The Great Escape: An Easy Vacation Beauty Routine

When you are a product junkie, editing your beauty routine for traveling is sort of like a Rubik's cube. Downsizing has its appeal when you are like me though and have more lipsticks than fingers and toes!

Here are my picks for going on a trip and Zen-ing out your toiletries bag:

MAKEUP 

LIPS: One lipstick can work three ways: a lip stain, a regular lipstick and blush in a pinch. Eyeshadow Government loves Laura Mercier's new Bing Cherry lipstick ($22). For a more casual, beachy look, apply this hydrating lipstick to just your top lip and press your lips together for a pretty "lip stain." Then, blot with a tissue.

Worn as a solid lipstick, this shade is pure glamour. You can apply this sexy, red lipstick for a fancy meal by the waterfront or to dress up a lightweight, cotton dress in the afternoon. Also, it's naturally shiny, so you don't need to pack lip gloss.

FOUNDATION: BareMinerals Matte SPF 15 foundation ($28) is an easy solution for days spent sightseeing in the sunshine.  Just don't forget to pack a foundation brush or a cluster of cotton balls to apply the powder.

BLUSH: NARS multiple in Portofino ($39) gives cheeks a shimmery, coral glow. Blush with a touch of orange makes your face appear more vibrant and awake. Even if you're the tourist, that doesn't mean you can't be the main attraction.

SKINCARE

HONEY, I SHRUNK THE...: MUJI and the Container Store both sell a wide selection of travel bottles. Containers will make your toiletries bag lighter and less spill-prone. The Japanese store MUJI even sells a handy dropper and spatula kit for transferring your skincare products into little canisters. Pick one of these kits up at their SoHo location for just $1.50!

A great kit for travelers at MUJI.

MUJI canister ($1.50).

SUNBLOCK: Sun protection you can spray on makes getting ready for your day a cakewalk. Shop for a bottle of Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunblock in SPF 45 ($9) before you hop on a flight!

CLEANSE: Wash up after strolling the alleys of a remote village or exploring a dusty country road. If you don't have a regular facial cleanser in your bathroom, try out One Love Organics Easy Does It Foaming Cleanser ($29). I can attest this product improves your overall appearance, reduces breakouts and thoroughly cleanses without drying out skin.

SERUM AND MOISTURIZER: Even in humid weather, be kind to your skin and bring moisturizer! If the air conditioning is on full blast in your hotel room, slather on moisturizer before you doze off as well as in the morning. Celebrities like using Tata Harper Rejuvenating Serum ($150). This serum contains a unique blend of menyanthes flower to tone, meadowsweet to lightly exfoliate, and jasmine and chamomile essential oils to moisturize and calm the skin. If your skin type is slightly oily, Nuxe Paris Creme Fraiche De Beaute Light Moisturising Emulsion ($44.50) hydrates and reduces shine.

Wishing you many fabulous adventures this hot, hot, hot summer!

XOXO,
Charlotte