Michael Turner
Yes – liquids and gels are allowed in cabin baggage only if each container is ≤100 ml (3.4 fl oz) and all such containers fit inside a single transparent resealable bag with capacity no greater than 1 litre (1 quart).
Solid beauty products (powder compacts, solid lipstick, pressed eyeshadows) are generally permitted without the 100 ml restriction; liquid foundations, creams, serums, mascaras and liquid concealers fall under the 100 ml rule. Aerosol sprays follow the same volume limit for cabin carriage and may carry additional airline or state restrictions.
Powdered products larger than about 350 ml (12 oz) may trigger extra screening in some countries (United States airports frequently apply this threshold). Pack powders larger than 350 ml in checked baggage to avoid delays during security checks.
Flammable solvents (acetone-based removers) and large aerosol cans are restricted. Do not place flammable liquids or pressurised containers exceeding permitted volumes in cabin baggage; check the carrier’s dangerous goods rules before travel. Small perfume bottles must comply with the 100 ml rule and fit in the single clear bag.
Battery-powered beauty devices: built-in lithium-ion batteries in personal devices are allowed in the cabin. Spare lithium-ion batteries and power banks must be carried in the cabin, not in checked baggage. Limits: up to 100 Wh permitted without approval; 100–160 Wh require airline approval; above 160 Wh are prohibited.
Sharp tools: disposable razors, tweezers and nail clippers are acceptable in cabin bags; straight razors and razor blades are prohibited. Small scissors with blade length under 4 inches (≈10 cm) are usually allowed but may be removed at screening at security officer discretion.
Medicated liquids and baby formula are exempt from the 100 ml limit but must be declared and presented separately at security; bring prescriptions or supporting documentation. For international departures, verify both the departure and arrival country rules and the airline’s specific policy before packing.
Practical steps: transfer liquids into travel-size containers ≤100 ml, seal them in a single clear resealable bag, place that bag on top during security screening, label any medical liquids, and move larger or potentially restricted products to checked baggage when uncertainty exists.
Rules for transporting cosmetics in cabin baggage
Place all liquid, gel and aerosol cosmetic products in containers no larger than 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) and group them inside a single transparent resealable 1‑litre clear bag; one bag per passenger is permitted at security checkpoints.
- Liquids, gels, creams, mascara and liquid foundations: each container ≤100 ml, all must fit into the one 1‑litre clear bag.
- Powders (loose face powders, bronzer): containers over 350 ml (12 oz) may be subject to additional screening or required to go into checked baggage.
- Aerosols (hairspray, shaving foam): size limits apply and some carriers restrict flammable aerosols – check airline policy before travel.
- Sharp tools (razor blades, manicure blades): loose blades must be packed in checked baggage; disposable razors and safety razors with blade secured are usually permitted in cabin baggage.
- Battery-powered devices (electric brushes, trimmers): devices with installed lithium batteries are allowed in cabin baggage; spare lithium cells/Power Banks must be carried in the cabin with terminals protected.
- Medicated topical preparations and baby formulas: allowed in quantities greater than 100 ml with supporting documentation and separate presentation at security.
Packing and security tips
- Pre-measure: transfer liquids to appropriately marked 100 ml containers to avoid confiscation.
- Use leakproof caps and double-bag fragile containers; place the clear bag at the top of the carry container for quick removal.
- Check both departure and transit airport rules plus the airline’s website; some countries impose stricter limits or bans on specific aerosols and powders.
- Declare any oversized medicinal cosmetics at the security checkpoint and have prescriptions or medical letters ready.
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Which liquid and gel cosmetics fall under the 100 ml/3.4 oz rule?
Place all liquids, gels, creams, pastes, aerosols and sprays in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or smaller and keep them together inside one clear resealable plastic bag no larger than 1 litre (1 quart) for security screening.
Typical products subject to the 100 ml/3.4 oz limit
Face: liquid foundation, tinted moisturiser, BB/CC creams, liquid concealer, liquid primer, liquid highlighter. Eyes and brows: liquid eyeliner, mascara, eyebrow gel, cream/gel eyeshadow. Lips: lip gloss, liquid lipstick, lip stain, gel-format lip balm. Skin care: serums, facial oils, toners, micellar water, cleansing oils, liquid cleansers, creams and lotions. Sun care: sunscreen and after-sun lotions. Fragrance and body: perfume, body mist, aerosol sprays (note aerosols may have extra restrictions). Nails and hair: nail polish, nail polish remover, hair gel, styling mousse, leave-in treatments, liquid heat protectants.
Solids, exemptions and screening notes
Solid and powder products are generally exempt from the 100 ml rule – examples include lipstick bullets, solid deodorant sticks, pressed powder, compact foundation and dry bronzers. Medically necessary liquids and baby food often have separate allowances; have supporting documentation available and declare them at security. Airlines and national aviation authorities may impose additional limits (especially for flammable aerosols or large pressurised containers), so check carrier and airport regulations before travel.
How to pack foundation, liquid concealer and primer to pass security checks?
Decant each product into small, sturdy plastic pump or squeeze bottles and place them together inside a single clear resealable 1‑litre (quart) pouch for screening; label every container with product name and volume and keep the pouch easy to present.
Use 10–30 ml PET bottles with non‑drip pumps for thin liquid foundation and concealers; for very viscous primers use a wide‑mouth travel jar or a small silicone tub to avoid pump clogs. Transfer with a disposable pipette or a clean syringe for accuracy and minimal waste.
Prevent leaks by doing the following: wipe threads clean before closing, wrap caps in a single layer of cling film, apply a narrow strip of clear tape over the cap‑body seam, then place each bottle upright inside the pouch. Add one absorbent sheet or a folded tissue at the bottom of the pouch to contain any accidental seepage.
Reduce breakage risk: swap heavy glass bottles for plastic travel alternatives, and cushion the pouch inside a hard‑sided case or between layers of clothing in your cabin baggage. Leave a small air gap in very full containers to accommodate pressure changes during ascent and descent.
Labeling and documentation: write volume in ml on each container with permanent ink and keep original receipts or sample sachets for products with unclear markings; this speeds up secondary inspection if asked to verify contents.
Non‑liquid options: when possible choose stick or powder foundation and solid concealer sticks – these are not treated as liquids and avoid the pouch constraint. Single‑use ampoules or foil sachets for primer/foundation also bypass additional scrutiny and are ideal for short trips.
If a security officer requests inspection, present the clear pouch separately and open accessible containers if asked; avoid re‑packing items inside closed bags until screening is complete to minimize handling time.
Are mascara, lip gloss and liquid eyeliner allowed through airport security?
Yes. Mascara, lip gloss and liquid eyeliner are permitted in cabin baggage if each container is ≤ 100 ml / 3.4 oz and all liquid containers fit inside a single transparent resealable bag (maximum 1 quart / 1 litre); present that bag separately at the security checkpoint.
These three products are classified as liquids/gels; sealed tubes, vials, pens and sample ampoules count toward the liquid allowance. Solid-format alternatives such as cake mascara, pencil eyeliner or stick lip colour are exempt from the liquid limit and may remain in personal bags during screening.
Practical packing tips
Decant larger tubes into travel‑size containers clearly marked with volume. Ensure caps are secure and place the transparent bag where screening staff can access it quickly. Use single‑use wands to avoid opening sealed tubes after passing security. If a product exceeds 100 ml / 3.4 oz, place it in checked baggage or purchase a compliant size after security.
Exceptions and cross-border notes
Most countries enforce the 100 ml rule, but some airports or airlines may impose additional limits–check the departure airport’s rules before travel. Aerosol eyeliner/spray products must meet airline aerosol regulations and could require extra screening. Liquids needed for medical purposes should be declared at the checkpoint with documentation.
Aerosol sprays: hairspray, dry shampoo and setting spray
Allow aerosols aboard only when each container is 100 ml / 3.4 oz or smaller and all such containers fit inside one clear quart‑size resealable plastic bag; remove the bag and present it separately at the security checkpoint.
Containers exceeding 100 ml belong in checked baggage and are subject to airline and international dangerous‑goods limits; many carriers forbid aerosols with flammable propellants or restrict the total net quantity per passenger, so confirm the carrier’s policy before packing larger cans.
Pump‑sprays and non‑pressurised mists are treated as liquids for screening purposes and must meet the same 100 ml rule when kept in a cabin bag. Powder or solid alternatives (powder dry shampoo, stick styling products, or solid finishing balms) avoid pressurisation issues and reduce the chance of disposal at security.
Packing checklist: ensure the nozzle has its original cap, apply a small strip of tape over the actuator, double‑bag the aerosol inside the quart bag, place the quart bag near the top of your carry container for quick removal, and cushion cans between soft garments in checked cases to prevent impact damage. Label any decanted products and use purpose‑made travel atomisers for longer trips.
Expect additional inspection: aerosols may be swabbed or removed from the quart bag for testing; oversized pressurised sprays are routinely confiscated at checkpoints. If transporting larger quantities in checked baggage, store cans upright inside a hard case and secure them to prevent movement.
Short‑trip convenience: keep a small resealable pouch for approved toiletries or use a secure waist pouch for easy access to your quart bag: best waist pack inflatable pfd. For checked storage, protect pressurised containers inside a suitcase with internal straps or a packed compartment: best luggage with pack straps.
Packing solid and stick cosmetics (lipstick, cream blush, solid perfume) for cabin baggage
Place solid sticks and balms in a single clear, resealable plastic pouch; keep tubes capped, palettes closed, and soft creams inside travel-size containers of 100 ml / 3.4 oz or smaller when the product is soft or creamy.
| Product | Security classification | Packing recommendation | Practical notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lipstick (solid stick) | Solid – generally exempt from liquids rule | Keep in original tube or a hard protective case inside a clear pouch; place near top of cabin bag for inspection if requested | May soften at high temps – use insulated pouch on hot routes; tape cap if loose |
| Cream blush / cream bronzer | Cream/viscous – treated as liquid/gel by most security | Decant into containers ≤100 ml / 3.4 oz, seal lids tightly, and place in the clear resealable pouch required for liquids | Label decants; single-use sample pots reduce leakage risk; if container exceeds 100 ml, check airline policy before travel |
| Solid perfume (balm, wax) | Solid – not subject to 100 ml limit | Store in a metal or plastic tin with a secure screw lid inside the clear pouch or a small hard case | If scent has a soft, oily texture, treat as cream and follow liquids guidance |
| Stick concealers / solid highlighters | Solid – exempt | Use original packaging or a protective sleeve; group with other solids in the pouch for quick inspection | Protruding tips can break – protect with tape or a small travel cap |
If security staff ask to inspect products, remove the pouch and present contents separately; for homemade or transferred creams, label container with product name and volume. For international flights, check the departure airport and airline rules for any additional restrictions before travelling.
Documentation for Medical or Prescription Beauty Products in Cabin Baggage
Present the original prescription or a signed medical letter that exactly matches the product label and passenger full name when approaching security screening.
- Original prescription or certified copy – prescriber’s full name, contact number, prescription date, exact product name, formulation (e.g., 0.05% tretinoin cream), dosage and quantity dispensed for the trip.
- Doctor’s letter on clinic/hospital letterhead – brief statement of clinical need, duration of treatment required during travel, storage requirements (refrigeration, refrigeration times), and signature with contact details for verification.
- Pharmacy dispensing label and receipt – pharmacy name, dispensing date, patient name and quantity; retain original pharmacy packaging.
- Manufacturer’s packaging/label – keep the product in its original container showing concentration, barcode/lot number and expiry date to match prescription documentation.
- Translation – English translation of prescription/letter when documents are not in the language of the departure or arrival country; a simple certified translation or translator contact is acceptable.
- Controlled-substance paperwork – import/export permits or national authorization where required (narcotics, certain psychotropics); check destination and transit country regulations in advance.
- Device documentation for injectables or pens – device manual, medical justification for syringes/needles, and a statement on disposal method; include proof of clinical need for EpiPens or insulin pumps.
- Quantity justification for containers exceeding standard screening limits – a clinician’s note stating exact volume required for the trip (e.g., “150 ml medicated lotion required for 10 days”) to support exception requests.
How to present documents and products at screening
- Keep originals and one photocopy together with the products in an easily accessible pouch within cabin baggage.
- Declare the products proactively to security staff and hand over documentation on request; show original packaging first, then supporting paperwork.
- If screening staff request verification, provide prescriber or pharmacy contact details and the translated summary if language is an issue.
- Carry electronic backups (scans/photos) of prescriptions and letters on your phone but retain physical originals when possible.
- Contact the airline and the embassy/consulate of destination and transit countries before departure for any product listed under controlled or restricted categories; obtain written approvals when required.
FAQ:
Can I bring foundation, mascara and lipstick in my carry-on bag?
Yes. Liquid and cream cosmetics such as foundation, tinted moisturiser, liquid concealer, mascara and liquid eyeliner must follow the standard liquid limit: each container 100 ml (3.4 oz) or smaller, and all such containers placed together in a single resealable clear plastic bag for screening. Solid items like traditional lipstick, solid balm and compact powder do not count as liquids and can be carried outside that bag. Lip gloss, liquid highlighter or cream blush are treated as liquids and must go in the bag. Also note that makeup remover wipes are usually allowed, while battery-powered cosmetic tools must meet airline battery rules (spare lithium batteries normally belong in the cabin, terminals protected). If in doubt, show the items to security staff at the checkpoint and check your airline or airport security page before travel.
Are there extra restrictions for aerosols, loose powders or electronic makeup devices in hand luggage on international flights?
Aerosol cans (for hairspray, dry shampoo or aerosol deodorant) and spray perfumes are often classified with liquids and typically must meet the same size limits as other liquids. Some carriers or airports add further limits for pressurised cans, so it is wise to verify with the airline. Loose powders such as large containers of setting powder or dry pigments can sometimes trigger additional screening; for example, some security authorities ask that powders over a specific volume (often about 350 ml / 12 oz) be placed in checked baggage or be subject to extra checks at the gate. Small cosmetic powders in normal compact form usually pass without problem. For electronic cosmetic devices (heated eyelash curlers, rechargeable facial tools), follow battery rules: carry the device in cabin baggage, carry spare lithium-ion batteries in carry-on only and protect terminals with tape or original packaging. Practical tips: decant liquids into travel-size bottles that clearly show capacity, place all liquid containers together in the resealable bag for faster screening, keep any original packaging or labels if you carry larger items in checked luggage, and review the security guidance of both your departure airport and airline before flying so you avoid surprises at the checkpoint.
