• Drink plenty of water and moisturize frequently to stay hydrated while traveling.
• Protect the skin from sun damage by wearing sunscreen, hats, protective clothing, and sunglasses.
• In cold climates, wear a moisturizing layer to trap heat, take hot showers, and use lip balm regularly.
• Pack travel-size skincare products or find something at the destination that suits your needs.
If you travel frequently, you know that your skin can sometimes take a beating. In-flight air conditioning, long days in the sun, and the stress of navigating unfamiliar airports are some of the pitfalls you may face when taking care of your skin. But don’t worry! With a few simple tips, you can keep your skin looking healthy and refreshed even on the go.
Stay Hydrated
One of the most important things you can do for yourself while traveling is to stay hydrated. This means drinking plenty of water—at least eight glasses a day—and keeping your body hydrated from the inside out with an effective moisturizing routine. Pack travel-size moisturizers and lotions in your carry-on bag, so you always have them on hand. Also, avoid caffeine and alcohol as much as possible; both dehydrate and can exacerbate existing skin issues.
Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage
Protecting your skin from sun damage is essential when traveling. Whether you’re headed to a sunny destination or simply spending time outdoors in your hometown, here are things you can do to stay safe:
Apply Sunscreen
Applying sunscreen before spending extended time outside is key to maintaining healthy skin. Choose a broad-spectrum formula that offers UVA and UVB protection with at least SPF 15. Reapply every two hours or sooner if you’ve been swimming or sweating excessively. Apply it on your face, neck, arms, and legs — anywhere the sun can reach.
Use a Hat and Protective Clothing
A wide-brimmed hat effectively protects your face and neck from the sun’s harmful rays. Look for hats with UPF 50+ protection that blocks 97% or more UV radiation. Also, wear lightweight clothing that covers your skin. Look for items with UPF ratings, or purchase fabric designed to offer UV protection.
Wear Sunglasses
Sunglasses are stylish and a great way to protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays. Look for sunglasses with UV protection, and wear them outside even on cloudy days. Prescription sunglasses are also available, especially if you have a vision condition like astigmatism.
Protecting Your Skin from Too Much Cold
When traveling to cold climates, take extra care of your skin. Excessively cold temperatures can cause your skin to become dry and chapped. If you’re going out, here are a few steps you can take to protect your skin:
Wear a Moisturizing Layer
A moisturizing layer of clothing that covers your body will help trap precious moisture. Look for made-from-wool fabrics such as sweaters, scarves, and hats that keep in heat and provide an extra layer of protection from the cold.
Take Hot Showers
Hot showers can be therapeutic and help keep your skin hydrated even in the coldest temperatures. Avoid boiling-hot water, however, as this can strip away essential oils from your skin and cause irritation. Use gentle cleansers specifically designed for sensitive or dry skin types infused with natural ingredients such as aloe vera or chamomile.
Protect Your Lips
Your lips can become dry and cracked from extended exposure to cold weather. Cracks may cause pain and even bleeding. Always have a lip balm handy while traveling. Look for products that contain beeswax, shea butter, or vitamin E to help lock in moisture and keep your lips soft and kissable. Apply every few hours or when your lips start to dry out.
Be Mindful of Your Skin Care Routine
Just because you’re on the go doesn’t mean you have to neglect your skincare routine. Stick with your routine by following these tips:
Pack a Few Travel-Size Skincare Products
Pack a few travel-size versions of your favorite skin care products, such as cleansers, moisturizers, and serums. This way, you can keep up with your routine even when you’re away from home. Make sure that you bring enough to last the entire duration of your trip.
Find Something That Suits Your Needs
If you want to avoid bringing all your products on the trip, try to find something that suits your needs at the destination. If you are traveling in a humid country like Singapore, look for products that contain ingredients to help combat the humidity. There are a variety of skin care products in Singapore that are specifically designed to help skin fight the harsh climate but are still light and hydrating.
You don’t have to sacrifice your skin health just because you’re on the go. With these simple skin care tips, you can keep your skin looking its best no matter where your travels take you!
