GETAWAY ESSENTIALS PART 2

Words: Leila Petersen | Images: Supplied

Ah, the sweet smell of an early summer break is here. Sure, you’ve managed to edit down your weekend wardrobe to the basics, but what about your beauty bag? Just because you are on a mini-vacation, doesn’t mean your beauty routine should be on one, too. In this two-part series, we find out from the beauty experts what they pack for a summer weekend away – those essentials that take them from the sand to sundowners. In part 2, we chat to beauty and grooming editor Jesé-Ché Lillianfeldt and editor Kelly Fung. Missed part one? Get the lowdown here.

Jesé-Ché Lillianfeldt, Beauty and Grooming Editor at Glamour + GQ

How do you decide which beauty products to pack for your getaway?

It always depends on where I’m headed and the time of year. What counts most is if I’ll have a lot of downtime or whether it’s more of an adventure weekend, which would mean I take more of a minimal approach. However, I must admit I am an optimistic packer, so I always pack lots of beauty products in the hopes that I’ll have time to use them all.

What are the key skincare products that you take along?

Taking care of your skin on holiday is just as vital as if you were home. I always take micellar water and face wash to remove makeup and wash away excess oil and dirt. A serum is another crucial product that keeps my skin hydrated. A refreshing mist is key – not only does it give my skin an extra boost of hydration, but also ensures my makeup looks fresh for longer. And then lastly, I always pack a soothing mask. Skin sometimes reacts to the change in environment and aggressors and a mask allows my skin to feel purified and not irritated.

And then when it comes to makeup – which products are always packed in your bag?

A multipurpose oil that I can use on my face, body and hair (NUXE does an amazing one). Creating a smooth, dewy complexion is key, so I always take a primer and foundation. A waterproof mascara is also super important to give me that wide-awake look without the stress of smudging, especially if I am jumping in and out of the pool or sea! Lastly, ensuring my pout is on point is a must, so I always carry some chapstick to help keep my lips hydrated throughout the weekend and a nude lipstick to create a natural sheen.

Sunscreen is one of the products one should never leave behind. How do you decide on the factor and formula?

On holiday I prefer a spray-on sunscreen, as it’s easier in terms of application. I also prefer a transparent spray that won’t leave behind any white residue. I love to go for sunscreens that provide high UVB and UVA protection and I don’t go for an SPF lower than 50. I also look for water-resistant properties and strong antioxidants that still nurture and care for your skin.

Take us through your go-to mini-break makeup look…

I prefer a more minimal makeup look. So I often mix some bronzer into my moisturiser or even sunscreen for a shimmery and fresh glow. I love multipurpose products such as a highlighter stick or lipstick that can be used on cheeks and lids. I prefer natural brows, so I’ll just give them a comb through and lightly brush some waterproof mascara through them for some definition.

Any other tips you can share about beauty on your break? How you store products or beauty hacks?

I always put my products in the fridge – this not only helps to preserve the product, but the cool formula is so refreshing and can even soothe the skin if you have any flare-ups while you are away. Although I try to avoid becoming sunburnt at all costs, it can still happen. An easy way to calm the skin is to soak some teabags in cool water and then place them onto the burnt areas.

Follow Jesé-Ché Lillianfeldt Instagram.

Kelly Fung, Editor

How do you decide which beauty products to pack for your weekend away?

I put my practical cap on and take only what I need: a skeleton skin routine, SPF, a travel-sized fragrance and maybe I'll pop in a sheet mask just in case. I also stay away from big, bulky packaging. No matter what my purpose of travel, I like to be streamlined and pack minimally.

What are the key skincare products that you take along?

A cleanser (currently I'm double cleansing, but I'll take only one), brightening serum, moisturiser and SPF.

And then when it comes to makeup, which products are always packed in your bag?

Usually, I'd take a lighter foundation, some illuminator, a lip stain and I don't go anywhere without a bit of eyeliner.

Sunscreen is one of the products one should never leave behind. How do you decide on the factor and formula?

My SPF needs to be UVB and UVA protective most importantly. These days, advancements in sunscreen mean it won’t cast that white film over your face and it's possible to find one that's not greasy and lightweight on application. Sunscreen should feel comfortable on your skin, no matter your skin type. I opt for ones that I don't mind reapplying throughout the day, especially if I am in the direct sun.

Take us through your go-to mini-break makeup look...

A mini-break is just that, a break! So I don't think too hard about “a look”. If I do anything, it has to be effortless – a dewy foundation that I can dot onto my face with my fingers, a lip stain that wears into my lips throughout the day so I don't have to keep reapplying and mascara that doesn't run. A final spritz of finishing spray means a skin refresh and makeup that doesn't need too much further thought.

Any other tips you can share about beauty on your break? How you store products or beauty hacks?

Plan! Premeditated packing means you don't have to bring everything with you. I hate lugging around big bottles of shampoo, for instance. Rather take travel sizes – trust me, these are lifesavers. Another big must-have for me is a hydrating facial mist. They can make your complexion look alive in no time. Lastly, while you may want to look holiday-fabulous all the time, use your break to let your skin have a break, too. Minimise makeup and simplify your skincare routine.

Follow Kelly Fung on Instagram.