By Melanie K. Nelson
Between going to work, driving the carpool, and running errands, Moms spend a lot of time in their cars! Let’s be real, it can be hard for the busy mom to stay looking (and feeling) her best. The secret to looking great is all in a well-stocked glove box! Keeping a few necessities in the car will help keep you looking great even on those hectic days!
Here are my essentials:
- Blotting papers
Oil absorbing papers are great to have on hand for those moments when you look in the mirror and see a little too much shine! I love Clean and Clear’s Oil Blotting Sheets because they are super portable and affordable. If you are feeling like a DIY, I have a friend who swears by regular white tissue paper that she cut into squares and keeps in a business card holder.
- Healthy Snack
We have all had that moment where you realize that between the PTA meeting, soccer practice and grocery shopping, you haven’t eaten and have no time for a meal. Reluctantly, you turn to the nearest fast food joint to choke down something that probably shouldn’t ever be able to be called food. This scenario is easily avoided by stashing a baggie of almonds or a few Cliff Bars in the glove box. You will have higher energy, save money and your body will thank you!
- Cotton Swabs
Half way through the day, especially when it’s hot out, your eye make up is probably melting half way down your face. Warning: the raccoon-eyed look does not work for anyone! Next time your make up is making you resemble an angst-y teen just reach for a cotton swab, moisten it slightly, and run it gently under your eyes just beneath your lower lash lines. Instantly you will look fresher and more put together!
- Essential Oils
I always keep one energizing oil and one calming in my car at all times, that way I have boost when I need one and something to clam me on those crazy days! For my pick-me-up I like peppermint, lemon, grapefruit or sweet basil. For relaxing oils, chamomile, jasmine and lavender are a few of my favorites. How do you use them? I like to dab a drop on the inside of each wrist and maybe even a drop right under my nose for a stronger effect.
- Dry Shampoo
When your hair falls flat simply flip it over, spry with dry shampoo and shake it out! The dry shampoo will not only absorb any grease that may have accumulated during your hours in the car, but it will also give you ‘do new life and volume. I do recommend stepping outside your car before you spray so that you don’t have to breath it!
- Tinted Lip Balm
There is no better way to brighten up a tired look than with a tinted lip! While lipstick is classic, I find it to be too high maintenance for my busy life so I stick with tinted lip balms. Moisturizing, subtle yet noticeable, and easy to apply, what more could you ask for? My absolute favorite set is from Fresh called Sugar Lip Treatment. I know that these are a little pricy, but the color is great and they leave you with ultra-soft lips, they are so worth it!
One final piece of advice is that if it is as hot where you are as it is where I am, you might want to bring anything that may melt (ex. lip balm) inside at the end of the day to prevent a mess. So, load up your glove box with your necessities, relax, and enjoy driving pretty!
