Ladies and gentlemen, when we go on a trip, whether it's for a weekend, a week or more, we often tend to want to take our entire bathroom with us. However, there's no need to pack your bathroom full of unnecessary products that could spill, get lost or expire. All you need to do is choose the essential products, adapted to your destination, your skin type and your needs. Here's a list of 10 wellness and cosmetic products you should never forget when travelling, so you can make a toiletry bag for two and save space in your suitcase!
1) Sun cream:
Sun cream is the essential product for protecting your skin from UV rays, which are responsible for skin ageing, sunburn & skin spots. You need to choose your sun cream according to your skin type, its protection factor and its water resistance. It should be applied generously and regularly to all exposed parts of the body, including the face, neck, ears and hands. It should also be reapplied after every swim, rub-down or perspiration. To avoid the dangers of UV rays, we advise against sun exposure during the hottest hours, between 12pm and 4pm. Wear a hat, sunglasses and covering clothing as soon as possible.
2) Lip balm:
Lip balm moisturises, nourishes and repairs the lips, which are very sensitive to external aggressions: the sun's rays, the wind, the cold or air conditioning. Choose a lip balm enriched with moisturising agents such as shea butter, coconut oil or aloe vera, and protective agents such as beeswax, honey or lanolin. Apply it regularly to your lips, especially before and after exposure to the sun, wind or cold. You should also avoid licking your lips, which dries them out even more.
3) A facial moisturiser:
Moisturising face cream is essential for maintaining the hydration, elasticity and softness of facial skin, which is subject to the same external aggressions as the lips. You need to choose a facial moisturiser that is suited to your skin type and texture. You can apply your cream morning and night to the face and neck, after cleansing and toning your skin. In addition, remember to drink enough water, at least 1.5 litres a day, to hydrate your skin from the inside out.
4) A facial cleansing gel:
Facial cleansing gel is a must, to remove impurities, sebum, make-up and traces of pollution that accumulate on the skin of the face during the day. Choose a gentle, soap-free, alcohol-free and fragrance-free facial cleanser that respects the skin's pH and hydrolipidic film. You can use it morning and evening, gently massaging the gel into the face and neck, then rinsing with lukewarm water. Avoid rubbing or pulling on the skin, which can irritate or weaken it.
5) Micellar water:
Micellar water, mainly used by women, is useful for removing make-up and cleansing the face, removing any residue of make-up or limescale that may remain on the skin. You need to choose a micellar water suited to your skin type, based on its composition and fragrance. Just like a cleansing gel, you can use it morning and night by soaking a cotton pad in micellar water, then wiping it over your face and neck, without rubbing or rinsing. Avoid leaving the cotton pad on the skin for too long, as this can dry it out or make it more sensitive.
6) Deodorant:
Travelling can mean hiking, walking and hot weather. Deodorant is very useful for preventing and masking unpleasant odours from perspiration, which can also be aggravated by stress or a change in diet. Once again, choose your deodorant according to your skin type, as some are more fragile than others, while paying attention to its formula and fragrance. It should be applied in the morning, after a shower, to clean, dry underarms. Avoid deodorants containing alcohol, aluminium salt or synthetic fragrances, which can irritate or clog pores.
7) Toothbrush and toothpaste:
A toothbrush & toothpaste are the two essential products for good oral hygiene, which is vital for preventing cavities, gingivitis, bad breath and infections. You need to choose a toothbrush suited to the size of your mouth, paying attention to the flexibility of its bristles. As for toothpaste, it should be adapted to your needs. Some protect the gums, others are formulated to promote whiter teeth, and still others strengthen the enamel. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, for two minutes, using gentle, circular movements on all sides. Remember to change your toothbrush every three months, or more often if the bristles are damaged.
8) Shampoo and conditioner:
Shampoo and conditioner cleanse, nourish and protect the hair, which is also exposed to the same external aggressions as the skin and lips. It's important to choose a shampoo and conditioner suited to your hair type. To get the most out of your shampoo, massage it into the scalp, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Apply conditioner to the lengths and ends of your hair, avoiding the roots, then leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing. Avoid shampoos and conditioners containing sulphates, silicones or parabens, which can dry, weigh down or damage the hair.
9) Moisturising body lotion:
Whether you're on a winter or summer holiday, a moisturising body lotion is a must-have in your luggage to moisturise, nourish and soften your skin, which can be dry, rough or dull from the weather, water or soap. Once again, choose your moisturiser according to your skin type. You can apply it every day, after a shower, all over your body, concentrating on the driest areas, such as elbows, knees or heels. Avoid body moisturisers containing alcohol, synthetic fragrances or dyes, which can irritate or sensitise the skin.
10) A first aid kit:
Very often forgotten, the first-aid kit is the essential product for dealing with minor injuries or illnesses that can occur when travelling, such as cuts, abrasions, burns, stings, headaches, stomach aches, nausea, allergies, infections... You need to choose a first-aid kit suited to your destination, the length of your trip and the activities you'll be doing.
