I have been in the midst of travel since last week; generally, when preparing for a trip, I am packing late at night after a long work day and consequently find myself throwing everything imaginable into my bag. This lack of focus leads to duplicates in some product areas (e.g., seven different eye creams) and gaping holes in others (how could I forget a hairbrush?!). This time around, I tried to pack with each act of “getting ready” (for example, cleansing or applying foundation) in mind, conservativey selecting only a few key items in each category to ensure that my bases were covered and everything brought would be used.
Although my beauty choices were more liberal (I often bring a spectrum of products to photograph and test while staying in a new place), I still exercised some restraint, while also somehow managing to leave my regular makeup bag at home on my bathroom counter…the horror!
In sum, I am pleased with what I packed as–four days into the trip–each product has proven entirely necessary.
Kindly scroll on for more details about my packing list, swatches and images of the products in action as well as the Bottom Line…
// HAIRCARE //
- Michael Mercier Detangling Brush (reviewed HERE)
- *Alterna Body Building Shampoo and Conditioner: I have been using this pair for the past month and am impressed by how well it cleanses while adding bounce and volume to my long and heavy hair. My mom uses this duo as well and loves it just as much as I do!
- *Sachajuan Hair Repair: Integrated into my hair routine once a week, this moisturizing formula combats the dryness that afflicts my hair due to my love of extra-hot showers. It makes my hair shiny and completely tangle free–a major feat not to be taken lightly.
// CLEANSERS //
- Koh Gen Do Spa Water Travel Edition (reviewed HERE)
- *Clinique Take the Day Off Micellar Water Towelettes (reviewed HERE)
- *Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Daily Cleanser (reviewed HERE)
- *FOREO Luna II for Sensitive Skin (currently 10% off and reviewed HERE)
// SKINCARE //
- *Le Metier de beaute Rejuvenating Anti-Aging Night Cream: With one of the highest over-the-counter concentrations of retinol on the market, this luxurious night cream bathes skin in moisture while potent ingredients fight fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration. One month in and my skin has responded delighfully…it’s reaping all of the benefits of retinol (radiance, smoothness and bounce) without any of the harsh side-effects. This cream is worth it.
- *La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Lift (reviewed HERE)
- *SK-II Facial Treatment Oil (reviewed HERE)
- *Le Metier de Beauty Ultimate Hydrator (reviewed HERE)
- *Mila Moursi Refining Lotion: I have been using this more lately and appreciate how well it resurfaces my skin over the course of a single night. The fruit acids are gentle but effective and I awake with brighter, smoother, glowing skin each time I use it.
- *Kate Somerville Goat Milk Eye Balm (reviewed HERE)
// EXTRAS //
- *YSL Black Opium (reviewed HERE)
- By Terry Nail Lacquer Terrybly Base: This glossy clear shade makes nails looks so healthy and shiny…it’s all I need when traveling.
- *Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Mist for Body (reviewed HERE)
- *Studio 10 Youth Lift Glow-Plexion: I have been adding a pump of this to my arms, shins and decollete for a subtle glow that sculpts and gleams…positively invaluable in the summertime months.
- *Clear Eyes Pure Relief Multi-Symptoms Eye Drops: My allergies have been going crazy as of late and this eye drop formula definitely helps; silky and calming, just two drops reduces redness and irritation instantly.
- *Le Metier de Beaute Hydra Plump Lip Serum (reviewed HERE)
- *ZO Skin Health Oraser Body Emulsion Plus: Excellent for sensitive skin that needs soothing moisture, I am well over halfway through this giant tube. The formula is fragrance-free and keeps me hydrated for over 24 hours.
- *Colagate Optic White High Impact White Toothpaste (also available HERE): Great for gentle whitening and brightening, I have been using this formula for months and couldn’t be happier with it.
- *Reach Toothbrush: My low-maintenace travel toothbrush of choice, I love tossing something into my bag that doesn’t require a charger and this does the trick indeed.
// FOR the HUSBAND //
- Natura Bisse Essential Shock Intense Retinol Fluid: My husband, dad and brother use this formula religiously day and night. It provides moisture and anti-aging benefits in low-concentration retinol (no peeling or dryness) and their skin, collectively, has never looked better.
- Laura Mercier Secret Finish Mattifying: Although he is more combination than oily, my husband likes using this formula on his T-zone to banish the unavoidble “glow” that develops over the course of a long work day. He’s used this for yers.
// FOUNDATION //
// FACE //
// EYES //
- Tom Ford Cream and Powder Eyeshadow in Golden Peach (reviewed HERE)
- *Giorgio Armani Eye Tint in Senso (reviewed HERE):
- *Eyeko Eye Do Eyeliner: This cult favorite is new to me and now I know why it gets such press…the bold, strong line it creates is impressive and it lasts for hours.
- *By Terry Line Designer in Black Ink (reviewed HERE)
- *Votre Vu Arch de Triumphe Brow Definer in Fair (reviewed HERE) applied with the *Jenny Patinkin Eyebrow Brush (reviewed HERE)
- *ARDENCY INN Modster Mascara (discussed HERE)
- *Maybelline NY Spider Effect Mascara (reviewed HERE)
// LIPS //
- *Surratt Beauty Automatique Lip Crayon in Valentine (reviewed HERE)
- Gucci Lip Color in Carnation (reviewed HERE)
- *Jouer Long-Wear Lip Creme in Citronade Rose (reviewed HERE)
- *Jouer Lip Topper in Skinny Dip (reviewed HERE)
- *Makeup Atelier Long Lasting Lipstick in Beige Orange: With major opacity and lush matte finish (that is not drying), this fascinating warm nude is a new favorite discovery.
- *Makeup Atelier Long Lasting Lipstick in Mandarin: With the same formula as above, this bold creamy orange feels fresh and modern. Check out the entire Makeup Atelier line at Beautylish!
- Le Metier de Beaute Bondi Beach (reviewed HERE)
- *Giorgio Armani Beauty Lip Maestro in Drama Pink (reviewed HERE)
- Christian Louboutin Silky Satin Lipstick in Bikini and Tutulle (reviewed HERE)
- *Make Up For Ever Artist Plexi-Gloss in #101 Nude Beige (reviewed HERE)
The following images reflect most products in action…
I am wearing:
- Equipment France Matteo Silk Mini Dress: This creamy nude silk number is classic and comfortable and on sale…brilliant!
- Miz Mooz Cali Ankle Cuff Sandal (also reviewed HERE): These flats have been on constant repeat as they are both unique and comfortable…I cannot recommend them enough.
- Loren Stewart Ball Choker (also reviewed HERE): I’ve worn this nonstop since December when I bought it and am glad it is back in stock now. Love that I can add a charm or two to customize should I wish.
- Turquoise necklace from The Sparrow’s Nest
- Le Metier de Beaute Peau Vierge #2 (reviewed HERE)
- *La Prairie Skin Caviar Concealer and Foundation in Amber Beige (reviewed HERE)
- Giorgio Armani Sun Fabric in #600 (reviewed HERE)
- By Terry Sun Designer Palette #02 (reviewed HERE)
- *BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector in Champagne Pop (reviewed HERE)
- *Marc Jacobs Beauty Glow Stick Glistening Illuminator (discussed HERE)
- Tom Ford Cream and Powder Eyeshadow in Golden Peach (reviewed HERE)
- *ARDENCY INN Modster Mascara (discussed HERE)
- *Votre Vu Arch de Triumphe Brow Definer in Fair (reviewed HERE) applied with the *Jenny Patinkin Eyebrow Brush (reviewed HERE)
- Christian Louboutin Silky Satin Lipstick in Bikini and Tutulle (reviewed HERE) topped with *Make Up For Ever Artist Plexi-Gloss in #101 Nude Beige (reviewed HERE)
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| A candid with my lovely friend Rachel…we met 4 years ago (the last time I was in VA) and stayed in touch. It was wonderful to catch up! |
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| Last look. |
–Shop the Post–
Bottom Line: I hope you enjoyed this packing list travel feature and would love to know what makes it into YOUR luggage…do share!
Good things ahead, including a foundation feature and a host of new product procurements…I am also working my way through your latest batch of lovely comments and emails.
xx and have a beautiful week,
–The Beauty Professor
** PR samples provided for review denoted by an asterisk (the rest purchased by me), however, as always, all of my opinions are expressly and unequivocally my own. © 2012-15 Beautyprofessor® All Rights Reserved. Do not copy, reprint or republish content and/or photos without author’s written permission.
Comments (2)
Hi B.P hope you are enjoying or enjoyed your trip. As always, you look stunning. Great products AND restraint! As you, I'm still looking for the holy grail foundation with "glow" & lasting power. But the journey began with you and I'm glad we're on it together. Haha. It's fun. Thank you for the great posts and ill be looking forward to the review on the new Lmdb glow foundation.
Hi Rachel! I always pack makeup as I do my face the day before and add other loved ones then. Sometimes we travel 2 months at a time like now in the Pacific Northwest. I once forgot my Meds fortunately for a small trip but had to cut it sort. I then have a check off list on my suitcase as I add my toiletries and makeup. Clothes are something I pack as outfits knowing I will purchase some on trips. Love your selections. Have a wonderful Holiday. Was fun to see everything you chose!