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It’s that time of the year when I leave my corporate-girly-concrete-jungle to enter my natural habitat – a tranquil beachside, away from the cacophony of the city, sipping on a cocktail from a coconut.
Most of my days before the trip are spent fantasising about sporting my island-girl fits with sand on my feet and wind in my hair. All this daydreaming is going to make packing a nightmare! Luckily, I have 10 essentials that aid my procrastinator-packer behaviour.
Use this as a cheat sheet the next time you are planning a holiday.
Skin Prep
Just like you take care of your tummy while travelling, your skin too needs care. I can’t emphasise how important skin care and prep are during a vacation. While travelling, the change in altitude and weather can cause breakouts, acne, and dryness, and once you reach your destination, there will be an overall change in the atmosphere. It should be muscle memory for all of us to follow the CSMS routine, whether at home getting ready for work or on a holiday getting ready to lounge by the pool.
Dot & Key I-Beauty Csms Vitamin C Bestseller Combo
This CSMS – Cleanser, Serum, Moisturiser, and Sunscreen – combo by Dot & Key, infused with vitamin C, is perfect for everyday use and your vacation vanity. Get clear, even-toned, and glowing skin for all your gram pics – no filter needed!
Cleanser: The papaya extract, pro-vitamin B5, and blood orange boost collagen for firmer skin, reduce pigmentation and fade dark spots, for a healthy vacation glow.
Serum: Formulated with 10% vitamin C, vitamin E, and 5% niacinamide, it visibly reduces dark spots with every use.
Moisturiser: This moisturiser comes in the cutest packaging and is lightweight, hydrating, and quick-absorbing – perfect for hydrating your skin during a midday stroll in the sun.
Sunscreen: Whether you plan a chill day indoors or a hike outside, this sunscreen will ensure you don’t come back with a tan and pigmentation.
Ace The Base
Now that your skincare is taken care of with the compact and travel-friendly CSMS kit, it’s time to glam up your vacay looks with some long-lasting, mattifying, foundation.
Lakme 9 To 5 Primer + Matte Mini Foundation - Cool Ivory
With a built-in primer, this foundation offers us the convenience of travel size and the long-lasting finish of a salon treatment. Just squeeze some product onto a beauty blender and apply it on prepped skin for a smooth and even skin tone.
MARS Trend Setting Powder - Banana
Fried food and baked skin – a match made in heaven for the holidays. Set your base with a lightweight, matte-setting powder that lasts up to eight hours for a soft dewy look.
Eye Can Do It
Say goodbye to toxic workplace eye-rolls and hello to mesmerised vacation head-turns. Line your eyes and lift your lashes with the elegance of fewer products and the finish of a flawless diva.
Nykaa Rock the line Kajal Eyeliner Pencil - Jet Black
You can spend thousands of rupees on makeup and skincare but still look incomplete without a swish on your eyelids. Although this kajal pencil is not a mini version of a bigger size, this one product is enough to accentuate your eyes. Run it on your water and lash lines to give your eyes a beautiful border.
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Travel Size - Black
Who doesn’t want dramatic lashes on a long-awaited getaway? Created with an innovative hourglass brush and a voluminous formulation, this mascara nourishes, curls, and locks your lashes from the root to the tip.
Pop Of Colour
What’s a holiday without a splash of colour? Leave your blacks, whites, and browns for the corporate baddie in you and embrace the vibrancy your vacation deserves.
Huda Beauty Mini Power Bullet Matte Lipstick
This highly pigmented power bullet is not just a great lipstick, it also doubles as an eyeshadow and blush! The Huda formulation is a unique blend that leaves your lips feeling soft and hydrated.
Bag It Up
Your special minis deserve a mini bag of their own. Store your toiletries, skincare essentials, and makeup together for ease of access and convenient packing.
NFI Essentials Transparent Cosmetic Bag with Hook Wash Bag Travel Makeup Bag
With a hook attached to the bag, this carrier is ideal for travel. It’s compact yet spacious and perfect to create your makeshift cabinet. The smooth zipper and impeccable stitching complement the timeless colour of the bag, which adds a pretty touch to your vanity.
Happy holidays, y’all!
