Building a travel skincare routine requires considering the specific needs and challenges that arise during travel, such as changes in climate, air quality, and limited access to your usual skincare products.
How Does Travelling Affect Your Skin?
Climate Changes
You may notice that your skin is susceptible when traveling from one extreme temperature to another, such as flying from a warm and humid location to an arid area. This is because your skin has an in-built hydration system called the natural moisturizing factor (NMF), which adapts based on the surroundings.
Because your skin can pull in enough moisture from the air, if you spend most of your time in a humid environment, your skin will naturally create less NMF than someone who lives in a dry region. When you move from a damp area to a dry climate, your skin will not have enough NMF to stay hydrated – at least not until it has had enough time to adapt and begin creating a suitable amount.
Airplane Air
During your journey, recirculated cabin air can incredibly dry your skin, having the same effects as sitting in front of an air conditioner or heater for hours. Furthermore, items that you may touch or rest your face on, such as pillows, headrests, and the tray in front of you, can be contaminated with bacteria.
Hotel Skincare Items
Hotel face washes, soaps, and moisturizers, as convenient as they are, may wreak havoc on your skin and should be avoided as much as possible. Please carry your products in small travel bottles instead, and remember that you don’t have to take your complete bathroom countertop. A cleanser, moisturizer, SPF, and one or two treatment products are all required.
Eating Habits
Most of us sometimes make different healthy eating and drinking choices abroad than at home, which can harm our skin. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help prevent unhealthy eating and drinking habits when away from home. This will assist in preventing the drying effects of alcohol and sweets, which can make your skin look and feel dry and dull.
How To Combat Skin Issues When Travelling?
Here are some tips to help you build an effective travel skincare routine:
- Keep it Simple: Opt for a streamlined routine with essential products to minimize the number of items you need to carry and simplify your skincare routine while traveling.
- Cleanser:
- Choose a gentle and travel-friendly cleanser that suits your skin type. Look for a cleanser that removes dirt, sweat, and impurities without stripping your skin.
- Consider travel-sized or solid cleanser options to comply with liquid restrictions and minimize spillage.
- Moisturizer:
- Use a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer suitable for your skin type. Look for a product that can provide hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
- You should consider a moisturizer with added SPF for sun protection during the day.
- Sunscreen:
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for a travel-sized sunscreen or transfer a small amount into a travel-friendly container.
- Please make sure you apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas, including your face, neck, and any other parts of your body that will be exposed to the sun.
- Multi-purpose Products:
- Consider multi-purpose products to minimize the number of products you need to carry. For example, a tinted moisturizer or BB cream can provide light coverage, hydration, and sun protection in one product.
- Please look for multi-purpose products that serve multiple skincare functions, such as a moisturizing lip balm with SPF.
- Travel-sized Products:
- Opt for travel-sized versions of your favorite skincare products whenever possible. Many brands offer travel-sized options or empty travel-friendly containers you can fill with your preferred products.
- Remember to comply with liquid restrictions if traveling with carry-on luggage and transfer liquids into travel-sized containers if needed.
- Cleansing Wipes or Micellar Water:
- Pack gentle cleansing wipes or a travel-sized bottle of micellar water for quick and convenient cleansing. These can be handy when you have limited access to water or need a quick refresh.
- Hydrating Mist:
- Carry a travel-sized hydrating facial mist to keep your skin refreshed and hydrated throughout your journey. It can boost moisture and help combat dryness during long flights or in dry environments.
- Consider Climate and Destination:
- You can adapt your skincare routine to the specific climate and destination you are traveling to. For example, if you are heading to dry or cold weather, you may need to prioritize more intensive moisturization.
- Hydration and Rest:
- Remember to drink plenty of water and prioritize adequate rest during your travels. Hydration and sufficient sleep can significantly improve your skin’s health and appearance.
Before traveling, it’s also a good idea to test any new products or changes to your skincare routine for at least a few weeks to ensure they work well with your skin and don’t cause any adverse reactions.
Maintaining a simplified yet effective skincare routine while traveling will help keep your skin clean, protected, and hydrated, allowing you to enjoy your trip confidently.
