Beauty Travel Essentials

With limits on what you can and can't put in your carry-on bag, plus weight limits on your checked baggage, it's tough to pack all the cosmetics and toiletries that you need on a trip. Plus, the environment of an airplane is not kind to many women's complexions. You may have traveled luxuriously, but with the dry air in the cabin, it may look like your face rode coach! Start your beauty regimen before you take off by drinking plenty of water in the days leading up to your trip. And on the day you leave, slather on plenty of moisturizer. It's always smart to use products that can do double duty, so investing in a tinted moisturizer or richer foundation than the one you usually use can keep your face from drying out in flight. A small bottle of saline eye drops can be stashed in your carry-on to keep eyes from getting itchy and red. Plenty of oil-absorbing powder, plus stashing oil-absorbing paper, can help your face look smooth and matte for the duration of your trip.


Adding medicated lip balm, such as Carmex, can help your lips go the distance. A pretty manicure can give you a polished look, but when traveling, steer clear of bright colors, which make travel-induced chips more noticeable. Light beige, pink and other neutrals are your best bet. Look for waterproof cosmetics bags to store your cosmetics and toiletries, and only bring the must-haves in your carry-on bag. A Ziploc bag is an easy, economical way to keep your toiletries from leaking onto your clothes as well. Look for travel kits that include your favorite products as an easy way to bring along all your usual necessities. Large bottles can be cumbersome, messy and take up valuable suitcase space. Include little luxuries, such as candle tins in your favorite scents, or small bottles of bubble bath.