I have always romanticised the idea of travel beauty, especially in a summer destination. There's more time to spend on makeup looks, touch-ups are easier thanks to a light tan... but the reality is different. It's hot, humid, and I'm dealing with shine, breakouts and heat-induced pigment. Plus, I can't really be bothered to do an entire face (despite all the extra free time).

But I do still want to wear something — it's nice to feel just a little bit 'done'. I packed a lot of makeup, by my standards, but so far have only really reached for these six products. Great on vacation, but also conducive to real life. All of them in situ and explained, below.

 

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MESOESTETIC Mesoprotech 130 Pigment Control

I won't talk about this in the context of SPF specifically but instead as a skin tint. Yes, it's protective but I love the way it unifies my skin tone without looking like makeup. I also have a lot of pigment that reveals itself when I'm in a hot climate so anything I can do to prevent or lessen this is a yes from me.

WESTMAN ATELIER Liquid Super Loaded Tint

A liquid bronzer is such a boon on vacation because it will course correct any base products that look ghostly should you develop a light tan. Also, they can be mixed into moisturiser for a healthy glow, or worn alone to take the edge off skin that's been hidden behind a screen for months. I love the Westman Atelier Liquid Super Loaded Tint because it's sheer, not too sparkly but still very effortless. It makes a visible difference, is neutral enough in tone (i.e. not orange or grey) but doesn't look 'bronze-y', or resemble dodgy fake tan. I use Peau de Soleil, but if you were quite fair you could reach for Peau de Peche instead.

CHANEL BEAUTY Cream Bronzer

I love this product and use it almost daily, but it's especially great on holiday for its versatility. I use it as a cream bronzer and not a contour, dusting it over high points where I would naturally tan (the tops of my cheeks, bridge of my nose, top of my forehead and under my brows. It's easy to use, blends seamlessly and feels like it will never run out. Cost per use is 10/10.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

Concealer is just so much easier than foundation. I am too lazy to do an entire base on holiday, plus it would just melt off. The Creamy Radiant Concealer has enough pigment to diffuse redness and hide spots, and enough grip to stay on the skin in sweltering conditions.

ILIA Multi-Stick

A lip/cheek tint hybrid is a non-negotiable. I love the Ilia's Multi-Stick and my current favourite shade is 'A Fine Romance'. It's got a deep berry tone that looks like a natural sun kiss, and the formula itself dries down just a little (I want skin that looks dewy, but not wet). Use it on cheeks, lips... even eyes if you're into a tonal makeup. A brush is good, but fingers are also fine. I also packed Sisley's Phyto-Balm in Pink Glow and the Augustinus Bader Sofia Coppola Tint in the shade 3.