What Parents Really Want for Valentine's Day

Skin care has been a thing more people have been getting into over the past few years, but since the start of the health crisis, and mask-wearing, it seems to have only increased. Vitamin C is a skin care staple that helps skin look fresh and bright, fading any dark spots, too. A perfect choice for sleepy parents.

Snacks are always a good idea, especially on Valentine's Day. Chocolate is a classic V-Day gift, but why go small when there are next-level yummy snacks out there that involve chocolate, too, like this luxury popcorn variety pack.

Whether the parent likes working out at home, chasing the kids all day, or just relaxing, a new set of sweats is always a welcome treat. Quality loungewear isn't always something a parent will splurge on, so give them something that will last a while and feel plush.

Are we clear: Snacks are a great Valentine's Day idea. Bake a sweet treat for the 'rents in one's life, or, if one wants to get fancy, order ooey, gooey, yummy stuffed cookies from Dirty Cookies. They ship their delicious cookies so we can all enjoy the goodness.

Self-care isn't just about face masks and manicures. Sometimes, it's indulging in the little things that make a big difference, like these silk ponytail scrunchies. They won't cause breakage like regular hair ties and they are an affordable, sweet surprise for a mom.

One can't go wrong gifting a good book, especially to parents. They might not get to read as often as they'd like, but when they do, it's a great escape, and something for themselves. Buying a book or gift card from a Black-owned, independent bookstore Harriet's is something we always recommend.

It wouldn't be a Valentine's Day gift list without jewelry, would it? We say nah. Chunkier necklaces and hoops are on trend right now, and Oma the Label has a ton of adorably chic pieces to choose from. Parents can be stylish, too.

Candles make a space smell good, but they're so much more. They're home decor items that also make cute knickknack containers when the wax is all burned up. Nest's Wild Mint Eucalyptus candle is the perfect classic candle with a Valentine's Day twist. Plus, we never met a mom who didn't love a good candle.

Not many people think of art when thinking of Valentine's Day gifts, but we want to change that. A beautiful piece of art can make a great addition to a room, especially if it matches the style of the recipient. Plus, it's super special and will stand out among the chocolate and stuffed teddy bears.

Throw blankets are almost always welcome, especially this time of year when things are chilly. Weighted blankets are great to make a room cozy, but they also can help bring two people closer when they snuggle — a great Valentine's Day gift if you ask us.

Wireless earbuds aren't the most sexy Valentine's Day gift in the world, but they're super useful. The lucky parent gifted these can listen to music, podcasts, or talk on the phone hands-free around the house, as we're sure they're hands are usually full as is. Nothing says, "I love you" like a gift to make their lives easier.

Black-owned brewing company BLK & Bold make amazing coffee and we all know parents could use something to keep them happy and energized throughout the day, especially because kids seem to make sleep even less likely. This brand is available from Boxed and Target.

Parents have their hands full taking care of tiny human beings, but they may take an interest in taking care of plants, which need much less attention. This adorable heart-shaped hoya is a fun twist on flowers.

Smooth skin is sexy, so what better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with a big tub of vanilla shea body butter. It's also wintertime, which makes a gift like this extra practical (in addition to helping up the sexy skin factor).

Sweatpants can be sexy, too — we stand by it. And even if they're not, who cares! We know parents just want to be comfortable, and this super cute loungewear set will do the trick. This two-piece set comes with long pants, a tank top, and a cardigan.

This sweatshirt is comfortable and warm — perfect for winter — and a great nontraditional Valentine's Day gift.

Sexy leggings sound like heaven to most people, but moms especially. They can be worn for working out, lounging around the house, for errands, taking the dog out, or dropping the kids off at school. These flatter the figure in the best way. It's as close we'll get to a "freakum dress" at least this V-Day.

Getting glam may be taking a backseat to the kids, but it shouldn't. All parents should be able to feel glam now and then, and that includes a full eye look! Gift a mom this super awesome neutral eye shadow palette to make it happen for her.

Some of us are staunch traditionalists, and that's OK. Sometimes, parents really do just want a huge bouquet of flowers on Valentine's Day to feel loved and surprised. We say go for it. Urbanstems has stunning bouquets to choose from if one is looking for a Valentine's arrangement.

And while we're talking about flowers, might as well get a good vase, too. One that won't just be like the others. Get mom a special one that she can use all year. It's the V-Day gift that will keep on giving.