In an ideal world, you’ll wake up at 5:30am (without hitting snooze), put on your activewear that you nicely laid out the night before (you know, because you’re that organised), head to your morning HIIT class (absolutely smash it), and be at your desk by 9am ready to tackle the day ahead (feeling refreshed and motivated AF, no less).
Thing is, that perfect little morning routine you’ve just conjured up in your head rarely becomes a reality. Sure, you might make it to your gym class, but the aftermath is something you just don’t want to have to deal with. Your face is bright red, your hair is all over the joint and how the f*ck do people actually look good after 45 minutes of intense cardio?
Well gal pals, we’re here to help you become one of those people. All you need is the right set of beauty prods and a little know-how.
Not only will the following gym bag essentials get you work-ready quicker than you can order your “large weak latte on almond milk with honey”, they’ll help you hide all the evidence of a sweaty gym sesh. Trust us when we say, your work wives will be none the wiser…
CliniqueFIT Post-Workout Face + Body Cleansing Swipes
First thing’s first—let’s tackle that red face of yours, shall we? For an instant refresh, reach for a cleansing wipe. Ideal for both the face and body, these cleansing wipes by CliniqueFIT are specifically designed for post-workout use. Not only do they work to remove excess oil, sweat and makeup build-up (tsk, tsk), they gently exfoliate and moisturise at the same time leaving your skin feeling soft and hydrated—all whilst preventing future breakouts.
NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser
Now for some coverage! This luxurious, tinted moisturiser by NARS will further hydrate your skin, blur the appearance of pores and even-out any discolouration or imperfections without having to apply a full face of makeup. It’s oil-free, which means no clogging of pores and application is silky smooth thanks to its lightweight formula. Simply keep it in your gym bag to enhance your post-workout glow.
Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real! Mascara
Although we’re not going for a complicated makeup look here (because, time poor—and it’s either that or coffee), a touch of mascara is all you’ll need to lift your game. This cult favourite will help create natural looking lashes with added length—AND it’s fully smudge-proof, which doesn’t really matter anyway because you’ve already made it through your gruelling workout so those tears of torture have well and truly dried up.
Lanolips 101 Ointment
Again, we’re all about no fuss, minimal effort, so this multi-purpose balm by Lanolips is perfect for completing your look. We especially love that it’s made from all-natural ingredients and provides long-lasting, nourishing moisture. Simply pucker up apply to your lips for a subtle, dewy shine.
GHD Gold Styler
For those who have a little extra time to pretty themselves up, may we suggest the GHD Gold Styler? As slick as its name suggests, it features dual-technology for premium straightening and styling PLUS an improved heat up time of only 25 seconds. Basically created for girls-on-the-go, universal voltage means that you won’t be tripping any circuits, and a protective plate guard promises safe storage for when you’re on the move. Oh and a 2.7 metre cable means that you can always reach a mirror. Now you’re talking our language.
Klorane Dry Shampoo
For everyone else, this dry shampoo is a lifesaver. A fave of Rebecca Judd, this formula is infused with nettle which naturally works to remove excess oil and extend life in between washes. Judd advises spraying the dry shampoo onto roots from a 30cm distance, and leaving for a couple of minutes before brushing through. How’s that a for a quick spritz? PSA: The new tinted version designed for brunettes will be available from April 2, 2018.
Covergirl Easy Breezy Brow Micro-Fine + Define Pencil Crayon
Let’s face it, between all the burpees, box jumps and wiping the sweat off your face, your poor little eyebrows can be left out of place (ha, didn’t mean for that to rhyme). Anyways, this handy tool enables you to have perfectly-groomed eyebrows in a matter of seconds. With a colour stain tip on one end (no sharpening required) and a built-in spooley brush on the other, this is one non-negotiable that needs to be in your gym bag at all times.
Aesop Deodorant
The perfect size for your gym bag, Aesop’s aluminum-free deodorant is made with eleven essential oils that will have you smelling super fresh. With a crisp citrus scent and a formula that dries clear, you don’t have to worry about annoying marks on your clothes, because you have more important things to think about like, um… eating.
Health Lab Probiotic Protein Balls
We think you’d agree that no one likes a hangry colleague. For a quick, delicious and healthy snack on the go, choose between a choc matcha or mixed berry probiotic ball from Health Lab. Enriched with gut-loving and complexion-boosting ingredients and packed with antioxidants, these beauty balls consist of 1 billion probiotics and will help you refuel for the work day.
