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With travel season just around the corner, many of us are eagerly anticipating our next adventure. However, as we start packing our bags, one question that often arises is how to adjust our skincare routine for travel, especially during this time of year.
Changes in weather, humidity, exposure to the sun, and other environmental factors can all affect our skin's health and appearance. Additionally, traveling often means a change in sleeping patterns, diet, and stress levels, which can also impact our skin. To ensure that your skin stays healthy and radiant throughout your travels, here are Haute Beauty expert's tips to consider:
The Skin Room | Medical Spa | Naples
It is always a good idea to adjust your skincare routines for travel throughout the year. Depending on where my client is traveling, I either add a few additional products to their routine or take a couple away. This is also extremely dependent on the person's skin. Exfoliating less and staying away from using topical Vitamin A (retinol, retinoic acid, Tretinoin, etc.) is typically where I start. Flying already dehydrates the skin and it's hard for the skin to adjust to the new climate quickly enough so using these types of products, can be counterproductive when traveling. However, hydration and moisturizers are something I recommend to help rebalance and keep the skin glowing.
For more information, visit The Skin Room's website or Instagram!
Dr. Anna Chacon | Skin | Miami, FL
- Increase your water intake by two liters per day for a month to boost skin hydration, and aim to consume half your body weight in ounces of water while traveling to maintain internal hydration and combat drying humidity levels.
- Extended days of travel might dry out the skin, but it's also crucial to keep the lips moisturized. I suggest using Vaseline or Aquaphor, two ointments (also known as ultra-moisturizing products) while traveling
- If you're traveling to a tropical location, it's essential to remember to pack sunscreen and a beach hat. It's also important to apply sunscreen when spending time in an airport or on a plane. You may not realize it, but you're even closer to the sun's ultraviolet rays on a flight, making it especially crucial to use sunscreen. Apply lightweight, moisturizing sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before leaving the house, and reapply every couple of hours. The tint in some sunscreens can also help to conceal any imperfections that may appear as a result of a long day of travel.
- While traveling, treat yourself to a sheet mask or facial mist. Giving your skin some attention when you're traveling is very acceptable. Bringing a moisturizing face mist and using it intermittently while traveling will keep skin hydrated.
- Avoid using hotel-provided skincare products, especially if you have sensitive skin, as they often contain scents and preservatives that could worsen dry skin issues associated with travel.
- Stick to your usual skincare routine while traveling by looking for sample-size versions of your staples, such as cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreen, and antioxidant serums. Avoid pouring skincare into travel-sized bottles, as many products require specific storage conditions to maintain their effectiveness. For example, vitamin C serums should be kept in a cold, dark location away from heat. However, basics like cleansers often work well in small bottles.
For more information, visit Dr. Chacon's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
The Biltmore Spa | Day Spa | Coral Gables, FL
If you have a trip planned, you should know that changes in climate, food, and water will affect your skin's appearance; it can become sensitive and show signs of discomfort, tightness, or irritation.
Especially if you travel by plane, the dryness of the air, the altitude, and the pressure will make your skin look dull, dehydrated, and less supple. Humidity drops by up to 8% in the cabin, and your skin needs levels higher than 20% to feel and look good. So, how to arrive at your destination with an impeccable complexion and maintain it? We recommend putting together a prevention plan as well as a simplified and effective skincare routine.
It is important to start a few days before your departure by exfoliating your skin and ensuring your hydration level is optimal. Dehydration is the biggest threat while traveling, to avoid this, drink plenty of water and use a rich moisturizing mask the night before your trip. Then, try to keep as much of your skin-care routine as possible by grabbing travel-sized versions of your products.
Ideally, you want to always bring a gentle toner to restore your skin’s comfort and PH, a nice hydrating serum and moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid, and an emollient such as shea butter, lip balm, and SPF. Try to look for lighter textures so your skin is not suffocated. If you have space in your luggage, a few hydrating sheet masks (preferably bio-cellulose ones) would be ideal for a refreshed look.
Finally, try to skip any salty foods, alcohol, or caffeine since these will dehydrate your skin even further and cause unwanted puffiness. And above all, the most important thing that we can suggest is to have fun and enjoy yourself! A positive attitude will boost your hydration and decrease inflammation. Your skin will look balanced, plumped, and glowing!
For more information, visit Biltmore Spa's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Alonso Martin | Medical Spa | Miami Beach, FL
- Keep it simple: Focus on the essentials. Stick to your usual products and use travel-size containers on your trip.
- Hydrate from the inside out: Travel with a hydrating powder that can be easily added to a water bottle. My favorite is HIGH-DRATION Powder from HigherDose. I discovered them at Dave Asprey’s Biohacking Conference last year in Beverly Hills, CA. It is a unique blend of magnesium and marine algae minerals with the ultra-hydrating duo of watermelon and coconut powders for the ultimate recovery and glowing powerhouse.
- Take care of your skin during your flight: Hydrate with an ultra-fine micro-droplet mist to instantly refresh makeup & soothe skin. My favorite is Evian Natural Mineral Water Facial Spray for its ability to hydrate, tone, and refreshen skin throughout the day.
- Watch for sun intensity. Use a mineral-based sunscreen. My favorite is Sunforgettable® Total Protection™ Face Shield Glow SPF 50 from Colorscience. Known for its pearlescent illuminating glow, this sunscreen is hydrating and gives you a filter look. Stay in the shade when possible.
For more information, visit Dr. Martin's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Refine Health | Medical Aesthetics | Coral Gables, FL & Miami, FL
Patients can adjust their skincare routine during their travels with a few simple accommodations. First and foremost, knowing the details of the climate changes during your travels are of utmost importance. If the travel plans include a Caribbean beach resort it is important to pack skincare to protect against UV damage such as vitamin C serum and UV Sunscreen. If the plans include harsh elements such as snow and frost it is important to pack hydrating products such as a thick moisturizer, eye cream, and hydrating masks to repair the skin's epidermal surface.
All in all, packing for your travels should come with adjustments to the activities and weather of your destination to best protect and preserve your skin barrier. It doesn’t hurt to throw in some sample sizes too as skincare items can take up some extra travel room! Refine Heath's must-haves (and non-negotiables) for vacation are sunscreen, facial mist spray, and blotting sheets to maintain your ideal skincare regimen!
For more information, visit Refine Health's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Bertha Baum | Skin | Miami, FL
When traveling it's important to adjust your skincare routine to account for changes in climate and environment. Here are some tips for adjusting your skincare routine for spring travel:
- Keep it simple: Stick to the essentials, such as a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Obviously, Vitamin C will be a great anti-oxidant and more protection for the sun, also select travel-sized products so that it is easier to carry them.
- Switch to lighter formulas: As the weather warms up, you may want to switch to lighter skincare formulas that are less heavy or oily. Look for moisturizers and sunscreens that are labeled as "lightweight" or "oil-free."
- Consider your destination: Different travel destinations may require different skincare routines. For example, if you're traveling to a humid climate, you may need to adjust your skincare routine to account for increased sweat and oil production.
- Don't forget to hydrate: Traveling can be dehydrating, which can have a negative impact on your skin. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day as well to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Remember, everyone's skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have specific skin concerns or conditions, it's always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional before making any major changes to your routine.
For more information, visit Dr. Baum's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Amir Mortazavi | Medical Spa | Orange County, CA
As we are getting closer to summer after a long pandemic, the joy and the thrill of traveling, whether domestically or abroad is bubbling inside each and every one of us. But unfortunately, sometimes our skin doesn’t match our joy and excitement when we arrive in a new country or location.
I'm sure many of you have experienced a breakout right after or even during your flight en route to your final destination. Or even noticed the change in texture and dehydrated skin after a long flight. That's because depressurized, extremely dry airplane cabins draw moisture out of your skin. Due to the dry environment on board, your skin can potentially dry out or even develop pimples. So how do you prevent having less than flawless skin when you arrive? Follow this advice:
- Hydrate inside and out. Sounds simple and easy but I’m sure many of us forget. It's a good idea to drink plenty of water the day before your travel and consume foods high in antioxidants. Take a refillable water bottle or make sure to purchase a large bottle of H2O prior to boarding to stay hydrated during the flight.
- Moisturize! Moisturize! Moisturize! Make sure your skin is hydrated days before. A good moisturizer is key to a great skincare routine not just for traveling but to look your perfect best. I also recommend a gentle scrub and exfoliation the night before to remove all the dead skin (you should be doing this a couple of times a week anyways).
- Avoid skincare products with Retinols, Hydroquinones, Vitamin C, harsh acids, and antibiotics when you are in the sun. Stop using them five to seven days before your trip. These ingredients can cause a phototoxic reaction, resulting in redness, burns, and pigmentation. And don't forget to use SPF 35!
- If you are carrying your skincare products with you on board that the products don’t exceed 3.4 ounces (100 ml)as the TSA has a maximum limit on liquids of 3.4 ounces (100 ml).
For more information, visit Dr. Mortazavi's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Bellagena Med Spa | Day Spa | Bradenton, FL
Here are some quick tips for adjusting your skincare routine while traveling this summer:
- Pack lightweight, travel-friendly products: Consider travel-sized versions of your favorite products or invest in reusable travel-friendly containers. Cadence is a great option.
- Consider the climate: Hot and humid destinations may require a lighter moisturizer, but if you're traveling to a drier climate, consider more hydrating serums or moisturizers.
- Don't forget sun protection: No matter the time of year, using a broad-spectrum SPF of 35 or higher is important. Reapply every two hours.
- Stay hydrated: On a plane, water can evaporate almost 2.5 times faster than on land. To help hydrate your skin, consider leaving a toner damp on the skin and following up with a serum/moisturizer for your skin type, applying a serum underneath your moisturizer, or applying a hydrating gel mask as part of your routine.
- Keep it simple: Focus on essentials, such as cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection, and save more complicated treatments for when you're back home.
- Use Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps fight free radicals and UV damage from the sun. It can help reduce inflammation, boost the effectiveness of sunscreen, and inhibit the overproduction of melanin, which helps to even out skin tone and diminish hyperpigmentation that might be exacerbated by the sun.
Remember to talk to your Esthetician or skincare professional for personalized advice. Enjoy your travels and take time to relax!
For more information, visit Bellagena Med Spa's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
