Summer travel is all about sunshine, new adventures, and unforgettable memories. But your skin might not feel the same way. From dry airplane cabins to hot, humid destinations, traveling can throw off your usual skin care routine and lead to unwanted breakouts, dryness, or dullness. But there is some good news: With a little planning, you can keep your glow going strong wherever you are all summer long.
Here are my top summer travel skin care tips to keep your complexion happy and healthy on the go:
Pack 5 Key Travel-Friendly Skin Care Essentials
When space is tight, be strategic. Bring multi-tasking products in travel sizes to save room and simplify your routine:
- Cleanser (gentle, not stripping)
- Moisturizer (lightweight and hydrating)
- Sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hydrating mist or serum (perfect for long flights or dry hotel rooms)
Remember that if you’re flying, opt for solid or stick formulas, when possible, to avoid TSA issues and potential spills.
Stick to Your Routine and Products
Maintain your basic skin care steps, even if you’re jet-lagged or in a new time zone. Cleanse your skin every night. Remember to remove all sunscreen and any makeup.
Although it may be tempting to use the soaps and lotions provided by your hotel, it’s best to skip these. Many contain fragrances, preservatives, and other ingredients that some of my patients find irritate their skin. Plus, these throw you off your usual routine, and your skin will notice that. If you have dry or sensitive skin, these products can have even greater negative effects.
Be Gentle with Your Skin
Travel can be stressful, and so can changes in climate or water quality. Avoid introducing new or harsh products on the road. Instead, bring and use your trusted, gentle formulas that keep your skin balanced and calm.
Never Skip the Sunscreen
Whether you’re sightseeing, hiking, or lounging poolside, sun protection is your skin’s best defense. Apply a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF every morning, and reapply every two hours—especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, neck, hands, and the tops of your feet.
Stay Hydrated—Inside and Out
Travel and sun exposure dehydrate your skin quickly. Drink plenty of water, and use a hydrating toner, essence, or serum to lock in moisture. If your skin feels parched, a sheet mask in the evening can work wonders.
What you eat and drink also affect your hydration. So…
- Avoid salty foods: Chips, nuts and pretzels may seem like a fun travel indulgence, but they aren’t a good idea. They pull water from your skin while causing bloating, swelling, and dehydration. If you’ve ever had your feet swell while flying, you know what I mean. Snacking on veggies is a much better idea.
- Watch the alcohol. You might be tempted to drink your way through your flight or indulge in a frozen cocktail while sitting at the beach, but in reality, alcohol dehydrates. To avoid that from happening, if you’re going to drink, you should drink two glasses of water for every glass of wine/beer/mixed drink.
Post-Travel Reset
When you return home, give your skin a little extra love. A gentle exfoliation can help remove buildup and revive your glow. Consider having microdermabrasion, a chemical peel, or microneedling with exosomes. These treatments will deeply nourish and reset your skin.
Think About It
Your skin doesn’t take a vacation just because you do! A simple, smart travel skin care plan keeps you glowing no matter your destination. And when you return, if you’re having issues getting your skin back in control, please feel free to contact us and set up an appointment.