Popular Skincare Items TSA Will Confiscate If You Try to Carry Them On

To all skincare lovers, this post is specifically for you. If you’ve a flight coming up soon, then I know you’re yearning to get into that flight already, but before you zip up your Skincare carry-on, ask yourself ‘Are all these allowed in my flight?’

Yes, I know you want to have a perfectly curated collection of creams, serums, balms and maybe even more. However, you might want to double-check what’s actually allowed past airport security.

Note This: The TSA enforces strict rules about trendy skincare products which means your favorite moisturizer could face removal from your carry-on. The 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels remains familiar but the definition of what constitutes a liquid versus other substances remains unclear when examining contemporary beauty products.

Your beloved eye cream along with skin mist and cleansing balm may face TSA scrutiny. And so, to help you prep according we will explain what is and isn’t allowed by TSA.

What Trendy Skin-Care Products Might Get Flagged by the TSA?

Security checkpoints at airports can swiftly destroy your travel glamour when TSA agents remove your essential skincare products from your possession. Therefore, the key to avoiding TSA trouble with your beauty products starts with knowing which trendy items they will accept.

Keep in mind that most skincare basics can move through security checkpoints without problems, so need to worry too much, since only a few specific items will trigger the same response as prohibited liquids or alcohol.

 The TSA follows a strict 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons. This means they require all liquids and gels in carry-on bags to fit into a clear zip-top bag that holds no more than one quart and contains items limited to 3.4 ounces (100 mL) each.

The TSA rule applies regardless of how much liquid remains in your large bottle. Any container exceeding 3.4 ounces will be removed from security checks. Now, what products are actually easy to be flagged By TSA? -Well, let’s have a look:

Skin-Care Products That Could Get Flagged by the TSA:

• Balms and jellies: Includes cleansing balms and skin jellies. If they can be easily spread or rubbed into the skin, they’re considered liquids.
• Gels: Think aloe vera gels, hydrating gels, and other gel-based treatments.
• Lotions: Any type of moisturizer or body lotion falls under the liquid rule.
• Sprays: Face mists, setting sprays, and toners in spray form—even if barely used.
• Serums: Whether it’s vitamin C, retinol, or peptide serums, these are all considered liquids.
• Full-size bottles—even if not full: If the container is larger than 3.4 ounces, it will be flagged, even if it holds only a small amount of product.

What Trendy Skin-Care Products Does the TSA Actually Allow?

The good news is not every skincare product is subject to the TSA’s dreaded 3-1-1 liquid rule.

While there are TSA limitations you can still bring gels, creams, and sprays only under strict restrictions but other items exceeding 3.4 ounces without any limitations. The key?

You should use products that do not fall under the categories of liquids or gels. Solid or dry items can enter your carry-on bag without needing plastic bags or any security questions.

TSA-Friendly Skin-Care Products That Don’t Break the Rules:

• Powdered products: The innovative travel-friendly products include powdered cleansers and powdered sunscreens. Each passenger can easily transport 12 ounces of liquid items through security checkpoints in their carry-on bags.
• Solid skin-care sticks: Think balm sticks, facial oils in solid form, and more. If it comes in a stick, it’s considered a solid and won’t raise any TSA red flags.
• Makeup wipes and baby wipes: Despite their moisture content, wipes are not considered liquids. Pack them freely for quick clean-ups and in-flight refreshes.
• Sheet masks: These skin-loving essentials are a jetsetter’s best friend. TSA gives them the green light, so feel free to pamper yourself at 30,000 feet.

Now that you know, be sure to keep this tip under consideration when prepping for your next flight, save space (and stress) by prioritizing these TSA-safe beauty essentials.