Originally, I never understood the fascination with skincare and beauty in the on and offline world, however it became something I got very interested in without thinking. And now realise is a very important part of travel in all its forms. From holidays to longer trips, our skin and how we look after our bodies is important.

Disclaimer: some of the companies I will be mentioning have been in my life ever since I can remember and others a little more recently. Partially because of the values I’ve been brought up with, partially because of my research and partially because of what suits me personally and my skin.

Which is an important thing to care about with any kind of product: does it suit you. Because while I’m keen to share my own personal preferences, I’m not an expert and these products have come in to my suitcase from my own research - and might not be for everyone.

Another disclaimer: I’m aware the term ‘vegan’ on skin and beauty products actually doesn’t mean anything except to sort of half arse imply that it’s made of natural products and might potentially not have been tested on animals. My recommendation? Always look passed this buzzword and do your own research for full peace of mind.

Carbon Footprint

I will never take for granted that the ability to move around at will is both my own making, but also a privilege. So in doing so, I want to make sure I am taking as many ‘imperfect’ steps to do my environment a favour along the way. From the products I consume to the actions I take in the local communities, like clothing banks and using cleaner forms of transport. And being aware of the products within the products and understanding the full cyclical impact all round - like for example, micro plastics in shampoo.

WHAT’S ON MY FACE

But it’s not just about the environmental impact. It’s about being aware of what we’re rubbing into our skin and faces too. For while a product might claim to be enriching and good for your body and have a fancy label and a nice smell, it doesn’t mean it helps.

Again, do your research, but this is why natural products will always be number one for me. And so without further ado, here are a couple of empties from my suitcase (from left to right):

1. Simple Age Resisting Day Cream: I’m not afraid of ageing, promise. The skin is exposed to a lot in the day including wintery weather, heating, air cabins, UV, pollution particles wherever you happen to be and a lot more. So, for me, it’s about protecting a really sensitive layer of the body.

2. The Body Shop Vanilla Pumpkin Hand Cream: for the winter weather and especially after a lot of hand sanitiser use. But also I find fragrant soaps in public bathrooms dry my hands out quickly too.

3. [gifted] The Body Shop Love & Plums Shower Gel: absolutely loved this goodie that I was given from the Body Shop Christmas launch back in October.

4. Nought Travel Size Shampoo & Conditioner: since dying my hair ombre again, this brand has been a staple in my routine for a couple of years. So I had to give the travel sizes a go too.

5. Under Hydrating Masks by Simple and Garnier Skincare: to be completely honest, I only very recently got into the habit of using under eye masks. For after a flight or as some weekly pampering, these two are my current go to’s for a little under eye pick me up.

As we come into the last few days before Christmas, this could also make for some great last minute gifts or stocking fillers also! Whether you or a loved one is looking to switch up the self care routine or planning a slow travel trip for 2022. These are a must!

One thing I wanted to give a try while I was away was new products, so stay tuned in 2022 for a follow up of products to try when abroad…

And until then, stay safe and have a very fabulous Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

Han x