If it’s time for you to renew your passport before your next big holiday, then you have to be careful. It can be tempting to layer on the makeup for your photo, as you’ll have it for the next ten years. But, experts are warning that if you follow one social media trend, you risk being sent away at the airport gate.
Rhysa Phommachanh, hair and skincare expert at Landys Chemist, said: “While a flattering passport photo can be a great confidence booster, it’s important to remember that your passport photo is supposed to truly represent you.
Travellers may already look different before boarding a plane (due to clothing and makeup choices), so it is important to ensure that you are not skewing your likeness further.”
The ‘passport makeup’ trend on TikTok promises a stunning passport photo – but also involves some pretty involved makeup.
Rhysa said: “There are a lot of steps in the viral tutorial, and the creator of the trend has also admitted that certain elements are intentionally over the top, specifically contour, concealer and overlined lips. With the recent adoption of ePassport gates, an exaggerated profile photo can cause issues at security.”
That’s not to say you have to be completely barefaced for your passport picture – light makeup is completely fine.
Rhysa said; “Subtle makeup is a great compromise – before taking your passport photo, try a light foundation or BB cream to even out your complexion and a light dab of concealer to tackle any under-eye bags or blemishes. Defining your brows can help to frame your face, along with some neutral eyeshadow and a light coat of mascara.”
If you want your skin to stay fresh during your flight, make sure you moisturise before you get on the plane, as the dry air inside can make your skin look and feel a little worse for wear.
Physical dehydration can also cause puffiness, so make sure to drink plenty of water during your flight and ensure you move around regularly to boost circulation and prevent fluid buildup.
