SOS! Glow Up: Pre-Vacation Beauty Checklist

As the vacation season approaches, it’s the perfect time to get ready for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. Whether you’re heading to a tropical paradise, cozy mountain retreat, or bustling city, this countdown beauty checklist will ensure you’re prepped and primed for a fabulous getaway. From radiant skin to perfectly packed bags, we’ve got you covered! 🌴✨

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Why Prep Early?

Prepping for your holiday doesn’t have to be stressful. Starting early gives you plenty of time to focus on self-care routines that leave you feeling confident and glowing. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid last-minute panic and enjoy the excitement of your upcoming trip. Let’s dive into the steps to achieve that ultimate glow for your vacation!

1. Get a Radiant Glow with a Facial (3-4 Weeks Before)

Kick off your holiday prep with a refreshing facial. A professional or DIY facial (check out my DIY facial post if you’re stuck for ideas) will cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate your skin, leaving you with a radiant glow. Opt for a treatment that addresses your specific skin type and concerns, whether it’s dryness, dullness, or acne.

• Pro Tip: Try to do anything detoxing a few weeks before to avoid bringing blemishes to the surface right before your holiday. This is the most important step for achieving a flawless summer glow.

2. Achieve a Sun-Kissed Look with Self-Tanner (1 Week Before)

If you love the look of a sun-kissed tan but want to avoid harmful UV rays, self-tanner is your best friend. Apply a gradual self-tanning lotion or mousse a few days before your trip for a natural, bronzed look. Don’t forget to exfoliate and moisturize beforehand to ensure an even application and remove any dead skin cells.

• Pro Tip: Exfoliate 24 hours before applying self-tanner for the best results. This will help you avoid streaks and achieve a healthy glow

3. Smooth Skin with Hair Removal (3-5 Days Before)

If you like smooth, hair-free skin, decide your preferred method of hair removal—waxing, shaving, or epilating—a few days before departure to allow any redness or skin irritation to subside. If you’re waxing, book your appointment at least 48 hours before you hit the beach.

• Pro Tip: For a longer-lasting solution, consider waxing or epilating. Shaving is quick but may require touch-ups during your trip.

4. Perfectly Groomed Brows (3-5 Days Before)

Well-groomed brows frame your face and give you a polished look. Visit a professional for threading, waxing, or tinting, or do it yourself with a good pair of tweezers and brow gel. Stick to your natural shape for a flattering, easy-to-maintain look that enhances your beauty routine.

• Pro Tip: Schedule your brow appointment a few days before departure to allow any redness to calm down.

5. Manicure and Pedicure Perfection (2-3 Days Before)

Your hands and feet deserve some love, too! Treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure in vibrant holiday colors. Gel polish works great to ensure your nails stay chip-free throughout your trip. If you opt for traditional polish, don’t forget to pack a small bottle of your chosen shade for touch-ups.

• Pro Tip: Choose a color that complements your skin tone and matches your vacation wardrobe for a low maintenence look.

6. Body Scrub for Silky Smooth Skin (2-3 Days Before)

A good body scrub will slough off dead skin cells, leaving your skin soft and smooth. Use a scrub with natural ingredients like sugar or salt, and follow up with a rich buttery moisturizer or body oil. This will not only prep your skin for self-tanner but also make it look and feel amazing.

• Pro Tip: Focus on areas like elbows, knees, and ankles, which tend to be drier and can absorb self-tanner unevenly.

7. Gather Your Minis and Travel Containers (1 Week Before)

Travel-size products are essential for keeping your luggage light and your skincare routine intact. Gather mini versions of your skincare, haircare, and body care products, or invest in reusable travel containers to decant your favorite products.

• Pro Tip: Don’t forget essentials like face oil, sunscreen, and a silk pillowcase for your travels. These small touches can make a big difference in maintaining your glow.

8. SPF for On-the-Go Protection (Pack 1-2 Days Before)

Sun protection is non-negotiable! Pack a travel-sized SPF for easy top-ups throughout the day. Look for a broad-spectrum formula that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and make sure it’s suitable for your face and body. This is essential for maintaining a radiant complexion.

• Pro Tip: SPF sticks are a great idea for touch-ups and save space in your luggage, especially with the 100ml liquid travel restriction.

9. Pack a Capsule Wardrobe with Easy, Versatile Clothes (1 Week Before)

When it comes to holiday packing, less is more. Choose clothes that are lightweight, easy to wash, and quick to dry. Think flowy dresses, versatile tops, and comfortable shorts that can be dressed up or down. This way, you’ll have stylish options without the heavy bags.

• Pro Tip: Stick to a color palette that mixes and matches easily, so you can create multiple outfits with fewer pieces.

10. Final Touches: Hair and Makeup Essentials (1-2 Days Before)

• Hair: Consider a new hairstyle or treatment like lash lifts to enhance your natural beauty. If you’re dealing with split ends, a trim before your trip can make your hair look healthier.
• Makeup: Pack a minimal makeup kit with essentials like highlighter sticks, tinted moisturizer, and a versatile lip color. This is the best way to keep your look fresh and effortless.

Checklist: Your Vacation Prep Timeline

To make things even easier, here’s a summary timeline of what to do and when:

Timeline	Task
3-4 Weeks Before	Book a facial or plan a DIY facial to kickstart your glow.
1 Week Before	Apply self-tanner, gather travel minis, and start packing your capsule wardrobe.
3-5 Days Before	Hair removal, brow grooming, and body scrubbing.
2-3 Days Before	Manicure, pedicure, and finalize your packing.
1-2 Days Before	Pack SPF, makeup essentials, and do a final check of your travel items.

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Final Thoughts

Prepping for your holiday doesn’t have to be stressful. With these beauty tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy your vacation looking and feeling your best version. Remember, the key is to keep it simple and focus on essentials that make you feel confident and beautiful.

Ready to start your holiday prep? Share your own beauty tips in the comments below. 🏖️

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Summary of Key Points

1. Start Early: Begin your prep 3-4 weeks before your trip for the best results.
2. Focus on Skincare: Facials, exfoliation, and hydration are key to a radiant summer glow.
3. Pack Smart: Use travel-sized products and a capsule wardrobe to save space and stress.
4. Protect Your Skin: Don’t forget SPF and after-sun care to maintain your glow.
5. Keep It Simple: Stick to a routine that enhances your natural beauty without overcomplicating things.