*What to Pack in Your Beauty Kit for a Trip to Paris

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Ah, Paris, the world’s most romantic city. Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées, it’s hard not to fall in love with Paris. The city is full of artistic heritage, wonderful 19th century architecture and of course food and wine to die for. Its grandeur is inspiring and no matter how many times you wander through the winding streets and boulevards, you will never grow bored of the City of Lights. In 2013, Paris was named as the world’s top tourist destination. It welcomed 32.3 million visitors that year. Visitor numbers have dropped in the tragic aftermath of several high-profile terrorist attacks, with a 6.1% drop in tourism income. But, despite the perceived risks, Paris has lost none of its allure, particularly for American visitors.

Shampoo/Conditioner

Many hotels and guest houses provide complimentary shampoo and conditioner but unless you are booked into the Le Bristol, don’t expect your freebies to be top quality products. If you want your hair to look fabulous during your stay, take travel-sized versions of your favourite shampoo and conditioner.

Sunscreen

Paris is cool in winter but summer in Paris can be surprisingly hot. During July and August, temperatures regularly reach the twenties during the day and you will need to apply sunscreen if you want to spend time outdoors. The sun isn’t as strong this far north but it is better to protect your face and other exposed areas. If you travel light, look for a moisturiser with built-in SPF.

Mascara

A tube of mascara is essential, no matter where you visit. Paris can be wet at times, with an average of 25mm of rainfall during April and May, so pack a waterproof mascara if you don’t want to end up with panda eyes.

Eye Liner 

Use an eye pencil to accentuate your eyes or to define your brows if you have a liner that's a good shade match. A slick of mascara and a touch of eye liner is all you need if you are in a rush to beat the crowds at the main Paris attractions. For a night out on the town or a trip to the Folies Bergère, apply eye liner and smudge it for a classic Brigitte Bardot smoky eye look.

Lipstick

Parisian women are notoriously chic and most wouldn’t be seen dead without their trusty red lipstick. If you want to blend in with the locals at a stylish pavement café, keep your makeup to a minimum. Red or crimson lipstick is the only statement you need. Finish the look with skinny jeans and heels. Also a tube of lip balm will keep your lips soft and kissable.

Bronzer

A small pot of bronzer will add definition to your cheeks and a touch of colour after a late night on the tiles. Use bronzer on your décolletage if you wear a low-cut dress or on your eyelids in the absence of eye shadow. It’s the perfect multi-purpose beauty accessory.

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Concealer

No woman should travel to Paris without a tube of concealer to minimise under eye shadows and skin blemishes. Pack it in your carry-on luggage so you can touch up your face before you arrive. Your concealer can also double up as your foundation too if you want a natural base.

Cleanser

Take a small bottle of cleansing fluid to wash the grime and pollution that will invariably accumulate after a long day spent sightseeing in Paris. Cleansing wipes are convenient for use on-the-go but you should follow up with your cleaner afterwards.

Moisturiser

Finish your cleansing routine with a generous application of moisturiser. Use a light moisturiser with built-in SPF for during the day and a thicker product for use before bed. French women tend to avoid foundation as this apparently emphasises wrinkles. If you need some coverage, why not use a tinted moisturiser.

Makeup Remover Wipes

No self-respecting French woman would sleep in her makeup, so take a pack of makeup remover wipes and remember to remove any residual makeup before you hit the pillow.

Tea Tree Oil & Rosehip Oil

Tea tree oil has powerful antiseptic qualities. Mosquitoes are rare in Paris so even if you take a scenic cruise on the River Seine in August, you shouldn’t have any problems. However, tea tree oil is a useful repellent so better safe than sorry. Rosehip oil has powerful anti-aging properties and is good for the immune system. Apply daily for optimum protection, whatever the weather. Enjoy your trip!

Have you been to Paris? What are your travel beauty staples? 

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