What Makeup Counts As Liquid On A Plane By TSA?

Key Takeaways

• TSA considers most makeup items in liquid, gel, or cream form to be liquids, which means they must be packed in a clear plastic bag and follow the 3-1-1 rule.
• Mascara, liquid foundation, liquid concealer, lip gloss, and gel-based lip balms are all considered liquids by TSA.
• Lipstick and solid stick lip balms are not considered liquids and can be packed in carry-ons without worrying about the 3-1-1 rule.
• TSA considers Vaseline or petroleum jelly a liquid, and larger tubs must be packed in checked luggage unless they are medically necessary and screened separately.
• Creams are generally considered liquids by TSA, so it’s best to avoid caution and pack them in a clear plastic bag.
• When packing liquid makeup, it’s important to use leak-proof containers, pack in a separate toiletry bag, opt for travel-sized products, protect delicate items, and pack in the center of your luggage.
• Always check TSA guidelines and airline policies before packing your makeup to avoid confusion or delays at security checkpoints.

Have you ever encountered a situation where you were halted at the security checkpoint due to carrying a beauty product you believed was permissible for travel? I can personally relate to those moments of unexpected surprise when a TSA agent informs me that an item I deemed solid is, in fact, considered a liquid.

So, what makeup counts as liquid on a plane by TSA?

In this article, we’ll explore the TSA guidelines for liquids and clarify what sizes of liquids are allowed on planes. We’ll also answer questions like “Is mascara considered a liquid when flying?” and “Does lipstick count as a liquid according to TSA rules?”

Plus, I’ll share tips on how to pack liquid makeup safely in your luggage, whether you’re bringing it in your carry-on bag or packing it in your checked baggage.

What Makeup Counts As Liquid On A Plane

Twitter: @AskTSA

Let me start by sharing one of the most important rules when packing makeup for a flight: the TSA 3-1-1 Liquids Rule. Any liquids, gels, and aerosols you bring on board must be placed in a clear, quart-sized bag, and each container should not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 ml). It’s also important to note that you are only allowed one bag per person, so prioritize your must-have beauty products.

So, what counts as a liquid when it comes to makeup? If your makeup has viscosity and can run, it’s considered a liquid by TSA. This includes foundation, concealer, liquid eyeliner, and lip gloss. But don’t worry; there are ways to pack these products safely and comply with TSA rules.

You can use travel-sized bottles, opt for solid makeup or non-liquid products, and ensure all containers are adequately sealed to prevent leaks during your flight.

Now, let’s dive into some specific makeup items that most people need clarification on, whether they count as liquids or not. We’ll break it down from mascara to lipstick, foundation, and even Vaseline for you in the next section.

Remember that the TSA officer has the final say in deciding whether an item is acceptable for passage through the checkpoint.

Related: Can You Bring Makeup On A Plane? TSA Rules For Cosmetics

Is Mascara Considered A Liquid When Flying?

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Washable Mascara

Carry-on: YES (liquid item)
Checked Luggage: YES

Mascara, the holy grail of makeup products, is considered a liquid by the TSA (surprise!).

We all have that one mascara we can’t live without and always have it on us. But when it comes to packing for a flight, we often need to remember to consider it a liquid or we’ll end up holding up the security line while the TSA agent digs in your bag to find it.

Don’t be that person. Pack your mascara tube in a clear, quart-sized bag for TSA inspection. If you forget to do so and your liquids allowance is already to the limit, you may have to choose to leave some of your other precious liquid items behind.

Does Lipstick Count As A Liquid By TSA?

TSA considers lipstick a solid, so it doesn’t count as a liquid when flying.

This means you can pack your favorite lipsticks in your carry-on without worrying. However, keeping lipsticks in their original packaging or a tiny plastic bag is still recommended to avoid breaking any airline rules.

Is Foundation A Liquid By TSA?

Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Oil-Free Foundation Makeup (1 fl oz)

Carry-on: YES (liquid item)
Checked Luggage: YES

Foundation is considered a liquid by TSA.

It has a creamy texture that could easily spill or leak. When packing your carry-on, throw it in a clear plastic bag with your other liquid makeup items. I always pack my foundation in a travel-sized container so it’s easier to pack and doesn’t take up too much space.

Trust me, you don’t want to be caught off-guard by the TSA and have to throw away your favorite foundation.

Is Concealer A Liquid By TSA?

Concealer is one of those makeup items we forget to consider when packing for a trip, but did you know it’s considered a liquid by TSA?

I found out the hard way when I had to toss out a full-sized tube of concealer during a security check. Since then, I’ve packed my concealers in my liquids bag to avoid unnecessary risk. The good news is that most concealers are small enough to fit in the bag without taking up too much space. Just like with mascara, it’s easy to overlook concealer when packing for a trip, so always double-check and ensure it’s in your clear bag.

Is Vaseline A Liquid By TSA?

Vaseline Blue Seal Series (Variety 4 Pack) Travel Size 1.7oz

Carry-on: YES (liquid item)
Checked Luggage: YES

Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, is considered a liquid by TSA.

It may seem odd to think of this gooey, semi-solid substance as a liquid, but according to TSA rules, it falls under the category of liquids or gels. If you plan to bring it with you on a flight, ensure it’s in a travel-sized container with 3.4 oz or less. Larger tubs of Vaseline must be packed in checked luggage.

Vaseline is a versatile product used for multiple purposes during travel. It can help prevent dry skin, soothe blisters during long flights, and even be a makeup remover. So, if you’re planning to travel and want to bring Vaseline, remember to pack it following TSA rules and ensure you’re prepared for any additional screening that may be required.

Is Lip Gloss A Liquid By TSA?

Your favorite lip gloss is considered a liquid by the TSA.

This means that it needs to be packed in a clear bag for inspection at security. I learned this when I had to part with my favorite lip gloss at the airport because I forgot to pack it in my clear bag. Trust me; seeing your favorite lip gloss being tossed away is not a good feeling!

So, if you’re like me and can’t leave the house without your lip gloss, pack it in your clear liquids bag. My tip is to empty your handbag and start sorting your makeup between solids and liquids before your trip. This way, you won’t have to frantically search for lip gloss or other liquids at the airport.

Is Lip Balm A Liquid By TSA?

Lip balm is a must-have item for me when flying, and I always wonder if it counts as a liquid by TSA. Well, it depends on the type of lip balm you’re bringing.

Solid stick lip balms like my go to brand Burt’s Bees are not considered liquids and can be packed in your carry-on without restrictions. However, gel-based lip balms such as Vaseline, Carmex, and Blistex are classified as liquids and must be placed in your clear quart-sized bag for TSA inspection.

If you’re like me and prefer to have lip balm readily available during the flight, it’s always a good idea to bring a solid stick lip balm instead of a gel-based one. This way, you won’t have to fight over space in your quart-sized bag, which can be limited to all our necessary liquids.

Do Creams Count As Liquids By TSA

Generally, most creams are considered liquid, meaning they must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

I know what you’re thinking: “But it’s a cream, not a liquid!” Trust me; I’ve been there. But if it’s a type of cream, you’re better off just considering it a liquid and packing it accordingly. You don’t want to risk getting into an argument with a TSA agent over the definition of cream versus liquid. It’s not worth the hassle.

If you need to bring a cream larger than 3.4 ounces, don’t panic. You have a few options. You can pack it in your checked luggage or use reusable travel containers to bring only what you need for the trip. And remember, if you need to figure out whether a cream counts as a liquid, it’s always better to err on caution and pack it in your quart-sized clear bag.

How To Pack Liquid Makeup Safely In Your Luggage

When it comes to packing my liquid makeup for travel, I always make sure to follow some essential tips to avoid any unwanted spills or messes.

Use leak-proof containers: One of the most important things to remember when packing liquid makeup is to use containers that won’t leak during travel. Double-check that the lids are tightly closed, and consider using a sealable plastic bag for an extra layer of protection.

TSA Approved Clear Travel Toiletry Bag

• TSA-approved quart-sized bag
• Lightweight, durable
• Heavy duty zippers

Pack in a separate toiletry bag: Keep your liquid makeup separate from other toiletries in a dedicated bag. This will make it easier to find and minimize the risk of contamination or spillage.

Opt for travel-sized products: To avoid carrying heavy and bulky bottles, choose travel-sized makeup products that fit TSA’s 3-1-1 rule.

Protect delicate items: If you have fragile liquid makeup items such as glass bottles, wrap them in a soft cloth or socks to prevent them from breaking or cracking during transit.

Pack in the center of your luggage: Place your liquid makeup bag in the center, surrounded by clothes or soft items to cushion it. This will prevent any damage from impact or shifting during transit.

Related: How To Pack Makeup For A Flight (Carry-on & Checked Luggage)

Originally Posted on: What Makeup Counts As Liquid On A Plane By TSA?