Travel Light Makeup Essentials

By International Makeup Artist Ciara O’Shea

I’m just back from NYFW and currently working at Milan Fashion Week so trust me when I say I believe in traveling light! With a little preparation there is certainly no need to be laden down with product when away from home. Here is the low maintenance way to beautiful skin while on holiday.

SKINCARE BAG

Let me start with the most important, a cleanser. It is often implied that a moisturiser is the most important part of your regime but get your cleanser right and all your skincare woes will be a thing of the past. I could not be without Liz Earle’s Cleanse and Polish. It comes with a muslin cloth therefore exfoliating while cleansing. It works on every skin type. It also helps control acne breakouts. It is an extremely good price and great value for money.

A moisturizer. I like to use one that has a lot of hydrating properties without adding excess oil. I find Bliss’s Triple Oxygen + C Energising Cream does the trick. It gives the skin a creamy velvety texture and does a little brightening on the side. A truly hard worker. The last thing I pop in to my bag is Rodials Glam Balm. I love it because it can be used all over the face as a rich night cream, on the lips as a balm, on cuticles or even as a healing cream for burns.

MAKEUP BAG

A concealer. I cannot tell you how much I think everyone should have a “Skinflash” pen by Dior. It is a concealer with a brightener, perfect for hiding any imperfections or dark circles. If you absolutely cannot imagine going without a dot of foundation then I suggest you go for a light texture, Bobbi Browns “Natural Finish Long Lasting Foundation with SPF 15”. It has a beautiful second skin feel about it yet gives the perfect level of coverage. I always take a cheek colour. It defines the face and looks great in pictures. Again I go to Bobbi Brown, “Sheer Colour Cheek Tint”, comes in a stick making application super speedy.

Eyeliners are a godsend. I normally just pop a variety of coloured pencils in my bag, they can double up as an eyeshadow by applying them all over the lid and smudging the socket line with your fingers. Choose ones with an applicator, that way you can save on the brushes. Jemma Kidds “Define Stay Put Eyeliner” is smudge and water proof and comes in a rainbow of wearable shades. I have worn them in blistering heat and can tell you they do not budge.

Jemma is a winner in the eye category for travel. I always use her “Lash Tint”. It is a waterproof formula that stains the lashes for up to 48hrs. So you don’t have to worry about your mascara flaking or running. It can even be used to cover up any unwanted grey hairs.

Last thing I add in to the mix is some Blot Papers. Paul and Joe have some super pretty ones. If pretty’s not for you then try Muji for their sleek urban and affordable version.