Traveling to new places is exciting but can take a toll on your skin. Between the long flights, the jet lag, changes in climate, and busy schedules, it’s easy for your skin to lose its glow. But, with the proper skincare routine and a few smart tips, you can keep your skin looking dewy and fresh, even while exploring the world.
Skincare Essentials for Your Trip
As you’re packing, you want to make sure to bring along some key skincare products. You don’t need to bring your entire bathroom cabinet, but a few carefully chosen items can make a big difference. Here’s a list of must-have skincare essentials for your holiday:
- Travel-sized cleanser: Every skincare routine starts with a good face wash. While you can afford to go a bit cheaper on this product, ensure it’s gentle and effective. Simple’s Kind to Skin Refreshing Facial Wash Gel is a great, affordable option that won’t strip your skin.
- Hydrating moisturizer: Look for a mini version of your favorite moisturizer. The Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream, available in a travel-friendly size, is excellent for keeping your skin hydrated and plump.
- Vitamin-rich serum: Face serums packed with vitamins can give your skin an extra boost. The Fresh Vitamin Nectar Serum (15ml) is a great choice, offering antioxidant protection and a healthy glow.
- Sunscreen: Never skip sun protection, especially when traveling. For best results, choose a broad-spectrum SPF30 or higher.
- Lip balm: You’ll also want to keep your lips soft and protected with a nourishing balm. You can’t go wrong with Carmex.
- Sheet masks: Pack a couple for an extra dose of hydration after long flights or busy days.
Remember, you don’t need to bring full-sized products when going abroad. Travel-sized versions of your favorite skincare items are perfect for maintaining your routine without weighing down your luggage.
Maintaining Dewy Skin on the Go
Now that you know what to pack, let’s look at some tips for keeping your skin glowing throughout your travels:
Stay Hydrated
This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget when you’re busy exploring. Ideally, you want to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Cleanse Gently
After a long day of sightseeing, you might be tempted to scrub your face vigorously. Resist this urge! Gentle cleansing is more than enough to remove dirt and makeup, and it will do so without stripping your skin’s natural oils.
Layer Your Skincare
When going through your skincare routine, start with the lightest products (like toners or essences) and work your way up to heavier creams — this helps each product absorb better.
Don’t Skip Moisturizer
Even in a humid climate, your skin still needs hydration. Choose a lighter formula if needed, but always moisturize.
Mist Regularly
Carry a hydrating face mist in your day bag. A quick spritz can refresh your skin and help maintain that dewy look, even in dry or air-conditioned environments.
Adjust Your Routine to the Climate
If you’re traveling to a place with a very different climate, be prepared to tweak your skincare routine. For example, you might need a heavier moisturizer in dry, cold climates or a lighter, oil-free option in humid areas.
Don’t Touch Your Face
Your hands come into contact with lots of germs throughout the day, especially when traveling. Avoid touching your face to prevent breakouts and irritation.
Get Enough Sleep
Try to sleep enough, even when your trips mess up your usual bedtime. Your skin repairs itself while you’re sleeping, so getting good rest helps keep your skin looking fresh and glowy.
Eat Skin-Friendly Foods
Try to incorporate foods rich in antioxidants and healthy fats into your diet. Berries, leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish can all contribute to healthy, glowing skin.
Dealing With Specific Travel Challenges
Traveling to different places can be tough on your skin. Let’s look at how to keep your skin glowing in various travel situations:
Long Flights
If you’re flying for many hours, using a face mask that adds moisture to your skin during the flight is a good idea. This will help keep your skin from getting too dry. Also, try not to wear makeup when you’re on the plane if you can avoid it, and before the plane lands, wash your face to remove any dirt or oil that built up during the flight.
Beach Vacations
You should take extra care of your skin at the beach or poolside. Reapply sunscreen often, especially after you swim or sweat a lot. This helps keep your skin safe from the sun. Try to wash off saltwater from the ocean or chlorine from the pool as soon as possible to stop your skin from getting too dry.
City Breaks
If you’re doing a city staycation or break, take care of your skin by using products rich in antioxidants. These help shield your skin from pollution. At the end of each day, make sure to wash your face really well to get rid of all the dirt and grime from the city air that builds up on your skin.
Mountain Getaways
Use a thicker, richer moisturizer to shield your skin from the cold, dry air when in the mountains or cold places. This might surprise you, but you’re just as susceptible to sun damage when you’re up high in the mountains, so don’t skip the sunscreen even when it’s chilly or cloudy!
Glowing On The Go
Maintaining dewy skin while traveling is all about preparation, adaptation, and consistency. Pack your essentials, be ready to adjust your routine based on your destination and schedule, and don’t forget the basics of skincare — cleanse, hydrate, and protect. With these tips and a little attention to your skin’s needs, you can maintain that enviable, dewy glow no matter where your adventures take you.
