The travel beauty essentials you need so you don’t overpack

Some people overpack when it comes to clothes. Others, like myself, overpack skincare and makeup products. For some reason, I believe that being abroad justifies two palettes filled with neon colors or an entire cosmetic pouch of various serums.

What the regret from overpacking has taught me is that I need to use reliable products when in a foreign destination. Abroad, I always find new products I’d like to try so best to leave space for in my luggage. Locally, for a beach trip or an escape to the province, I’m too busy breaking free from the usual city life that I don’t attempt 13-step smokey eye look. At least, most of the time.

Skinwise, being on a trip tests which products I can count on when there’s an emergency. This is not the time to realize you’re allergic to a certain moisturizer. Being on vacation should be as worry-free as possible. If you really must dabble with new products, I suggest you integrate them in your routine two weeks before you leave, to make sure they don’t have adverse effects and to adjust your regime if you find some of it just doesn’t work.

My own advice is the reason why I always have these skincare and makeup items wherever I go. These products are multi-taskers, helping cut away the excess so I can travel light.

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch

Stepping off the plane, I immediately grew three pimples. A simple solution to this is these, dare I say it, miraculous patches. I use them at night so the pimples aren’t further irritated. In the morning, the patches somehow extract the sebum effectively so you can just wash it away and immediately, the skin where the spot was is on its way back to normal. Available at Watsons. 

Simple Kind to Skin Pollution Protect Sheet Mask

I believe it’s a bit unwise to bring a tub mask with you on a trip, lest it’s travel size. A sheet mask for extra hydration especially in cold and dry climates is a good solution. Bring at least one for every week your away so you give your skin some extra care every seven days. My current choice is this anti-pollution one from Simple which is vitamin-enriched so it delivers an extra punch and hydration. Available at Watsons. 

L’Oreal Infallible Full Wear More Than Concealer

If you want to be fuss-free on your trip, this long-wearing and full coverage concealer can double as a foundation. I use the color Cashew to conceal dark and red spots. Almond is my highlight shade to brighten the high points plus the sides of my lips and nostrils. Despite their thick consistency, this concealer blends easily and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin. Available at SM Beauty, SM Mall of Asia 

Real Techniques Flawless Base Brush Set

Nothing beats the original. I’ve had my set for three years now and I find I don’t reach for any other set when I travel. This four-piece brush set has everything you need: a foundation brush for cream and liquid makeup, a contour brush which can be used for blush also, a buffing brush for powder and to blend your face makeup, and detailer brush for small spots and can also be used as a lipstick brush. Available at SM Beauty, SM Makati.

Maybelline Made for All Lipstick in Mauve for You

Maybelline recently launched a collection of universally-flattering shades and I think they delivered well. These creamy lipsticks are perfectly warm-toned so you can have the shade you need for every day, whatever look you’re going for. I like Mauve for You as it’s that right blend of purple and nude, makes for an interesting twist to the normal MLBB shade. Available at SM North EDSA.

Origins Dr. Weil Mega-Mushroon Magic Set

I’ve been reviewing skincare products for around four years now as a beauty writer, and I find that I always go back to Origins. I make it a point to ask for samples when I purchase something from them as I’m never disappointed with any of their products. A sure hit is the complete skincare set from Dr. Weil as it’s recommended for all skin types. They come in travel-friendly sizes so you don’t bring more than what you need. Available at SM Megamall.