Makeup comes in different forms and sizes, and taking different types of makeup on planes can be slightly tricky.
However, generally traveling with items like foundation, makeup palettes, blush, etc., is pretty straightforward.
It’s nowhere near as complicated as traveling with liquid makeup or sharp, dangerous items like some makeup tools.
Here is what to expect.
Makeup in liquid form must be in containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less, packed in a sealed quart-size clear bag for carry-on luggage.
- Makeup in liquid form must be in containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less, packed in a sealed quart-size clear baggie for carry-on luggage.
- No restrictions on solid makeup products.
- There are no restrictions for checked luggage.
Tip: Check out this Travelpro Platinum Elite 21” Carry-On Spinner, a sleek and versatile carry-on that is designed to fit within the limits of most airlines, to save you from the hassle of the airports and the pesky airline fees.
The TSA Rules for Traveling with Makeup Products
The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) regulates what items you can take on flights within and from the United States.
They state that any solid makeup is good to go through the security checkpoint without any restrictions.
This is a screenshot from the TSA website.
| Makeup | Carry-on Bags | Checked Bags |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid Makeup | The TSA liquid rules apply: no more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml for each container. | No limits. |
| Powdered Makeup | No limits, but more than 12 oz / 350 ml will be subject to additional screening. | No limits. |
| Aerosol Makeup | The TSA liquid rules apply: no more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml for a single container. | Usually, a total of 70 oz / 2000 ml (2 kg) is allowed, and each container must not exceed 18 oz / 532 ml. |
Makeup in liquid form, like lotion, nail polish, or mascara, needs to follow the TSA liquid rules when packed in carry-on bags.
Only 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less are allowed for each container, and they must be packed in a sealable transparent quart sized bag.
In case you are not familiar with the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule, here is what it means:
- 3 Each liquid container must be 3.4 ounces / 100 ml or less.
- 1 All toiletries must fit in one clear quart-sized bag.
- 1 Each passenger is only allowed to bring one quart-sized bag of toiletries.
Always pack a reasonable amount of makeup when traveling, whether it is liquid or powder.
Put all your toiletries (liquids) in your personal item so that it’s easy to remove when going through TSA.
Can You Bring Powder Makeup on a Plane?
Powdered makeup products greater than 12 oz / 350 ml need to be removed from the carry-on bag and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening, but they are not required to be packed in the quart-sized bag.
Please note that the final decision on whether an item is allowed or not rests with the TSA officer at the security checkpoint.
Ensure that you communicate politely with the security officer.
Some agents may confiscate an item even if it is within the allowed size, as happened to Ali from travel made simple when they confiscated her salt and pepper shakers without reason.
Can You Take Makeup Palettes on a Plane?
There is no issue when traveling with makeup palettes on a plane, whether in carry-on or checked baggage, in any quantities you want.
However, you should be aware of the airline’s carry-on size and weight limits.
If your makeup palette is more than 12 oz / 350 ml, it must be placed in a separate bin for screening at the checkpoint.
If you encounter a strict agent, they may ask you to open some containers for additional screening.
If you are traveling with fragile powdered items, you can place them inside your shoes; the sides are great for protecting small glass containers.
If you don’t travel with shoes, socks are also a great choice.
Pack Makeup For Your Flight
Before you start packing your makeup, you should know that you don’t need to take all of it with you.
Travel-size containers of products are easy to pack and carry during your trip.
Shampoo or perfumes are available in travel sizes online or in local shops.
When you pack everything together, make sure you don’t mix all your makeup in one bag. Ensure that all caps are screwed on tightly.
Place liquid items in a sealable quart-size clear travel bag, while powdered makeup can be placed in another bag to avoid leaks in your suitcase.
Make sure that you do not place any of your makeup products at the bottom of your bag.
Consider Refillable Plastic Bottles
If you don’t want to take travel-size products or your favorite product doesn’t have travel-size versions, you can invest in refillable small containers.
They will help you fit everything into a small resealable bag.
Resealable ziplock bags are also a good protection for your belongings.
If something happens, you don’t want to find your makeup spilled over your clothing.
How Much Makeup Is Allowed In Checked Baggage ?
There are no limits on how much solid and powdered makeup you can take in checked baggage.
Some types of makeup aerosols need to follow certain limits when transported in checked baggage, which is usually a total of 70 oz / 2000 ml (2 kg). Each bottle must not exceed 18 oz / 532 ml.
Can I Put Makeup on a Plane in My Purse?
Yes, you can take solid makeup in your purse with no quantity or size limitation.
Any makeup that is liquid, paste, or creamy must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less. One small bag is allowed per passenger in carry-on bags.
Final Thoughts
Solid makeup, like foundations, eye-shadow, blush, or other powders, are allowed without limits in carry-on and checked baggage.
But if you are traveling with makeup in liquid form, make sure that you adhere to the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule.
Take containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less in a clear quart-size ziplock bag.
Powdered makeup is also good to bring through the security checkpoint, but any amount greater than 12 oz or 350 ml will be subject to additional screening.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
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