Today I thought I would take a break from my Blog Challenge posts to give you an insider's look into my travel must-haves. I will be posting a few "Travel Must-Haves" posts that pertain to different areas of packing so that you can get an overall perspective into my travel preparation thoughts. Heading out into the world and leaving home behind is a big deal, so let's make sure you have all of the essentials covered before doing so!
Now I present to you: Leah's Top 10 Beauty Travel Must-Haves (IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER).
1. Eos Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in “Sweet Mint” - $3.49
I am in love with this lip balm! Its petite size is perfect for carrying and it fits almost anywhere, making it essential on my travel must-haves list. While studying abroad, this lip balm became a close buddy of mine and we went everywhere together. We were pretty exclusive. Additionally, it is a very long lasting balm, as I am still using the same balm that I bought last summer and used every day while in Europe. Talk about a great investment! This baby will last you a long time and is well worth the $3.49.
2. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes - $6.99
Oh the glory of these cleansing towelettes. I used to be a liquid makeup remover fan, but I have forever banned liquid remover from my life after discovering these gems. They are gentle on your face and not only remove your makeup, but cleanse your face from dirt and oils as well. I traveled to Morocco this past semester and the access to running water was limited, so my towelettes were a lifesaver because I didn't need water and soap to clean my face. Whether you're heading to Morocco or a more urban location for your travels, these cleaning towelettes will clean all of your makeup - waterproof included - and leave you feeling refreshed and clean!
3. Estee Lauder Resilience Lift Firming/Sculpting Eye Crème - $58.00
You may be rolling your eyes at the sight of an anti-aging eye cream because I'm only 21 years old, but hear me out! My usage of anti-aging creams began about a year ago after I read an article stating that one of my favorite idols, Selena Gomez, used anti-aging creams. Her point of view was that it never hurts to start protecting your skin early, and I completely agree. Though this cream is on the expensive side, I see results almost overnight as it nourishes my fine lines and freshens my face. Your face gets wrinkles as you get older because the elasticity in your face loses water, so I'm sure most creams would be beneficial in protecting the water in the skin of your face and eyes, but I am simply in love with Estee Lauder's eye cream and the results I've seen. You can also buy smaller versions that are perfect and compact for travelling purposes (and cheaper)!
4. Smashbox Full Exposure Mascara in “Jet Black” - $19.50
I like to keep my makeup simple when I travel, so I only wear mascara on my eyes. With that said, I don't want to look like I don't have eyelashes either (because that's just plain unattractive, let's be real). This mascara is perfect for creating a natural look while making your eyes pop. My lashes are increased in both length and volume with this mascara, and that's something I haven't found until now. My lashes don't clump and the mascara stays on throughout the day. Seriously, TRY THIS MASCARA. It's worth the investment and you won't go back to another mascara, plain and simple.
5. Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush in “Cupid” - $21.00
This blush is heavenly. Are you looking for that perfect blush color that models seem to always carry and that you can never seem to replicate? Look no further! I've been using this blush for about 2 years now and it gives me that soft, natural glow that looks beautiful on everyone. You can also deepen the effect depending on how much of the blush you apply. For my travelling purposes and the natural makeup I stick to, I apply just a tiny bit to the apples of my cheeks and I'm set for the rest of the day. While other blushes make your face look too red or some awkward shade of color, I can assure you that Clinique's "Cupid" is a fantastic is a perfect shade.
6. BareMinerals Matte Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15 in “Fairly Light” - $27.00
This loose powder foundation is my absolute MUST when travelling. It covers blemishes and tired eyes perfectly with one quick swipe (seriously, I don't know how it does it but it has PERFECT coverage) and you still feel like you're not wearing makeup. I love the matte version because I have naturally oily skin, so it prevents my face from getting shiny throughout the day When travelling, skip the heavy liquid foundations, avoid caking makeup on your face and stick to BareMinerals' powder foundation.
7. Revlon Photo Ready Concealer in “Light” - $9.99
Best. Concealer. Ever. All of your under eye circles and blemishes will disappear in the blink of an eye with this magical concealer stick. When travelling, I love doing a quick swipe under my eyes and then covering with the BareMinerals powder foundation for a flawless finish that lasts all day.
8. China Glaze Nail Laquer with Hardeners in “For Audrey” - $7.50
Who doesn't love the movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's?" This color is supposed to imitate the color of the iconic blue Tiffany & Co. box, and it looks absolutely beautiful. I love this color for travel because it is bright and pops against any outfit, making your day happier. You really only need one coat of this vivid color, but I like to apply two so that I really get the color's Tiffany hue on my fingernails. How can you resist?
9. Tresemmé Fresh Start Renewing Dry Shampoo - $5.99
If you take one thing from this list as an absolute essential for travelling, this is it. Who has time to wash their hair every single day when they're enjoying the beauty of their travels? Exactly, ain't nobody got time for that. Thanks to Tresemmé, you no longer have to have time for that either. This dry shampoo cleans the oils from your hair and allows you to skip a wash. It also doesn't leave white residue in your hair like baby powder or other dry shampoos. Plus, it's healthier to wash your hair every other day anyways! This is an absolute must for your travelling experiences, I promise.
10. Philosophy Field of Flowers Fragrance - $37.50
Every should carry a good fragrance with them when travelling because it adds a fresh scent on top of deodorant. I personally love Philosophy's Field of Flowers because it is fresh and light and doesn't suffocate your nostrils. I suggest avoiding heavy perfumes because when travelling and constantly being on the move, you will want something light that is able to travel with you and not weigh you down by thick scents. Check it out, it's a beautiful fragrance!
Until next time,
Leah