There's a hierarchy to beauty packing: prescriptions come first, then makeup, and finally hair products because chances are I won't even wash my hair, or I'll waste money and have it done somewhere.
Shiseido Urban Environment Protector, $30: Going to LA with no sunscreen is like jumping out of a plane without a parachute -- you could die. Luckily this tiny bottle is perfectly packable.
Biore Makeup Removing Towelettes, $6: I bring these in lieu of face wash and use them every step of the way, starting with the second I board the plane. In-flight breakouts are real!
Boscia Blotting Linens, $10: You can tell how long these have lived in my makeup bag by their mangled exterior. They're great for mopping up any extra sunscreen shine (not that the Shiseido stuff leaves much of that).
Listerine Pocketpacks Breathe Strips, $4 for 3: I pop one of these when I can't get to a sink and use a wisp. Each tiny squares packs an embarrassing level of breath freshening power. Seriously, I've had my mouth scent called out before after slipping in a strip.
Clinique Acne Clearing Concealer, $16: This cover-up has a subtle green tint that counteracts redness and it's really firm so there isn't any annoying migration during the day. I also put it under my eyes when I need to downsize my beauty cargo.
Shiseido Oil-Free Bronzer, $35: My favorite makeup artist Suzy Gerstein put me on to this bronzer when I asked her how to fake super-sharp, sculpted cheekbones. I don't leave the house, let alone the state, without my shade, Desert Rose.
Clindamycin and Retinol Cream: I'm pimple free (knock on wood) thanks to this prescription duo plus an oral antibiotic. The key to making acne drugs work is consistency so I keep these with me no matter what.
Peter Thomas Roth Lashes To Die For The Liner, $28: There's nothing like liquid liner for faking a full night's sleep. This one has a pin-prick tip for extra precision, and promises to enhance lashes in the long run. SOLD.
*********
I'm also going to Strip Ministry of Waxing for a Brazilian tonight -- a good idea before any vacation. Since I want you to have sex-ready smooth lady bits too, I'm offering all first time Strip visitors the $80 service for just $45 through April 30th. Sorry to be NYC-centric, guys.
To get your marked down Brazilian at Strip Ministry of Waxing, simply like xoJane on Facebook and follow me on Twitter @JR_Schott, then mention xoJane when you book your appointment. Easy, non?
Bye bye, boomtings!