I’m definitely a beauty junkie, which means you can name a product—from eyeliners to highlighters to my-lips-but-better lipsticks—and I surely have at least a few different options. But when I’m traveling, that goes out the window: I pare down my skin and makeup routines to the bare essentials so I can fit everything I need in a single carry-on. When I have to get smart about what I pack, I go simple with a few tried-and-true products that can do more than one thing. Hey, we multitask at work all the time—why not during our skincare routines too?
Whether you’re looking to save cash by killing two birds with one stone or you’re just trying to minimize your makeup bag for simplicity’s sake, it’s time to look at products known for their versatility. From multi-use to multitasking, here are five beauty products to make sure you have on hand.
1. Ouai Rose Hair & Body Oil
This haircare brand from celeb stylist Jen Atkin is my favorite answer to the What the hell do I do with my hair? question. I have major waves and curls, and the best way I’ve found to tame the frizz is with Ouai’sRose Hair & Body Oil. Once I realized I could put it on my legs post-steamy shower, my life was changed.
The absinthium, shea, and rosehip oils moisturize and hydrate; the subtle rose scent is an added bonus! And since Ouai never tests on animals, this is a head-to-toe oil you can truly feel good about.
2. Milk Makeup Holographic Stick
We’ve all heard of the NARS Multiple, and it’s a classic for a reason. But if you’re looking for an animal-friendly, eco-conscious alternative, Milk Makeup’sHolographic Stick is the vegan answer to your prayers. The highlighter, which comes in three shades—Supernova, a holographic purple; Mars, a shimmery peach; and Stardust, a sweet pink—will work wonders on your entire face.
Lightly swipe Supernova across your lids and cheekbones for a poppin’ highlight or use Stardust to get matchy-matchy on your lips and apples of your cheeks. For a summery glow, use Mars over all three.
3. Glossier Balm Dotcom
It’s the cult-fave product from a cult-fave brand: Glossier’sBalm Dotcom is touted as a universal skin salve, and it certainly lives up to its reputation. Use it to repair [linkbuilder id=”6481″ text=”cracked lips”], chapped cheeks, and frayed cuticles. The waxy texture sits on your skin, ensuring moisture is locked in; use it over your favorite lip balm or hand lotion and you’ll be fixed up in no time.
The balm comes in six flavors—two of which give a sheer wash of color—and is addicting enough that you’ll want one in every purse you own.
4. Son & Park Beauty Water
Sephora only sells two products from Korean beauty brand Son & Park, which is a shame, because their Beauty Water is a must-have in my beauty arsenal. This multitasking master—which comes in the sleekest packaging ever—can be used as a cleanser, a toner, and an exfoliant gentle enough for everyday use. It creates a smooth base for applying foundation when used during the day, and at night it’s a relaxing way to take it all off.
It’s formulated with lavender and rose waters and orange and papaya extract, which will make your skin look brighter than ever—all thanks to a little water.
5. Korres Wild Rose Sleeping Facial
Unlike the other products highlighted, this isn’t a multi-use product, but it is a damn good multitasker. Korres’Wild Rose Advanced Brightening Sleeping Facial is a powerful mask packed into a little jar that you use—as the name implies—while you’re sleeping. If you’re getting lax on your skincare routine or jet lag has you running a bit behind, try an overnight facial to restore some lost luminosity.
The cruelty-free and eco-friendly Greek beauty brand created this sleeping mask with wild rose oil, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid, which together deliver a serious dose of hydration and radiance you can see as soon as you wake up.