Mascara a must for female jet setters, but don't forget the sun tan lotion

Ten essential beauty holiday items which no British woman will ever leave behind have been revealed for the very first time by Debenhams.

And amazingly, waterproof mascara is the number one choice – regarded as being even more important than sun tan lotion, says high street store Debenhams. Next comes tinted moisturiser, followed by bronzer, and lip gloss.

Sun tan lotion finally makes it onto the list at a lowly number five - a long way down the “holiday must have” list.

Said Debenhams Beauty Director Sara Stern: “Every British woman knows mascara running down their face will leave them looking like Marilyn Manson rather than Marilyn Monroe.

“We understand that customers want to look good regardless of the weather but we really want to promote the importance of sun tan lotion.”

To encourage shoppers to invest in a sun protection Debenhams is selling sun care at half the price until stocks run out. All other lotions have been included in the duty free sale with the hope that the reduction will push customers to look after their skin in the sun.

Women’s impractical approach to holiday beauty emerged after Debenhams asked 2,000 female holiday makers which items they couldn’t do without.

“Contrary to belief, the majority of British women don’t want to get all dolled up to go and sit poolside - unlike some of the TOWIE ladies. Instead, they are opting for a more natural make up approach but seem to be forgetting one incredible important basic…lotion.
 
“Throughout our offer we are hoping to put sun care in the sunny spotlight and remind Brits on the importance of apply lotion.” Continued Stern.

Beauty holiday must haves - Percentage of the vote

Waterproof mascara 40%
Tinted moisturiser 14%
Bronzer 11%
Lip gloss 10%
Sun tan lotion 8%
Eyeliner 6%
Exfoliator/scrub 5%
Eye shadow 3%
Lip stick 2%
Concealer 1%
 
“If you’re lucky enough to jet away during the school holidays to catch some rays and achieve beautiful sun kissed skin then you only need a few key beauty tools to achieve a flawless bronzed goddess look to make a stylish landing,” Stern continued.

Debenhams is currently offering duty free prices on hundreds of top name cosmetics, skincare and fragrances, customers who aren’t able to jet away can still benefit from top beauty brands at airport prices.