Handbag helpmates

BY MINNAL KHONA

Every woman’s handbag is a treasure trove of deeply personal stuff. But to be prepared at any time to meet the man of your dreams, land that dream job, or just look your best at short notice, there are a few things a woman should never do without. And carrying small, pocket-sized versions of these accessories or cosmetics will come to your rescue not just any time, but all the time.

While most of us do carry the odd lipstick in our bags, it is better to get organized and have a small pouch to accommodate several little things so you can find them easily inside your bag.

Here’s what you need, but not necessarily in order of importance.

Lip Balm

Be it Sydney’s harsh winters or just a long hot day, a lip balm is a must-have in a bag as the weather and sometimes our diet, could make our lips go dry and chapped. How often does one remember to refresh one’s lipstick after a meal? Nine out of ten times we do, right? So why forget to moisturize this very important feature? A good lip balm with the right ingredients can keep your lips looking good even if you don’t have lipstick on. Choose a fruit flavoured one, a coloured one that doubles up as a gloss or even one that has sunblock in it. Just never go without one.

Moisturiser

Yes, you would mostly moisturize your face before leaving in the morning, but it always helps to carry some along. Especially if you have a party to go to after work. A wash with a gentle cleanser and a dab of moisturiser before refreshing your makeup will make your skin look fresh. What’s more, it keeps the skin from going dry which prevents early signs of ageing like crow’s feet and wrinkles.

Foundation

A foundation works as a good barrier against dust and pollution. What’s more, various brands come in really handy-sized packs these days. Some even have moisturising abilities. Or simply opt for the compact kind, which doubles up as a concealer, foundation and powder all in one. I personally prefer this kind as it saves you carrying a few extra cosmetics. Just one thing – always choose a shade closest to your skin tone and not one that is a few shades lighter in the hope that it will make you look fairer. It won’t, and if you are a part of a photo shoot, the results would be disastrous.

Soap free cleanser

Sitting in air conditioned offices or wearing makeup to work and after can impact the skin due to all the chemicals used, in addition to the drying effects of the AC. So always carry a soap free cleanser to wash your face. This is important especially on days when you are planning to go out after work or have a job where your makeup needs to be refreshed often. A gentle hand sanitizer to keep away the germs, used before you eat is also important to carry along.

A clean comb

Having a neat and well-groomed appearance at all times can even help score over good looks at times. And if you don’t tie up your hair while at work or college, carry a comb or brush in your bag. You can comb your hair more frequently, say when you visit the washroom, and keep knots at bay. Also, frequent combing keeps the blood circulation in the scalp going, thereby providing nutrients to the scalp that will help hair to stay healthy.

Deodorant

Again, a must have for anyone who cares about their personal hygiene. Body odour can put off the most ardent of suitors and leaves you feeling very icky too. So always carry a good, effective deodorant or anti-perspirant. Roll it on sweaty parts or spray it on before stepping out and you will always smell fresh. A word of caution: avoid the ones with very strong fragrances – the muted, fresh smelling ones are the best.

Lipstick

Like I mentioned earlier, most of us do carry one in our bags. It is best to carry a neutral shade of brown or nude that would go with most outfits in case you have forgotten to carry one that matches your outfit. A lip gloss to add that extra sheen is also necessary to complete your make up.

Mascara

Most women wouldn’t think of carrying this cosmetic, but if you are going out or just want your eyes to look fresh after a long day in front of the computer, carry a tiny version of the regular brand you use. Mascara automatically widens the eyes and gives them a fresh look.

Eye liner

An eye pencil would do just as well and is probably less messier than the liquid liners. Even if you haven’t applied any and have to suddenly look your best, a few quick strokes and you’re looking good.

Sunscreen

The thing with sunscreens is that they need to be refreshed every few hours. If your lifestyle or job is one where you are in and out of the office or home often during the day, it makes sense to carry a tube of sunscreen. Just remember to apply it 20 minutes before stepping out for best results. You can’t afford to not carry this important cosmetic. If you feel you’re carrying one too many cosmetics in your bag, pick a brand that is a sunscreen that moisturizes, or a moisturiser which has an SPF of 15 or 30.

Other important things that should go in the little pouch could be a hair clip, sanitary towel, some wet wipes and a little mirror. Make these items a must have in your bag, and you will never look anything but your best.

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