We’re a bit nosey at Birchbox UK, and will take any chance to peek into unfamiliar places. Whether that means rummaging through our mum’s dressing table or pouring out the contents of our friend’s make-up bag, this is how we come across some of our best discoveries. That’s why we persuaded editorial exec Grace to unzip her suitcase and share the products that she’s taking on her upcoming holiday to Italy.
Make-up Essentials
- Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Powder: This is a beaut – it gives a luminous finish but is completely undetectable on the skin.
- Clarins Splendours Summer Bronzing Compact: I’ll sweep this over my face for a little extra bronze. It looks lovely on top of freckles.
- Chanel’s Illusion D’Ombre: In Epatant, this is my secret weapon for a particular special night out. You can apply and blend out with your ring finger for a really easy, three-dimensional smokey eye.
- Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Light Pink: Great for a pretty flush. The moisturising formula makes it dewy on the cheeks and non-drying on lips. A fab multi-tasker.
- Benefit They’re Real! Mascara: Offers non-smudging, fluttery lashes that can be built up to create a more dramatic look for the evening.
- Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer: Ideal for under eye circles and covering spots. I’ll be dabbing this on areas I need it with a little mascara if I wear make-up in the day.
- Mirenesse Glossy Kiss in Quick Kiss: The only lip colour (other than my Fresh SPF Lip Treatment) I’ll be taking. It’s a fun, bright orange that looks amazing with a tan.
- Laura Mercier’s Tinted Moisturizer: I love how this oil-free formula is non-greasy, but still gives a healthy looking glow.
Skincare Saviours
- Origins VitaZing: My go-to summer moisturiser – the light formula releases tiny tinted beads that dissolve into the skin for a very subtle bronzed finish.
- Murad’s Correcting Moisturizer: In case my skin goes a little red in the sun and needs correcting.
- Green & Spring’s Shower & Bath Foam: Part of their Relaxing Travel Set, this soothes and nourishes skin plus smells divine.
- Coola’s Classic Face SPF 30: This is my face SPF of choice – it’s super lightweight and layers well under foundation/tinted moisturiser while protecting you from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Emma Hardie’s Cleansing Balm: Just ‘cus you’re on holiday doesn’t mean your proper cleanse goes out the window, gals!
- Taaj’s Micellar Water: Gently removes waterproof mascara in a flash.
- Coola’s Sport Continuous Spray SPF 35: I tested this while at the park a couple of weeks ago and loved it. It leaves a lovely sheen to the skin and the spray means your not fiddling about rubbing in thick white lotions.
- Sisley’s After-Sun Care Tan Extender: This luxe formula calms and repairs sun-exposed skin while the self-tanning active ingredients enhance its natural colour.
… And The Rest
- OPI Nail Laquer in Cajun Shrimp: A bright orangey-coral that screams summer.
- Bumble and bumble’s Surf Spray: Gives gorgeous beachy waves without actually using sea water.
- Diptyque’s Philosykos: My all-year-round favourite scent. I couldn’t leave the country without it.
- Whish’s Shave Cream: This was a gift from our US office that I can’t wait to try!
That’s what I’ll be packing, but what about you? Let me know your holiday essentials in the comments below!
– Grace