Shampoo, Lotions, and Creams
Treat as liquids/gels. Cabin limit 100ml per container inside the 1L bag.
Liquids, gels, and creams such as shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and facewash must stay in 100ml-or-smaller containers when travelling in cabin. Bigger bottles belong in checked baggage with lids taped and placed inside leak-proof pouches.
When allowed vs. when not
✅ When it's allowed
- •Use leak-proof silicone bottles with wide mouths for easy cleaning.
- •Label products clearly so officers can see they are cosmetic, not chemicals.
- •Carry a spare zip pouch—security may ask to re-bag if the first one tears.
🚫 When it's NOT allowed
- •Don’t overfill travel bottles; leave headspace for pressure expansion.
- •Don’t assume hotel toiletries pass muster; if they’re over 100ml you still can’t bring them back through security.
- •Avoid mixing multiple products in one bottle ‘to save space’; leaks become impossible to clean.
What counts as liquid/gel
| Product | Cabin handling | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shampoo/conditioner | ≤100ml each | Decant or carry sachets |
| Body lotion | ≤100ml | Thick creams still count as gel |
| Solid shampoo bar | Exempt | Keep under 100g |
Frequently asked questions
Are refill pouches treated differently from bottles?+
Can baby shampoo exceed 100ml if travelling with an infant?+
Do sheet masks count?+
Related guides
Related rules
Perfume / Deodorant
Cabin limit 100ml per bottle inside a 1L clear bag. Larger bottles go in checked baggage.
Sanitizer allowance
Cabin limit 100ml per container, same as any other liquid — the 350ml pandemic-era allowance ended. Checked baggage allows larger bottles if sealed.
Makeup kit
Liquid or gel-based makeup counts toward the 100ml rule; compact powders are exempt.
Nail polish/remover
Allowed in cabin up to 100ml and in checked bags up to 0.5L per container.
Liquid bottles >100ml
Liquids above 100ml per container are banned from cabin unless exempt (baby food/medicines).
Hair oil / ghee
Counts as liquid/gel. Cabin up to 100ml; checked baggage allowed with leak-proof packing.
Official references
DGCA guidelines — simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.