Destination weddings are a popular choice for couples who want to combine their special day with a dream vacation. And what better place to celebrate love and romance than in the beautiful Caribbean? I’m sure that’s what some friends were thinking when they planned their nuptials to take place in Saint Lucia. However, with the heat, humidity, and beachfront environment, a Caribbean destination wedding requires careful planning when it comes to beauty products. These are the must-have beauty products I brought with me for their Caribbean destination wedding. From SPF and minimal makeup options to hydrating skincare, I’ve got you covered so that you can look and feel your best on the big day – no matter your role in the event. Whether you’re the bride, groom, member of the wedding party, or attending as a guest, these products will ensure that you’re ready to take on the tropical climate and make unforgettable memories. So, let’s dive in!
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Skincare for a Destination Wedding in the Caribbean
Hyaluronic Acid Serum
GLOSSIER Super Bounce
A hyaluronic acid serum is beneficial on a Caribbean vacation because it provides lightweight hydration, and improves skin texture. Of course, it won’t fix all of this overnight, but I’ve been religiously using hyaluronic acid for well over two years. I never travel without it no matter where I’m headed. I use it after my toner/essence and before my moisturizer.
SHOP AT GLOSSIER
Sunscreen
BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Yes, melanated people need sunscreen. Sunscreen or SPF helps to block these UV rays and reduce your risk of sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer. It’s crucial to apply sunscreen or SPF generously and frequently throughout the day, especially during peak hours when the sun is strongest. Remember to apply it to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Additionally, packing sunscreen or SPF can help to prevent premature aging of your skin caused by sun damage, such as wrinkles, dark spots, and sagging skin. So, whether you’re lounging on the beach, hiking in the mountains, or exploring the local markets, don’t forget to pack sunscreen or SPF to keep your skin healthy and protected. This one doesn’t make you look ashy or purple.
SPF for Face
SUPERGOOP! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
I’ve been using this sunscreen for half a decade. it’s just good. Facial skin is delicate and sensitive, so a specific facial sunscreen is helpful. Facial sunscreens are non-comedogenic, lightweight, and fragrance-free. They offer broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, prevent aging, and keep your skin healthy. Again, apply generously and frequently for the best results.
SPF Lip Balm
SUPERGOOP! Lipscreen Sheer SPF 30
Putting SPF on your lips is essential because your lips are also vulnerable to the sun’s harmful UV rays, just like the rest of your skin. Sunburned lips can be painful and uncomfortable, and repeated sun exposure can cause long-term damage to your lips, including dryness, cracking, and even skin cancer. I like this one, but I also like this one from Cay Skin.
Packable Wide-Brimmed Hat
FREE PEOPLE Shady Character Packable Wide Brimmed Hat
Bringing a packable wide-brimmed hat is a wise choice. Not only does it make a stylish accessory to complete your vacation outfits, but it also provides essential sun protection. Wearing a hat with a wide brim can help to shade your face, neck, and shoulders from the sun’s rays, reducing your risk of sunburn and skin damage. Additionally, a packable wide-brimmed hat is lightweight and easy to fit in your luggage or beach bag, making it a practical and convenient item to bring along on your trip.
I wish I would have brought this one. I’m going to make sure I grab one before my next beach or summer vacation.
Large Sunglasses
QUAY Australia Ever After
What is a Caribbean vacation without sunglasses? They can be an excellent tool for reducing wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes, as they help to shield the skin from UV rays that can cause premature aging. In other words, you should be wearing them when it’s sunny no matter where you are.
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Makeup for a Caribbean Destination Wedding
Makeup Primer
TATCHA The Liquid Silk Canvas
I love this primer and you can pry it from my cold, dead hands. It helps mattify my skin before my foundation and helps reduce any excess shine caused by humidity and creates a long-lasting base for your makeup. I also really like the way it smells. It’s light but pleasant.
Concealer
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
I have yet to find a concealer that performs as well as this one. I rarely wore a full-face of makeup while I was there. Just covered the troublesome spots with this and kept it pushing.
Foundation
ARMANI BEAUTY Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Flawless Oil-Free Foundation
I have never gotten as many compliments on my “skin” as I do when I wear this foundation. It really looks like your skin but better and I have oily skin. A luminous foundation that looks great on oily skin! Take my money.
Eye Shadow Palette
TOO FACED Born This Way The Natural Nudes Eyeshadow Palette
With an eyeshadow palette, you can create a variety of different looks that are suitable for different events, whether it’s a casual beachside gathering or a formal evening reception. This one is perfect for vacation because it has mattes and shimmers.
Powder Blush Palette
e.l.f COSMETICS Powder Blush Palette
The heat and humidity can cause your skin to become oily or sweaty, which can make your blush fade or smear. A powder blush set can help to combat this issue by providing a long-lasting, matte finish that won’t budge. I brought this old faithful blush set so I had options to choose from.
Neutral or Nude Pink Lipstick
CHARLOTTE TILBURY Pillow Talk Lipkit
This combo is perfect for any outfit. Seriously. It is the perfect nude-pink-brown lip.
Waterproof Mascara
ERE PEREZ Avocado Waterproof Mascara
I made the mistake of not bringing waterproof mascara. There were days when I wanted to swipe my regular mascara on but didn’t want to look like Alice Cooper after an hour or so. My eyelashes were naked most of the trip. Don’t be like me. Be better.
Finishing Powder
LAURA MERCIER Ultra-Blur Talc-Free Translucent Loose Setting Powder
Laura Mercier’s setting powder has been a ride-or-die for me for years. It just works and I’m not inclined to shake things up over there just yet. You’ll want this to keep shininess at bay for as long as possible.
Powder Puff
The pointed tip on these is perfect for reaching the inner corner of my eyes. It sets the powder very evenly and has a natural finish. I like this better than a powder brush right now and you can’t beat the price.
