8 Tips to get your skin care products past TSA

What’s okay to take on board?

I flew out to San Diego this week, but had to do my homework first.

It was a short flight, on and off the plane within 2 hours. But I didn’t want to check in my bags for the 5 days I’d be in Southern California.

I also didn’t want my Lavender Roll-on, my shampoo, toothpaste or my Simply Shea Facial confiscated before boarding. Is your skin care TSA-proof? Read on…

8 tips to get your skin care through TSA

1. Is your shampoo, foundation and perfume in containers that each weigh less than 3.4 ounces? Read the rules below.
2. Can all of your above liquid products combined (or any liquid skin care product) fit inside a quart size bag? If not, use small replacement containers to get them in the bag.
3. Can you swap out any liquid products for solid products? (Beesilk lotion, Bug Block, and shampoo bars are some suggested alternatives).
4. Pack a tooth powder instead of a toothpaste.
5. Take samples rather than full containers. (Need a Bug Block or soap sample? Ask us for one in your next order.)
6. Liquid, gel and aerosol items all must abide by the 3.4 oz rule, so it’s best to pack those separately in the quart size zipped bag. You only get to take one bag of those products.
7. Make a solid perfume to replace your liquid one.
8. Facial creams are also monitored. Simply Shea is technically more of an emollient than a cream, and it comes in a 2 oz container, so you should be fine. If you have a space concern, transfer some into a smaller container.

How about these?

• Liquid medication: medications in liquid form exceeding the 3.4 ounce limitation are allowed in carry on bags. (source)
• Tweezers are allowed (source)
• Hair gels in more solid form, and butters, could be iffy. Honestly, I’ll bet it could depend on the room temperature and if the product is soft or solid.
• A jar of live bees (for real!). TSA doesn’t make that decision… it’s up to the individual airline.