There’s nothing quite like a holiday to melt away stress and leave your worries behind. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a tropical beach or zipping down the slopes during a winter getaway, taking a break works wonders for your mental well-being. But let’s face it—travel can be tough on your skin.
Different climates, long travel hours, and changes in your daily routine can leave your skin feeling dry, oily, sweaty, or even prone to breakouts. What’s normal for your skin at home can quickly turn into the complete opposite while you’re away. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take before, during, and after your trip to keep your skin looking fresh and healthy.
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### **Before You Travel**
The foundation of healthy skin starts with a solid routine. In the days leading up to your trip, stay consistent with your skincare regimen. Always remove makeup before bed, and don’t skip the basics: cleanse, tone, and moisturize daily. Building this habit before you go ensures it’ll be easier to stick to while you’re away.
Packing smart is another key step. Bring your usual skincare essentials—makeup remover, moisturizer, and sunscreen—as well as some extra travel-friendly products you’ll need for your destination, like after-sun lotion or redness reducers. A tinted moisturizer with SPF is especially handy if you’re heading somewhere hot. Heavy makeup like concealer or foundation can feel stifling and clog your pores in the heat, so opt for something lighter that offers coverage *and* UV protection.
If you’re flying, remember that liquids are restricted in hand luggage. Pack a travel-size moisturizer in your carry-on to keep your skin from drying out during the flight.
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### **During Travel**
Long journeys—especially flights—can be notoriously dehydrating for your skin. Combat dryness by refreshing your face with a thin layer of moisturizer once or twice during the trip. If possible, go light on the makeup while traveling to avoid clogging your pores.
A refreshing face mist can be a lifesaver to cool and hydrate your skin. Don’t forget to pack eye drops to soothe tired, dry eyes and bring along some gentle wipes for a quick clean-up if needed—plane air tends to be extremely drying since it’s recycled. Keep your hydration game strong by drinking water throughout the journey.
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### **Once You Arrive**
If you’re stepping into a sunny destination, apply sunscreen to your face, neck, and hands *immediately* after exiting the airport. Don’t wait until you’re out in the blazing sun—protection should come first. Stick to SPF as part of your daily routine and reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Even on winter holidays, sunscreen is a must because the snow reflects UV rays, making sun protection just as critical.
Whatever you do, don’t let your skin burn, even slightly. Gradually build up your tan while keeping your skin safe. Sunglasses are another must-have for shielding your eyes from the sun, whether you’re on a beach or a snowy mountain.
Finally, stay hydrated! Drink lots of water—your skin will thank you—and go easy on the alcohol, which can leave you dehydrated. If you have sensitive skin, be mindful of the local tap water when washing your face. You might want to stick to the products you know and trust that you brought from home.
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Taking care of your skin while traveling doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning and consistency, you can enjoy your holiday while keeping your skin happy and healthy.