Only pack the basics for a stress-free beauty routine

I am writing the column this week in the air, halfway across the Atlantic on my way home from England. I have done this trip several times in the last couple of years, so I am becoming quite proficient at packing suitcases!

All too often that bulging toiletries bag finds its way into the case, so streamline. There are a couple of ways of creating a suitcase-friendly beauty routine.

Source out multi-use products. A favourite of mine is a hair shampoo that doubles as a shower gel or body cleanser for a soak in the tub. Use mini sizes of any products you use. If they are not available, purchase a mini-size kit and fill them with your own products.

Condense your makeup products. Look for a neutral palette that contains a blush, eye shadow selection and often lip colours. This can save space and weight over having a bag full of loose products.

Pare down your skin care products to a cleanser, toner and moisturizer to maintain a basic routine. You can leave the scrubs, masks, night creams, etc. for when you are at home.

It is amazing how with a little planning and effort you can ensure you don’t go over that baggage allowance.

I heard this week that Mariah Carey had arrived at Heathrow Airport with more than 25 bulging suitcases!

Lay out the clothes that you are thinking of taking, then start to pare down. Pair up the T-shirts and tops with the shorts, skirts and pants you are taking. Pack items that have versatility and can be dressed up for an evening out.

According to Nicky Hambleton-Jones, a style advisor, “The kaftan is the No. 1 must-have item this summer.” Many of the top European designers had kaftans going down the catwalks this year.

Team with a pair of light cotton pants, a denim skirt or leggings or even as a beach cover up. A pretty bead necklace and a little black skirt and you’re ready for the evening.

With the fabrics available now that have a poly-cotton blend, you can rinse out pants, shorts and tops in the evening, hang them up and they will be dry in the morning.

If you are taking a straw sun hat, prevent it from getting squashed by stuffing it with T-shirts or your swimsuit.

If you need to take a blow dryer or flat iron, check out the travel sizes available now.

You can save space and weight with just a little planning, and you won’t get crippled getting that suitcase off the luggage belt with you reach you destination!

Glenys Pearson is a certified esthetician, hair designer, aroma therapist, La Stone therapist and award-winning make-up artist. Any questions you may have or topics you would like covered please call 847-0040 or email intuitionsspa@hotmail.com.