7 Ways To Keep Your Skin Healthy During Travel

ByMoira Lawler

7 Easy Home Hacks For Healthy Skin While Traveling!

1. Stay Hydrated Internally to Retain Moisture Externally

Want to keep your skin glowing? Drink water! Seriously, it’s the best way to combat the drying humidity levels you’ll face during flights. One study found that young, active women who drank enough water showed improved skin hydration.

Mraz suggests starting early. Divide your body weight by two and drink that many ounces of water each day leading up to your travels. Easy peasy, right?

2. Keep Your Lips Hydrated With an Ointment

Don’t forget about your lips! Long travel days can dry them out. Dr. Garshick emphasizes the importance of keeping your lips well-hydrated. She recommends using petroleum-based ointments. They create a barrier that locks in moisture. Perfect for those long flights!

3. Wear Sunscreen Even on Travel Days

Heading to a sunny spot? You’ve packed your sunscreen, right? But wait! Don’t skip it just because you’re at the airport or on a plane. It’s a good habit to slather it on every day, especially when flying.

Did you know that airline pilots have higher rates of melanoma? That’s due to increased exposure to UV rays. Protect your skin by applying sunscreen before takeoff. Aim for at least SPF 30 and reapply every couple of hours.

Discover the 11 best mineral and chemical sunscreens, tested by experts and vetted by dermatologists. Here are our picks for every budget and skin type. Learn More

4. Bring Your Usual Products With You

Stick to what you know! Bringing your usual skin-care products means your skin won’t have to adjust to new stuff while you’re already stressed from travel. Mraz suggests looking for sample-size versions of your essentials.

And hey, don’t just pour your oils and serums into travel containers without checking first! Most vitamin C serums need to be kept in a cool, dark place. Basics like cleansers usually do fine in travel-size bottles, though!

5. Avoid Potentially Irritating Hotel Skin-Care Products

Let’s be real—hotel lotions and soaps can be a disaster for your skin. Dr. Scott Flugman warns against using those little bottles in your hotel bathroom. They often contain fragrances and preservatives that can worsen dry skin.

If you have sensitive skin, this is especially important! Bring your own travel-size bottles of nourishing shampoo and conditioner. You can also use a hair mask when you arrive at your hotel to lock in moisture.

6. Prepare for Acne Breakouts

Even with all this prep, your skin might still throw a tantrum. Stress, lack of sleep, and changes in the atmosphere can trigger breakouts. Dr. Tanya Nino carries a small tube of 10 percent benzoyl peroxide to tackle any unexpected blemishes. Be ready!

7. Treat Yourself to a Sheet Mask or Facial Mist While en Route

Why not pamper your skin while traveling? I love to use a hydrating mask on long flights! Dr. Patricia Farris suggests packing a hydrating facial mist. Spray it on throughout your trip to keep your skin moisturized. Sure, you might get some funny looks from fellow passengers, but who cares? Your skin will be glowing when you land!

The Takeaway

Traveling can be tough on your skin, but there are simple steps to keep it happy!

• Focus on hydration, stress reduction, and sun protection. These basics can help keep your skin calm.

• Stick to your usual skin-care routine. Bringing your own products can save you from skin aggravation.

• Be prepared for the worst—whether it’s an unexpected breakout or dry airplane air.

  
  

So, there you have it! Happy travels, and here’s to healthy skin on the go!