After decades of long-haul travel for store openings and events, some habits become non-negotiable. Minimal makeup, hair tied back, and beauty essentials packed in the carry-on. The goal: keep skin hydrated, fresh and flight-ready.
Top of the list? A nourishing lip balm to combat in-flight dryness, plus a tinted balm to revive tired skin before landing. A quick dab on the cheeks helps bring back warmth and colour—especially under those harsh airport lights.
Even for those surrounded by beauty products every day, paring things down makes travel simpler. These are the go-to essentials.
Hydrate, always
Air-conditioning and changing climates can leave skin feeling dry and tight, no matter the destination. Frequent flyers make hydration a priority—drinking plenty of water and packing targeted moisturisers for the face, lips, hands and cuticles.
A travel-friendly eye cream helps plump and protect delicate under-eye skin. When space is tight, decanting a favourite product into a small container from the chemist does the trick.
Pack multitaskers
Keeping skincare and makeup separate helps streamline packing and saves time when getting ready. The goal is fewer products that do more. Think a mini mascara, a four-shade eyeshadow palette in wearable neutrals and a couple of compact brushes.
Travel can trigger skin flare-ups thanks to unfamiliar foods or disrupted routines, so a good concealer is essential. Cover spots and redness with a lightweight, blendable formula. Space-saving essentials like tinted balms or dual-ended pencils that work for both brows and eyes also earn a spot in the carry-on.
Have a solid skincare
Security restrictions and liquid limits can make carry-on skincare tricky. Solid cleansers, balms and SPF sticks are smart alternatives—no spills, no fuss and no hold-ups at airport security.
Look for formulas with nourishing ingredients like seed oils or squalane to keep skin hydrated and ensure smooth application. A solid cleansing stick easily removes makeup and impurities without drying the skin.
And since sun exposure doesn’t stop on holidays, a high-SPF sunscreen stick should always be on hand for easy, mess-free reapplication.
Makeup, but fun
Holidays are the perfect excuse to try something different. A swipe of sparkly shadow, a pop of bold blush, or a glossy lip can elevate the mood and the outfit. Packing light doesn’t mean skipping the fun—just prioritise one or two products that feel like a treat. With a bit of planning, there’s room for a little glam in every travel bag.
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