Prom season is fast approaching, and that means your prep process probably already started, like, weeks ago. From the perfect dress to the shoes, clutch, makeup, hair, accessories, transportation, after party dress, and social coordinating, the prom to-do list can be more than a little overwhelming. But taking it one step at a time and knowing that you're on top of all the necessities makes for a stress-free night that's more about fun than formalities. Knowing that you're prepared for any and all prom night road bumps takes a huge weight off your shoulders, and this is where prom-ready mini beauty products come in.
Chances are you're bringing a clutch stocked with absolute essentials and a larger bag with after party gear that you'll store in the car or limo during the main event. No matter which items you prioritize for which bag, space is likely limited and you don't want to be weighed down by full-sized products. Lucky for you, just about everything you'd ever need is now available in mini proportions. From hair and makeup touch-ups to wardrobe malfunctions and everything in between, it's easier than you think to come armed for all worst-case scenarios or minor hiccups.
These 13 items are not only cute and tiny, but will have you totally covered — no matter what the night brings.
1. Mini Liner & Mascara
Benefit They're Real Tease: Mascara And Mini Liner, $22, Benefit Cosmetics
I hate to break it to you, but prom (and the end of senior year in general) can bring out the waterworks. I'm not saying you will cry, but it's a definite possibility. Dancing for hours can also make you a little sweaty, and a long night almost always requires some minor touch-ups. These mini versions of a cult favorite eyeliner and mascara will take up hardly any space, and you'll be able to touch up your eyes before after prom if you need to.
2. Mini Fragrance Rollerball
Again, lots of dancing and crowded limos in late spring/ early summer means your perfectly polished look might get a little melty. Having your favorite fragrance on hand to freshen up is never a bad idea. Plus, you can get a mini rollerball of just about any fragrance these days. They're much cheaper than the full-size guys, not as fragile, and can slip into just about any bag.
3. Mini Instant Refresh
Evian Mineral Water Spray Duo To Go, $15, Amazon
I know that Evian water in a mister that you pay real money for probably seems silly, but trust me. These little guys are life changing. Keep one of these in your limo bag and enjoy an instant cool down post-dance.
4. Mini Touch-Up Gloss
Sephora Collection Glossy Gloss To Go, $7, Sephora
Your regular lip gloss or lipstick is probably not so massive that your clutch can't handle it, but these are so cute and mini! It is a fact of life that you can never have too many lip glosses.
5. Custom Foundation Touch-Up Pen
Sephora Collection Press Play Foundation Touch Up Pen, $7, Sephora
This little contraption is completely genius. You fill it up with your favorite foundation formula (no matter the brand) and have a mini, loaded applicator ready to go at all times. No makeup melting here.
6. Mini Cootie Protection
You'll probably be hugging people, dancing with people, and touching all kinds of foreign car door handles. This mini lavender-scented hand sanitizing spray not only smells amazing, but will disinfect your hands in a snap when you don't feel like braving the bathroom line.
7. Mini Mints
Altoi ds Smalls (9-pack), $7, Amazon
This may seem like an obvious one, but the mini container means this classic is ready for even the tiniest bag. Don't chew gum on prom, it's tacky.
8. Mini Recharge
Triple C Power Card, $40, Triple C
I know this isn't a beauty product, but what use is your perfect makeup if you can't take the perfect group selfie? More importantly, prom goes on for many hours, and it's always a good idea to be armed with a charge. You never know when you'll need to track down a friend or call an Uber (or your mom).
9. Mini Instant Shine Control
Sephora Collection Mattifying Blotting Films, $10, Sephora
Lots of dancing and crowded spaces = shiny faces. A pack of these is virtually weightless, can fit in any wallet or purse pocket, and will help gently mattify your face without destroying your makeup.
10. Mini Mirror
Credit Card Mirror, $18, Marc Jacobs
If you're not bringing a compact, this credit card sized mirror is the ultimate alternative. And you won't have to elbow your way through other girls trying to get some face time with the bathroom mirror.
11. Mini Malfunction Protection
Hollywood Fashion Secrets Fashion Tape 3 Pack, $12, Amazon
You're most likely wearing this dress for the first time, and you never really know how something holds up to movement until you've tested it out. These mini double-stick tape strips are strong and subtle, and will make sure your dress stays put when it's not cooperating. A couple safety pins wouldn't be a bad idea either.
12. New Shoe Blister Rescue
Band-Aid Advanced Healing Blister Cushions, $4, Jet
Much like your dress, your prom shoes probably aren't broken in. Hours on your feet (whether you've opted for heels or not) can put new shoes to the test, and frequently cause some discomfort. Even if you don't get terrible blisters, the blister bandaids are ultra padded and stay put so you can save your feet before it's too late.
13. Mini Every Single Type Of Makeup
The Everyday Kit, $79, Stowaway Cosmetics
If you want to ensure you have a full face of makeup handy, Stowaway offers a customizable, six piece set of mini makeup. You get BB cream, concealer, blush, mascara, eyeliner, and lipstick in the kit — but you can also purchase them separately.
Of course, individual needs will vary, but coming stocked with a personalized emergency kit is always a good idea. Just don't blame me when your friends raid your goodies.
