Best Skin Care Routine for Travel: Tips from a Pro

Ever found yourself on a long-haul flight, feeling your skin dry out by the minute? Or maybe you’ve returned from a beach vacation, only to discover your skin is sun-damaged and irritated. I’ve been there too, and as a seasoned cosmetic dentist with a passion for aesthetic medicine, I’ve learned a thing or two about maintaining healthy skin while traveling. Today, I’m going to share my best skin care routine for travel. Trust me, your skin will thank you!

When I moved from the Bay Area to Istanbul, I was suddenly taking more flights, dealing with different climates, and eating new foods. My skin was freaking out! It took me a while to figure out a solid travel skincare routine, but now I’ve got it down. And remember, a good skin care routine is not just about the products you use, it’s also about your habits and understanding what your skin needs. So, let’s dive in!

Prep Before You Go

Know Your Destination

First things first, research the climate of your destination. Is it humid? Dry? Cold? Hot? Your skin will react differently to each of these, so it’s important to be prepared. For instance, if you’re heading to a humid place, you might want to pack lighter moisturizers and mattifying products. On the other hand, if you’re going somewhere dry, make sure to bring heavy-duty moisturizers and maybe even a hydrating mask. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider…

Visit Your Dermatologist

If you’re planning to be away for a while, it might be a good idea to visit your dermatologist before you go. They can help you figure out a skincare plan tailored to your trip and maybe even prescribe some handy medications to take with you. I’m torn between suggesting this for every trip or just longer ones, but ultimately, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Pack Travel-Sized Essentials

Invest in some good travel-sized bottles and fill them up with your favorite products. Remember, you can’t take liquids over 100ml in your carry-on, so plan accordingly. Maybe I should clarify, this rule might change depending on where you’re flying, so always check the regulations before you pack.

In-Flight Skincare

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Airplanes have incredibly dry air, which can wreak havoc on your skin. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the flight. I try to avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you further. Instead, opt for herbal tea or just plain old H2O.

The In-Flight Routine

Okay, so this might seem a bit extra, but hear me out. Before you board, cleanse your face and apply a hydrating serum and a rich moisturizer. Once you’re settled in your seat, apply a hydrating sheet mask. Yes, you might look a bit silly, but your skin will thank you! After the mask, apply another layer of moisturizer and maybe even a face oil to lock it all in.

For longer flights, I like to repeat this process mid-way through. And just before landing, I’ll freshen up with a cleansing wipe and apply a light moisturizer and some eye cream. It’s not perfect, but it helps me feel a bit more human when I step off the plane.

Skincare On The Go

Keep It Simple

When you’re traveling, it’s not always feasible to maintain your full 10-step skincare routine. And that’s okay! The key is to keep it simple. Focus on the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. If you have a bit more space in your luggage, you can add in a serum or a face mask.

Be Sun Smart

Sun protection is so important, especially when you’re traveling. You’re often out and about more than usual, so make sure to apply sunscreen every morning and reapply throughout the day. I like to use a mineral sunscreen that’s gentle on my skin and doesn’t leave a white cast.

Be Mindful of New Products

It can be tempting to buy new skincare products while you’re traveling, but be careful. You never know how your skin is going to react to new ingredients, especially when it’s already dealing with the stress of travel. I’d suggest saving the experimentation for when you’re back home.

Post-Travel Skincare

The Post-Travel Detox

Once you’re back home, give your skin a little TLC with a detox routine. This could include a gentle exfoliation, a hydrating mask, and maybe even a professional facial if your budget allows for it. I like to do this the day after I return, once I’ve caught up on some sleep.

Back to Basics

After the detox, you can go back to your regular skincare routine. If you’ve picked up any bad habits while traveling (like forgetting to wash your face before bed), make sure to break them! Remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare.

Dealing with Skin Issues On The Go

Breakouts

Even the best of us can fall victim to travel-induced breakouts. If this happens to you, don’t panic! Make sure you’re cleansing your face regularly and avoid picking at the spots. A small dab of tea tree oil can work wonders too.

Dryness

If your skin is feeling dry, make sure to up your hydration game. Drink plenty of water and apply a rich moisturizer regularly. You might also want to consider using a hydrating face mist throughout the day.

Sunburn

Sunburn is no fun, but it happens. Make sure to stay out of the sun while it heals and keep your skin cool and hydrated. Aloe vera gel can be a lifesaver in these situations.

You’ve Got This!

Traveling can be stressful, both for you and your skin. But with a bit of planning and the right products, you can keep your skin happy and healthy no matter where you are. And remember, everyone’s skin is different. What works for me might not work for you. The key is to pay attention to your skin and give it what it needs.

Next time you’re planning a trip, don’t forget to plan your skincare too! Your skin will thank you, trust me. And who knows? You might even discover some new favorite products along the way. Have a great trip!

And if you are travelling to Istanbul, Turkey, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit DC Total Care. We provide a wide range of aesthetic and dental treatments that can help you look and feel your best. Whether you’re interested in a simple check-up or a full-on procedure, we’re here to help. Check our contact info below and let’s get in touch!

WhatsApp: +90(543)1974320

Email: info@dctotalcare.com

FAQ

Q: What’s the best way to hydrate skin while traveling?
A: Drink plenty of water, use a hydrating moisturizer, and consider using a face mist throughout the day.

Q: Should I try new skincare products while traveling?
A: It’s best to avoid trying new products while traveling, as you never know how your skin will react.

Q: How can I protect my skin from the sun while traveling?
A: Wear sunscreen every day and reapply regularly. Also, consider wearing a hat and protective clothing.

Q: What should I do if I get a sunburn while traveling?
A: Stay out of the sun, keep your skin cool and hydrated, and use aloe vera gel to soothe the burn.