I have checked the TSA web site and am still confused as to just what is required in the quart sized bags etc. Specifically, I am wondering about my MAC creamy foundation compact as well as a foundation stick. Is it permissible to carry these items in my handbag or do I have to place them in the quart bag too. What about lip gloss? I remember reading a post somewhere about what is allowed but can not find it.
We are leaving for Nepal and India this week. Thanks for your help.

I flew domestically last week and followed the "if in doubt, bag it" line of reasoning. I also found some of the info on the TSA site confusing. I was surprised at how much I could get into the little bag. The TSA site says non-prescription meds (in reasonable amounts) may be carried in your carry-on but have to be declared.

I usually put in my lip gloss and any gel-like substances (like lip balm) in the bag.

Anything in gel or liquid form must be in the quart-sized bags. That would include your lip gloss and mascara.

Things that are solids (i.e., lipstick, deodorant, chapstick, foundation sticks, cream foundation compact), will 99% of the time go through security without having to be put in the quart-sized bags.

I know because I did this when flying SWA in August from PHX to OAK and back.

Here's the TSA link:
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtrav...ted-items.shtm

I hope this whole link copied okay into this post.

Have fun in Nepal and India!

I went to the UK a couple of weeks ago with almost all my makeup, including a concealer stick and foundation/powder compact, in my regular carryon. I put my mascara and lip gloss in my quart bag (if I'd taken my regular mousse foundation, I would have put that in there as well). No problems at all.

Just leave some wiggle room in case you have to put them in the bag. It's happened to me.