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It’s easy to have a solid skin care regimen in place when there’s an arsenal of products right at your fingertips; but vacations shake things up a bit, often causing that wellness routine to slide once you’re away from home.
Yet, different climates, airline travel, and the stress of hopping from place to place can do a number on your complexion, making good skincare more important than ever. Here are some wise rules of the road to keep your face in check:
Stick with a familiar cleanser: “An abrupt change in cleansers can actually disrupt skin’s acid balance and cause a vacation breakout, says Erin Welch, MD, professor of dermatology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
Follow the hands-off rule: According to Dr. Welch, touching your face while you travel can result in skin problems from bacteria you may have picked up en route. If you must apply makeup in a plane or airport, be sure to start by cleansing your hands with a good dollop of antibacterial sanitizer.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: The recycled, dehumidified cabin air of a plane is notoriously drying, so be sure to apply a rich day cream and eye cream before, during and after your flight. (Tip: Rub the excess into your hands.) If you’re heading to a warm, dry climate, maintain that routine and drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated from the inside out.
Invest in travel-size versions of your regular skin care products: Your skin will thank you for avoiding poor quality, drying, overly fragrant hotel soaps and lotions; plus, you’ll have manageable amounts of the items you can’t do without—like an SPF 30 sunscreen.
Consider a facial spray: “Spritzing water on your skin before applying a moisturizer will give the humectant water to pull into the skin rather than the other way around,” explains Dr. Baumann.
Bask in the break: Since stress plays a key role in the health of your skin, taking time to relax and unwind is just as important as the products you use on your face every day. After all, a much-needed vacation may be the best medicine money can buy.
— By Denice Schwind, PA-C
Denice Schwind, PA-C has specialized in medical and cosmetic dermatology since 2004 and is an industry leader in skin care and anti-aging. Feel free to submit questions directly to Denice at denice@purskinclinic.com.
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