You’ve planned your trip down to the last detail – flight, hotel, and of course, your suitcase. But have you asked yourself: Can I take makeup in hand luggage? When it comes to beauty products, there are strict rules you should know to get through airport security stress-free. Don’t worry – your favorite essentials can still come with you! In our wide range of travel-size products, you’ll find everything you need for your on-the-go beauty routine – compact, practical, and airplane-approved.
The Rules for Makeup and Cosmetics in Hand Luggage
Since November 6, 2006, an EU-wide regulation also applies in Switzerland, restricting liquids in hand luggage. The rule was introduced after a foiled attempt to use liquid explosives. Since then, all liquids must be placed in a visible 1-liter bag for security checks.
According to the European Union and the Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation, the following rules apply to liquids in hand luggage:
- Liquids, aerosols, and gels may only be carried in individual containers of max. 100 ml. For aerosols, the valve must be secured – for example, with a protective cap – to prevent accidental release.
- All containers (tubes, bottles, jars) must fit loosely into one transparent, resealable plastic bag of no more than 1 liter (e.g., a ziplock bag).
- Each passenger is allowed only one bag. This also applies to infants and babies.
Important: This regulation is based on EU and Swiss law. In countries outside the EU, different rules may apply. Always check the regulations of your destination or transit country before departure.
What Counts as a Liquid in Hand Luggage?
When we talk about liquids in hand luggage, we don’t just mean water or shampoo. The regulation covers “liquids, gels, and aerosols” – which includes nearly anything liquid, creamy, or gel-like. For example: lotions, toothpaste, hair gel, perfume, shaving foam, or creams. In short: anything that drips, sprays, or smears.
Not sure whether a product is allowed? The final decision is always up to airport security. To be on the safe side, choose the travel-size version!
Travel-Size Beauty Must-Haves for Your Hand Luggage
Skin Care Essentials on the Go
Whether it’s a city break, beach holiday, or business trip – skin care is worth packing smartly. Must-haves in travel size include a light face cream and a nourishing body lotion. A mini deodorant keeps you fresh, and a compact shower gel shouldn’t be missing. Don’t forget sunscreen with the right SPF.
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Tip – Solid Beauty Products
That tiny 1-liter plastic bag fills up faster than you think. Luckily, there’s now a wide range of solid cosmetics that don’t count as liquids. Solid shampoo, bar soap, deodorant sticks, or toothpaste tabs save space, last longer, and are eco-friendly.
Super practical for travel: Spongellé beauty sponges. They combine cleansing, exfoliation, massage, and care. The sponge already contains infused soap – just wet it briefly, and it lathers into a silky foam. Depending on the type, it can be used 5 to 14 times – perfect for both weekend getaways and longer trips.
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Final Price CHF 21.60 Regular Price CHF 24.0010 %50 ml -
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Final Price CHF 16.9585 g -
Best Hair Care in Travel Size
Many popular brands now offer shampoos, conditioners, masks, and serums in travel sizes that comply with security regulations. Hair styling lovers won’t miss out either – hairspray, mousse, and even heat protectants are available in handy formats.
Dry shampoo minis are especially practical – refreshing your hair in seconds when there’s no time to wash it.
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Final Price CHF 7.00 Regular Price CHF 13.0046 %75 ml -
Final Price CHF 26.25 Regular Price CHF 35.0025 %30 ml -
Final Price CHF 12.85 Regular Price CHF 16.0520 %50 ml -
Final Price CHF 24.10 Regular Price CHF 30.1020 %25 ml -
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Final Price CHF 5.25 Regular Price CHF 6.5520 %50 ml -
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Final Price CHF 6.85 Regular Price CHF 8.5520 %50 ml
Compact Oral Care Products
Most toothpaste tubes come in 100 ml or smaller, so they’re safe for your hand luggage bag. Want to pack smarter? Try solid alternatives like toothpaste or mouthwash tabs from brands such as Kiyo. Simply chew, brush or rinse with water – done!
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Final Price CHF 2.55 -
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Final Price CHF 7.9575 ml -
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Your Favorite Perfume On the Go
Many fragrance houses offer their classics in 30 ml bottles – perfect for hand luggage and under the 100 ml limit. Even more practical: a travel atomizer, which you can refill from your large perfume bottle.
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Final Price CHF 67.30 Regular Price CHF 84.1020 %30 ml -
Final Price CHF 73.45 Regular Price CHF 91.8020 %30 ml -
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Final Price CHF 61.2030 ml -
Final Price CHF 59.20 Regular Price CHF 74.0020 %20 ml -
Final Price CHF 63.7530 ml -
Refillable Travel Containers – Sustainable Packing
Instead of constantly buying minis, simply refill your favorite products into small reusable travel bottles. From shampoo to face cream, you’ll always be perfectly equipped.
Travel Sets – All-in-One Convenience
Many brands make it easy with ready-made travel care kits tailored for hand luggage. Whether it’s sunscreen, body lotion, or toothpaste – everything you need is neatly packed together.
How to Pass Security Checks with Your Makeup Smoothly
Getting through airport security doesn’t have to be stressful. Just remember: all liquids must fit into a 1-liter bag, and each container must be 100 ml or less. Travel-size products make this much easier, saving both space and hassle. Running out of space in your bag? Switch to solid products or refill smaller bottles. With a little smart packing, everything fits, and you’ll breeze through security. Ready for your next trip?
