Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but it can also wreak havoc on your skin. Changes in climate, long flights, and disruptions to your usual skincare routine can leave your skin feeling dry, tired, and prone to breakouts. Dr. Tom Goyer, a skincare expert in Sydney, shares his top tips for maintaining healthy skin while traveling. With a little preparation and the right strategies, you can keep your skin looking its best no matter where your travels take you.
1. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key to healthy skin, especially when traveling. Airplane cabins and changes in climate can dehydrate your skin, leading to dryness and dullness.
- Tip: Drink plenty of water throughout your journey. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day, and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you further.
2. Simplify Your Skincare Routine
Traveling with a pared-down skincare routine can make it easier to maintain healthy skin on the go. Stick to the essentials to ensure your skin gets the care it needs without overloading your luggage.
- Tip: Pack a gentle cleanser, a hydrating moisturizer, sunscreen, and a travel-sized serum that addresses your primary skin concerns (e.g., vitamin C for brightening, hyaluronic acid for hydration).
3. Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Whether you’re flying or spending time outdoors, sun protection is crucial. UV rays can cause premature aging, sunburn, and increase the risk of skin cancer.
- Tip: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every morning. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors. Don’t forget to protect your lips with an SPF lip balm.
4. Keep Your Skin Clean
Travel can expose your skin to new pollutants and bacteria, increasing the risk of breakouts. Keeping your skin clean is essential for preventing clogged pores and irritation.
- Tip: Use gentle cleansing wipes or micellar water for a quick cleanse, especially after long flights. Follow up with a splash of water and your regular cleanser when you reach your destination.
5. Moisturise Regularly
Changes in climate, air conditioning, and long flights can strip your skin of moisture. Keeping your skin well-hydrated is essential to prevent dryness and irritation.
- Tip: Use a hydrating moisturiser morning and night. Consider a richer formula if you’re traveling to a dry or cold climate. Carry a travel-sized facial mist to refresh and hydrate your skin throughout the day.
6. Get Plenty of Sleep
Travel can disrupt your sleep schedule, leading to tired, stressed skin. Prioritise getting enough rest to allow your skin to repair and rejuvenate.
- Tip: Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent irritation. Bring a sleep mask and earplugs to help you sleep better on planes or in unfamiliar environments.
7. Avoid Touching Your Face
Touching your face can transfer dirt, oil, and bacteria from your hands to your skin, leading to breakouts and irritation.
- Tip: Keep your hands clean by washing them regularly and using hand sanitiser. Be mindful of touching your face and try to avoid it as much as possible.
8. Use a Humidifier
If you’re staying in a hotel or flying for long periods, the air can be very dry and strip your skin of moisture.
- Tip: Consider using a portable humidifier in your hotel room to add moisture to the air. This can help keep your skin hydrated and comfortable.
9. Treat Your Skin to a Mask
Travel can be stressful for your skin, so give it some extra TLC with a hydrating or soothing mask.
- Tip: Pack a few sheet masks or travel-sized mask treatments to use during your trip. They’re easy to use and can provide a much-needed boost of hydration and relaxation.
10. Maintain a Healthy Diet
What you eat can have a big impact on your skin. While it’s tempting to indulge while traveling, try to maintain a balanced diet to support your skin health.
- Tip: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to provide your skin with essential nutrients. Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods that can contribute to breakouts and inflammation.
Maintaining healthy skin while traveling doesn’t have to be complicated. By staying hydrated, protecting your skin from the sun, and sticking to a simplified skincare routine, you can keep your skin looking its best no matter where your adventures take you. If you need personalised skincare advice or product recommendations, Dr Tom Goyer is here to help. For more tips and insights, visit Dr Tom Goyer’s blog.