Best Cosmetics

Lush

240 Powell (at O'Farrell), 693-9633, www.lush.com

In the world of ubiquitous floral-reeking bath and body supplies, Lush peddles some of the most inventive products available. A U.K.-based company that deals in handmade, all-natural cosmetics, it's known for its frothy bubble baths (bath bombs that fizz and saturate your water with sweetly scented color) and scrumptious massage bars, whose essential oils glide onto your skin like frosting. In addition to bath products, fragrances, and hair and skin care items, Lush specializes in tchotchkes that are as beautiful as they are novel, like bars of soap that look like wedges of cream pie or rock candy, strewn with real coconut, fig, or pieces of twig. With names like Karma, Banana Moon, and Snowcake and prices that range from about $6 on up, Lush's offerings are as quirky as they are affordable, perfect for anyone who thinks she'll scream if she receives another generic Bath & Body Works set.