Top 6 Summer Vacation Makeup Must Haves

When I go on vacation, I try my hardest to pack as lightly as possible.

Try is the operative word here.

I tend to go light on things like underwear (I have been known to forget them entirely) and heavy on shoes (bringing an entire suitcase full). On my upcoming trip to Jamaica my husband has limited me to one bag. For everything.

No problem, I told him. All I need for a week in paradise is a couple of bikinis, maxi dresses, sandals … and my makeup bag.

Have I told you that pre-baby I was a full time makeup artist? For four years I managed a cosmetic counter and accumulated more makeup than I know what to do with. Since my hubby is severely restricting my luggage, I have to restrict my makeup and only bring the absolute essentials.

While I have never been to Jamaica, I have been to another exotic locale so I have an idea of what the climate will be like. And let’s be honest, Columbia, South Carolina in the summer time is the hottest, muggiest, place on earth. If my tried and true products can stand a Soda City heat wave, Jamaica ain’t got anything on me.

Without further adieu, here is my list of Summer Vacation Must Have Makeup:

Tinted Moisturizer

There is no way I am going to slather my face in a full coverage foundation for an evening of dining al fresco next to the sparkling blue ocean. Tinted Moisturizer is a light coverage base that evens out skin tone while doubling as extra SPF.

My favorite

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF20: A perfect blend of skincare and makeup that helps control oil-breakthrough and gives skin a sheer hint of color for a healthy, natural glow.

Tinted Lip Balm

I own more tubes of lipsticks than I care to share, but during the summer I find most lipsticks to be too heavy. A tinted lip balm is a great option for a pop of color. Opt for a formula with an SPF to protect your pout.

My favorites (I couldn’t pick just one!)

Sugar SPF 15 Lip Treatment: Not only are the colors fantastic, but the formula is super smooth and leaves your lips well hydrated.

Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge: I love a product that pulls double duty. The creamy Pot Rouge can be worn on the lips and the cheeks!

Waterproof Mascara

No one wants raccoon eyes after an afternoon of jet skiing (yes, I am that girl who wears mascara while jet skiing), so waterproof is essential.

My favorites

Benefit BADgal Waterproof Mascara: I love the big fat brush and the ability to apply multiple coats without clumping.

Great Lash Waterproof Mascara: This cult favorite drugstore adds a ton of volume and won’t sweat off!

Cream Eye Shadow

When the climate is warm, chances are your eye makeup is going to sweat off. Cream shadows are amazing because regardless of the heat, they absolutely do not move.

My favorite

Bobbi Brown Longwear Cream Eye Shadow: This cream eye shadow is my go to for everyday wear and my favorite for hot weather. I have tested it after an afternoon of swimming and was amazed it stayed on!

Bronzer/Blush

Blush is kind of my thing and I rarely leave home without a pop of color on my cheeks. Since I will be outdoors for as much as humanly possible while on vacation, I need something that will last and can also help control excess oil.

My favorites

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Custom Glow Blush & Bronzer: It comes in an array of true to skin tone shades that blend perfectly.

Nars Blush/Bronzer Duo: This duo is the jam! It is a bit of a splurge, but lasts forever and will give your newly tanned skin a healthy glow.

Sunscreen

While not exactly makeup, sunscreen is the most vital thing in my vacation makeup bag. I have been blessed with porcelain skin, but with this blessing comes the curse of easy sunburns. Sunblock is essential to my ability to enjoy my vacation. While my everyday face moisturizer has an SPF25, an entire week on the sandy beaches of Jamaica calls for more protection.

My favorite:

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen: The oil free formula won’t clog your pores and is sweat resistant for up to 80 minutes.

These are a few of my must haves, what are yours?