WASHINGTON: The United States said on Monday it was partly easing its ban on liquids and gels in carry-on bags on airline flights, a policy imposed last month after authorities in London said they foiled a plot to bomb US-bound flights.   

A Homeland Security official said most liquids and gels purchased at stores in the secure area of airport terminals would now be permitted.   

Lip gloss and hand lotion will no longer be confiscated by airport screeners. Those items will be checked over and placed in bags for passengers to carry aboard, if they clear security.