sourced Butterfly Pea Flowers. We also love that they are committed to empowering women who are vulnerable to human trafficking and modern-day slavery with economic opportunities through ethical sourcing.

View on:  saathea.com and use code saatheagift22 to get 10% off until 12/18/22

  

 

Karma Nuts

Creators of the Wrapped® cashew! These nuts retain their natural skins for 2x the fiber, antioxidant activity comparable to blueberries, less food waste, and an amazing taste and crunch. Their tasty line of 11 delicious flavors is always air roasted with no added oil, gluten free, vegan, kosher and Non-GMO Project Verified. Karma Nuts also believes in living its mission of "Do Good. Eat Good. Feel Good.®" by investing 1% of sales (or 10% of profits) to charities focused on the health and well-being of children.

View on:  karmanuts.com and use code ELIMS15 to get 15% off

  

 

Love Sun Body Face, Body & Tinted Mineral Sunscreens

Sunshine in a tube! Made with 100% natural, sustainable minerals and plant-based ingredients, Love Sun Body sunscreen formulas are certified Cosmos Natural, PETA Cruelty Free and Vegan, gluten-free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, with no eye stinging ingredients. We love that the formulas are reef safe and have been given the best score for safety and efficacy by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

View on:  lovesunbody.com and use code LOVEHOLIDAYS22 to get 15% off your entire order until 12/18/22

 

 

Sundays Non-Toxic Nail Polish

We love that with Sundays, you don’t have to sacrifice health for beauty. This woman founded line of nontoxic nail care products that are safe for everyone to use, including pregnant women and kids. They also provide wellness experiences in they NYC studios such as mediation manicures to make our clients look good and feel good at the same time. We all could certainly use some more calm during the holidays!

View on:  dearsundays.com and use code SUNDAYS15 to get 15% off

 

 

Farmbody Skincare Butter Me Up Buttercup Hand Cream

Say good-bye to dry lobster claws this holiday season! This hand cream really works: it is the best cream for frequent hand washers and it doesn't burn when applied to dry cracked hands. It's packed with rich butters and probiotics to create the most smoothing hand cream you've ever tried. The candelilla wax protects your skin from frequent hand washing for lasting relief.

View on:  farmbodyskincare.com and use code HOLIDAY10 for 10% off and free shipping on your entire order

 

 

Good For You Girls Skincare

Effective skincare for teens and tweens, this brand offers exceptional clean beauty formulations for the beauty beginner. Made for the special needs of hormonal skin, products effectively clean, balance, and protect young skin without exposure to harmful chemicals or questionable ingredients. And their formulas are always vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free and made with love in the USA.

View on:  goodforyougirls.com and use code GIFT25 for 25% off your first purchase of any regular-priced item

 

 

ELIMS Toothpaste Gift Pack

For those on your list with a sweet tooth (guilty!), give the gift of ELIMS toothpaste. This 2-pack packs a powerful combination of natural, good-for-you ingredients perfect for AM and PM brushing. Plus, the tubes are made of renewable sugarcane, not virgin plastic, and all products can be recycled with ELIMS with their partner, TerraCycle.

View on:  elims.co and use code HOLIDAY2022 to get 20% off until 11/30/2022

 

 

Seedlip Non-Alcoholic Mixers

Curious about switching to non-alcoholic drinks? Our favorite is Seedlip: they are on a mission to change the way the world drinks with the highest quality non-alcoholic options and an excellent way to try non-alcoholic mixers. Our favorite is Grove 42, a sophisticated, bright, citrus blend of Mediterranean Orange, Lemon Peel, Lemongrass, and Ginger with a dry finish, and pairs well with a quality ginger ale. Cheers to your health!

View on:  seedlipdrinks.com or sechey.com

 

 

Do you know of a brand that should be added to our Giving Good Gift Guide? Mention them in the comments below!