Travelling is a joy—a chance to explore new places, meet new people, and make unforgettable memories. But while your heart may be full of adventure, your skin may not be so enthusiastic.
The combination of dry aeroplane air, fluctuating climates, and the inevitable exposure to new environments can transform your radiant complexion into a dull, tired look.
Fear not, fellow traveller! With the right skin care routine, you can keep your skin glowing and healthy, no matter where you roam.
Let’s dive into some essential travel skin care tips to help you maintain that glow on the go.
Key Points to Consider Before You Embark on Your Adventure
Before we dive into the details of your travel skin care routine, let’s go over some foundational tips to set you up for success:
- Test Before You Travel: Planning to try out a new skin care product on your trip? Not so fast! Your skin will already be dealing with changes in environment and climate, so this isn’t the time to introduce something new. Test any new products at least a week before you leave to avoid any potential reactions.
- Pack Smart, Pack Light: Multi-use products are a traveller’s best friend. Think of a moisturiser with SPF that doubles as sun protection, or a lip balm that hydrates lips and soothes cuticles. This strategy not only saves space but also simplifies your routine without compromising on effectiveness.
- Travel-Size Your Essentials: Decant your favourite products into small, travel-sized containers. This tactic helps you adhere to TSA liquid restrictions and ensures you have all your essentials in a compact, organised way.
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Hydration begins from within. Drink plenty of water before and during your flight to keep your skin hydrated. Your skin (and overall health) will benefit greatly from staying well-hydrated.
With these basics in mind, let’s explore the best skin care practices for before, during, and after your travels.
Pre-Travel Skin Care Preparation
1. Stick to Your Trusted Routine
The days leading up to your departure are not the time to overhaul your skin care regimen. Stick to what your skin knows and loves. Travel exposes your skin to numerous stressors—new climates, altered sleep patterns, and varying air quality.
Adding new products into the mix could lead to irritation or breakouts. So, keep it simple with your tried-and-true favourites.
2. Hydrate from the Outside In
Hydration is crucial, especially before you board a flight.
The air inside an aeroplane is incredibly dry—typically around 10-20% humidity compared to the usual 40-60% we’re accustomed to on the ground. This can be very drying for your skin, leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable.
Make sure to apply a hydrating serum under a rich moisturiser before you take off. This combination helps to lock in moisture and protect your skin’s natural barrier.
3. Consider a Pre-Flight Hydration Boost
Give your skin an extra dose of hydration with a moisturising mask the night before or the morning of your flight. This preflight ritual will help your skin stay plump and glowing, ready to face the dry cabin air.
Must-Have Skin Care Items for Your Travel Bag
When preparing for your adventure, make sure your skin care bag is packed with essentials that are both practical and effective:
1. Gentle Cleanser
A good cleanser is essential for removing dirt, sweat, and impurities that accumulate throughout the day. Choose a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. This will keep your skin clean without leaving it feeling dry or tight.
2. Moisturiser with SPF
Always pack a moisturiser with SPF. Even if you’re not planning on spending much time outdoors, UV rays can penetrate through clouds and windows, causing skin damage. A moisturiser with SPF provides necessary hydration while also protecting against harmful rays.
3. Lip Balm
The skin on your lips is thin and lacks oil glands, making it particularly prone to dryness and chapping. Keep a nourishing lip balm in your bag to maintain soft, hydrated lips throughout your trip.
4. Facial Wipes or Towelettes
Facial wipes are a convenient option for quick cleansing, especially during long flights or layovers when washing your face isn’t practical. While they shouldn’t replace a proper cleansing routine, they’re great for a quick refresh.
5. Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
A high-quality sunscreen is essential, regardless of your destination. Protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays is crucial to prevent sunburn, premature ageing, and other skin concerns. Make sure to apply sunscreen every morning and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors.
In-Flight Skin Care Routine
Now that you’re up in the air, here’s how to keep your skin happy at cruising altitude:
1. Drink Plenty of Water
The dry cabin air can dehydrate your skin quickly. Make it a habit to drink a glass of water every hour to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these can further dehydrate your skin.
2. Go Minimal with Makeup
Heavy makeup and long flights are not a good combination. It can clog your pores and cause breakouts. Instead, opt for a minimal makeup look or go bare-faced to let your skin breathe. If you prefer some coverage, a tinted moisturiser with SPF is a great choice.
3. Opt for a Sheet Mask Instead of a Mist
While facial mists are refreshing, they might not provide lasting hydration in a dry cabin environment. Instead, use a sheet mask during the flight. It delivers a surge of moisture and nutrients to your skin, helping to combat the effects of dry air.
4. Reapply Moisturiser Regularly
Bring a small, travel-sized moisturiser in your carry-on and reapply as needed throughout the flight. This will help to maintain moisture levels and keep your skin feeling soft and comfortable.
Post-Travel Skin Care Tips
After a long flight or journey, your skin might feel a bit lacklustre. Here’s how to revive your complexion:
1. Deep Cleanse and Exfoliate
Travelling can expose your skin to dirt, pollution, and other environmental aggressors. As soon as you can, do a deep cleanse to remove any accumulated grime. Follow with a gentle exfoliator to slough off dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. This will leave your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and ready for further hydration.
2. Rehydrate Your Skin
After a flight, your skin is often dehydrated and dull. Replenish lost moisture with a hydrating and detoxifying serum or a rich moisturiser. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid are particularly effective at drawing moisture into the skin and keeping it there.
3. Be Prepared for Breakouts
Breakouts can happen, especially with the added stress of travel and exposure to new environments. Be prepared with a spot treatment to quickly address any blemishes that pop up. Treating them early can prevent them from getting worse and help you maintain a clear complexion.
Skin Care Tips for Different Skin Types While Travelling
Different skin types have different needs, especially while travelling. Here’s how to tailor your routine based on your skin type:
1. For Oily Skin
If you have oily skin, your focus should be on controlling excess oil without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. Use blotting papers to manage shine and avoid over-washing your face, as this can lead to increased oil production. A lightweight, oil-free moisturiser can provide hydration without clogging pores.
2. For Dry Skin
Dry skin can become even drier with travel, especially if you’re headed to a colder climate or spending long hours in a dry cabin environment. Use a rich, emollient moisturiser to lock in hydration, and consider layering it with a facial oil to create a barrier against moisture loss.
3. For Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin can be easily irritated by changes in climate, water quality, and exposure to new allergens. Stick to fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products and consider packing a calming serum or cream to soothe any redness or irritation that might occur.
Skin Care Tips for Different Travel Destinations
Your skin care routine should also be adjusted based on your destination’s climate:
1. Cold Climates
Cold weather can strip your skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness and irritation. In these environments, it’s essential to use a thicker moisturiser and consider incorporating a facial oil to protect your skin’s barrier.
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen—even on overcast days, UV rays can still penetrate the clouds.
2. Humid Climates
In humid climates, lightweight, non-comedogenic products are key. A light moisturiser and a mattifying sunscreen can help keep your skin hydrated without feeling greasy. Make sure to cleanse regularly to remove sweat and prevent clogged pores.
FAQs: Common Questions About Travel Skin Care
1. What are the most important travel skin care essentials?
A gentle cleanser, moisturiser with SPF, lip balm, facial wipes, and broad-spectrum sunscreen are the basics. These essentials help maintain a simple yet effective skin care routine that can adapt to any environment.
2. How do I keep my skin hydrated on a flight?
Hydrate from the inside by drinking water regularly and from the outside with a hydrating sheet mask and frequent applications of a lightweight moisturiser. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate your skin.
3. Is it okay to skip my skin care routine while travelling?
While it might be tempting, sticking to a routine is important to prevent skin issues. Even a simplified version of your daily regimen can help keep your skin balanced and healthy.
Conclusion
Travelling can be a feast for the soul, but it doesn’t have to be a famine for your skin.
By following these simple yet effective skin care tips, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing no matter where your journey takes you. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way—whether it’s choosing the right products or staying consistent with your routine, your skin will thank you for the care and attention.
And if you’re looking for personalised skin care advice tailored to your specific needs, why not reach out to your nearest Willa Krause consultant? These experts can provide you with the best recommendations and help you explore the full catalogue of Willa Krause products.
Get in touch to ensure your skin stays as adventurous as your spirit!