How To Take Care of Your Skin While Traveling

Last updated on December 14, 2015

In today’s world, traveling is common for work and pleasure, and whether you are headed to a sunny destination for a holiday or spending a week out of town for a business trip. It can be easy to neglect your skin care regime during the hustle and bustle of your busy schedule. It is extremely important to take care of your skin while traveling, whether it is when you are on the plane, staying in your hotel or relaxing on the beach. Here are some easy tips to keep your skin fresh and healthy while traveling.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential when traveling to warm climates and spending time on the beach. Regardless of whether or not you spent some time in the tanning booth or out in the sun to create a base tan before heading out on your vacation. It is important to remember that the sun rays can be much stronger in places like Mexico, Florida, and the Islands and your skin may not be prepared for the intense rays. It is always a good idea to get a base tan going before heading out on vacation, especially if you are heading south during the winter months. There are “safe” tanning beds that use minimal UV light and filters that allow for a healthy glow without the health risks. Even so, once you arrive at your destination, it is important to slather on the sunscreen and wear a hat while on the beach to avoid a severe sunburn that can put a damper on your holiday. Your sunscreen should contain natural ingredients such as copper and zinc oxide. Using a sunscreen with at least 15 SPF will allow for a few sun rays to penetrate the skin while protecting the dermal layer. Vacations are meant to have fun in the sun, but it is important to remember that moderation is everything. By gradually building up your melanin levels, you can achieve a healthy glow without the burn, and enjoy your vacation.

Hydration on the Plane

Plane travel can dry out the skin, especially in travelers on long flights. It is always a good idea to pack a “hydration kit” in your carryon bag that consists of moisturizer, water, baby wipes, and moisture spray. Your moisturizer should be lightweight and should be applied every three hours. Moisturizers containing emollient ingredients such as Vitamin E and aloe vera will allow for a light refreshing of the skin without creating a thick buildup. Vitamin E is known for its healing properties and works well to penetrate the skin deeply. Aloe vera cools the skin and contains high levels of antioxidants that allow for light refreshing of the skin while flying. Bottled water is a must on an airplane, as you will have instant access to hydration whenever you need it. It is important to note that most airports do not allow bottled water in the security checkpoint, but you can purchase a bottle once you have checked in. Stay away from coffee and sodas, as the caffeine in these drinks can causes dry skin. Baby wipes that contain natural ingredients such as chamomile and tea tree oil work well to remove dirt and freshen up the skin prior to landing. Moisture spray allows for instant moisture with a few quick pumps and is available in travel sized bottles. It is always a good idea to use a moisture spray that contains aloe vera and spring water, as aloe vera is cool and refreshing, and spring water is the perfect natural hydrating ingredient.

Lip Moisture

When traveling via airplane or going to dry climates, it is easy for the lips to become dehydrated while trying to adapt to a change in weather and air pressure. Keeping your lips hydrated and moisturized will help to prevent chapping and dryness. It is always a good idea to choose a lip balm that contains Vitamin E, as Vitamin E works well to lock in moisture and keep your lips lines soft and supple. If traveling to a warm, dry climate, it is also a good idea to make sure that your lip balm contains SPF. SPF will help to protect your lips from sunburn and damage from the elements. Re-apply your lip balm every few hours when on the plane, and apply liberally when out in the sun.

In Conclusion

It is easy to neglect your skin when traveling, as busy travel schedules and the excitement of a holiday vacation can easily cause distractions. By taking a few simple steps prior to your travels such as preparing a “hydration pack” and following a skin care regime while, on the plane, you can avoid dryness from the recycled air. Creating a base tan and gradually introducing your skin to the stronger rays while spending time at the beach or outdoors will help minimize sun damage and burning. By taking a few simple precautions and treating your skin with care while traveling, you will be able to enjoy your travels and keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

References:

William D. James, Timothy Berger, Dirk Elston (2011). Andrew’s Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology

Author Bio:

Meighan Sembrano has done PhD in personal care and fitness. She mainly focuses on improving understanding and management of health and beauty. She has written approximately 200 research articles and she is the leading contributor of beauty industry. You can follow her on Twitter, Facebook and Google+ for daily inspiration.