Travel Lightly

Traveling can be a pain these days with so many rules to follow from the TSA. And let's not forget how many airlines charge you for checking even your first bag. How awful is it to have to check a bag at the last minute or have to throw one of your favorite products out? If you're like me, there's at least one splurge item in your beauty routine and it would hurt to have to leave it behind.


I've got some easy tips for making your travel light and hassle free.

First, I started with the Makeup Matte. It's a great holder for brushes and other things like blushes, lipsticks and shadows. It rolls up and is easily thrown into your carry on bag.

Next, is shampoo and conditioner. But Brett, you say, the hotels generally have shampoo and conditioner in the rooms. And while that's true, I would rather have my own and have enough for my long hair. So I took a small travel bottle, poured my shampoo into it and gave it a label. I didn't have another bottle for conditioner, but I had lots of samples of good conditioners that I could make good use of. (Same goes for the LA Fresh makeup remover pads in the first image.)

Foundation is an easy one, because most bottles fall within the 3-4 oz allowance for carry on. I guess I'm just taking the moment to let you know how much I love Make Up For Ever's HD Foundation. (Did you know you can go to Sephora and they can match your skin with a foundation using a scanner? Pretty awesome technology).

Again, I know they have body wash and lotion, but I like the scents I use at home. So, by pulling from my travel sizes, I can continue to smell like myself no matter where I go. (Sorry guys, but this Dark Kiss from Bath & Body Works has been discontinued. Bummer.)

I know Molton Brown makes some small sizes as well and they smell delicious and luxurious. It's all about what you're used to or comfortable with.

And of course I have to brag on my all-time favorite brand of moisturizer and serum: AHAVA. The Time to Hydrate gel moisturizer is fantastic. It hydrates just enough without leaving your face all greasy. And the Dead Sea Osmotor serum has kept my face looking wrinkle free and smooth. I adore both and they're both TSA approved to go in my carry on. YAY!

 

Last, but not least, I need a sunscreen that will pass, and Goldfaden's Sun Visor is the perfect solution. It has a non aerosol spray and it's  the perfect size. (and SPF 30)
 

Don't forget to put all your liquids into a quart-sized Ziplock bag for easy inspection! And enjoy that trip!

Beauty Deals and Gifts

I know we're down to the wire here, but you've got to get to an Ulta store, because they've got some great makeup sets at awesome prices that are perfect for a last-minute gift or an indulgent splurge for yourself.

Cargo Cosmetics is offering a Let's Meet in Paris Eye Shadow Palette - it's gorgeous and includes 12 metallic shades in the lovely brocade compact. But the best part? It's only 19 dollars!
Also included is a dual ended eyeshadow brush.

I love this palette and I love these colors. The holidays are the perfect time to add some shimmer to your eyelids.

Lorac is my new favorite brand for mascara. Lorac Pro is so awesome I wish everyone could experience it. The wand is sort of egg shaped and tapers at the end, making it easy to get the lashes in the corners of your eye. But the fact that you get amazing volume and length from a mascara that is Ophthalmologist approved, makes my eyes so happy. Normally, by the end of the day my eyes are watering non-stop because of my mascara. But not with the Lorac Pro! Rockin' Red Hot Lashes set is boxed with a Lorac Pro mascara and a pretty red eyelash curler. You also get a free gift. All for only $23 (I think I paid $25 for the mascara by itself, so I consider this a great deal!)

Smashbox also has an introductory set of their favorites: Eye Liner, Mascara, Primer, Lip Enhancing Gloss and a few more goodies that are well-loved from the brand. There are 6 products total in the kit and it's only $19 as well.

What a great way to try a new brand, or try several products at a low low price.

I also love Ulta because they have an amazing return policy - if you don't like it, take it back. No questions asked. Just hang on to your receipt!

TLC for skin during travel

Traveling isn't easy on your skin, but there are some easy steps you can take to keep your skin looking its best during long flights so you land looking refreshed! Dr. Peredo, M.D., F.A.A.D has compiled some easy ways to take care of your skin in even the most cramped of quarters.

Take care of your skin during flight!

Long Flights in Coach: 

• Keep your skin hydrated by drinking lots of water. It also helps with fatigue, dizziness and light-headedness. 
• Bring a travel sized moisturizer for your face and hands to prevent skin from drying, accentuating fine lines, wrinkles and tiredness due to low humidity and cabin pressure.
• Swipe on a hydrating lip balm. Recirculated air tends to dry out lips. 
• Take along a travel size illuminating eye cream to camouflage under eye circles, darkness and puffiness.
• Avoid salty snacks and alcohol which retain water and cause further dehydration. 
• Try not to wear mascara - the dryness causes the mascara to flake and can irritate your eyes. 

Long Flights in First Class:

• Same as above, plus:
• Ask for a cool wet cloth to lie over your face before you moisturize.  Moisturizing while your face is damp will help to lock in hydration.
• Avoid lowering your seat all the way back.  Fluid may retain in your eyes, causing bags to develop. Instead, sleep with your head elevated on a pillow.
  

Caring for skin in humid weather:

Unlike the havoc humidity wreaks on our hair, it is great for the skin, delivering tons of hydration. Skip heavy moisturizers and opt for a lightweight lotion. Always keep skin protected in hot, humid weather – be sure to slather on SPF, especially when exposed to the sun.

Caring for skin in cold weather:

Use an exfoliating cleanser to slough off dead skin cells that are created when your skin is dry and brittle. Wear a heavier moisturizer with a sunscreen to protect your skin from cold winds.

About Dr. Marina Peredo

Dr. Peredo, M.D., F.A.A.D, is a nationally recognized board certified dermatologist with over 20 years of experience.  Dr. Peredo has successfully treated patients with skin-related conditions and is also regarded as one of the leading dermatologic experts for non-invasive/minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.  She participates in many key professional organizations, conducts numerous clinical studies, is a national trainer, speaker and educator for prestigious dermatologic companies and does pro-bono work for beyond our borders.  www.marinaperedomd.com