Makeup is a staple in many women’s daily routines, and it’s something you might want to take along for any trip or adventure. However, packing makeup for air travel can be tricky since there are rules about what you can bring on a plane.
If you’re wondering whether you can bring gel eyeliner on a plane, the answer is yes, as long as it’s in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 ml). Anything larger should go in your checked luggage, carefully packed to prevent spills.
Does Gel Eyeliner Count as a Liquid when Flying?
Yes, gel eyeliner is considered a liquid according to TSA guidelines. TSA regulations categorize liquids, aerosols, pastes, creams, and gels as substances that can flow freely. This means beauty products like nail polish, perfume, moisturizers, eyeliners, foundation, and mascara all count as liquids and are subject to size restrictions in your carry-on bag.
Here are the main rules:
– Containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller.
– Only one clear, zip-lock bag with a total volume of up to 1 quart (approximately 1 liter) is allowed for all your liquid items.
– Anything larger should be packed in your checked luggage.
What Makeup Items Are Not Allowed on a Plane?
Most liquid makeup items are restricted unless they follow the size guidelines. Here’s what to know:
1. Face Primer: This product, essential for keeping makeup fresh, must be 100 ml or less to be allowed in your carry-on.
2. Foundation: Like face primer, foundation is considered a liquid. If it’s over 100 ml, pack it in your checked luggage.
3. Concealer: This vital makeup tool is restricted by size. Over 100 ml should go in your checked luggage to avoid hassle at security.
4. Mascara: Known for enhancing eye looks, mascara must comply with TSA size rules. If it’s over 100 ml, it should not be in your carry-on.
5. Eyeliner: Pencil eyeliner is recommended for air travel because it’s solid, unlike gel or liquid types that need to meet the 100 ml limit.
Can I Put Gel in My Carry-On?
Yes, you can bring gel in your carry-on if it meets the size limit of 3.4 ounces (100 ml). This applies to all liquid or gel products. Make sure the container itself doesn’t exceed this size, even if it’s not full, and transfer the product to a smaller container if necessary.
How to Pack Liquid Makeup Items in Your Carry-On Bag:
1. Decide which liquid makeup items to bring: Make sure each item is 100 ml or less and put them all in a clear, 1-quart (1 liter) zip-lock bag.
2. Pack larger makeup items in checked luggage: Sort and check the sizes of your liquid makeup containers. Anything over 100 ml should go in your checked bag.
3. Use a transparent bag for carry-on items: Put all liquid items in one clear, sealable bag. Each person is allowed only one such bag in their carry-on.
4. Prevent spills and leaks: Consider using containers with tight seals or layer additional plastic wraps to avoid messes. Pack each container in separate plastic bags for extra protection.
5. Minimize the number of items: Bring only what you need and look for products that can serve multiple purposes to reduce the number of liquids.
6. Keep your carry-on small: Use smaller bags or pouches to organize your makeup and skincare items. This will help your belongings stay neat and easy to access.
In conclusion, while it’s convenient to have access to your makeup during flights, not complying with TSA regulations can cause delays or confiscations at security checkpoints. Make sure your gel eyeliner and other liquid makeup items like foundation, concealer, lip gloss, face primer, and mascara are all in containers of 100 ml or less to ensure a smooth experience.
