Jetting off soon? Where ever you're going, it's always a bit tricky to decide what exactly you'll need while you're away, and what you should leave behind (chances are you aren't going to use that green mascara on holiday any more than you do at home). So to help out we're putting together the perfect kit of products for you to take away with you, whichever kind of holiday you're having! First up: The Beach Holiday Kit, tried and tested by me on my recent holiday (have I mentioned that?) - everything here I couldn't have coped without.
On The Beach Holiday there is one key thing you are going to need: sunscreen. What level SPF you wear depends on your skin type obviously - I am deathly pale so I went for SP 50 (and when my 50 ran out I bought a 60 because I still managed to burn - you burn twice as much in water, remember that guys). Apart from that, spray types are you're friend: way easier to angle them to get the backs of you legs and so on, plus you don't get sand in the bottle. Soltan Once Invisible 8 Hour Sun Protection Dry-Touch Transparent Suncare Spray (£8.74) has a maximum five-star rating against deep-down skin damage caused by UVA rays, is water resistant and sinks in really fast.
As for your face, you want a non-greasy formula that doesn't clog up your pores and can be followed with make up if needs be right? Step in MAC Prep + Prime Face Protect SPF50 (£21.50) - the lightweight formula has high levels of protectection against the effects of UV rays on the skin, as well as controlling shine with its oil-absorbing properties and providing a silky smooth base for make up if needed.
Remember that your hair needs protection too: Wella Professionals Sun Protection Spray (£9.75) helps to protect the hair against UV Rays and sun damage while also keeping it hydrated in the heat. While we're on the suncare, don't forget lipbalm: Carmex Moisture Plus Ultra Hydrating Lip Balm (£4.49) has SPF15 and comes in three tints, so you get moisture, protection from the sun and a sheer wash of colour.
No matter how careful you are, there's always a chance you're going to get burnt - for when you do, pop Palm & Sole's Levelling Balm (£16) into your bag. A thick and rich, but fast absorbing balm, this is great over sore, fried skin. For everyday moisturising, Kiehl's Superbly Restorative Argan Dry Oil (£26.50) is great: Moroccan Argan Oil is combined with antioxidant-enriched emollients and essential fatty acids to make a wonderfully hydrating moisturiser that unlike any oil I've ever used, really does sink in immediately and leaves a sexy sheen (which reflects light, making your skin appear smoother and firmer). It's an excellent multi-tasker too: can be also used as a serum in hair, although beware of using too much of it.
As for make up, the only things you really need for laying on the beach? A good waterproof mascara and a summery nail polish. Max Factor False Lash Effect 24 Hour Mascara (£11.99) is excellent - gives beautifully lengthened lashes and doesn't smudge. Ever. In fact it doesn't budge until you make it, with a oily make-up remover. As for nail polish, Rococo Nail Apparel £12) is free from Formaldehyde, Toluene and DBP and is the ultimate in long-lasting, hard wearing varnish for the beach. Completely unaffected by sea salt or the heat, it keeps its colour and stays intact for at least a week (that was how long the testing period was).
Look out for your City Break Holiday Kit, coming soon!
