Travelling can be an exhilarating adventure, but it often takes a toll on your skin. From dry airplane air to unpredictable weather changes, maintaining a radiant complexion while on the move can feel like a challenge. Whether you’re jet-setting to a tropical paradise or navigating a cross-country road trip, your skin deserves as much attention as your itinerary. We chatted to Dermal Therapist (and founder of Dolce Vita Skin Clinic) Vita Catanzariti to find out her expert tips and essential products to ensure your travel skincare is on point, no matter where the journey takes you.
Planning Ahead
Before you even step out the door, preparation is key. Here’s how to pack your skincare efficiently.
Choose Travel-Sized Products
Many brands like RATIONALE and Biologique Recherche offer travel-sized versions of their products, which saves space in your bag (especially if you are only taking carry-on and need to stay below the 100ml limit).
Use Multi-Use Products
Opt for products that serve multiple purposes. For example, the Dr NC CC Crème with SPF 30+ can double as your sun protection and foundation for that holiday glow. Catanzariti also recommended the RATIONALE #4 Cleanser, as it can also be used as a hydrating mask for when people are time poor but need to give their skin a little more love.
Organise Your Bag
Use a toiletry bag with compartments to keep your skincare organised, and don’t pack dirty items like shoes near your skincare. Bringing a silk pillowcase is also a great item that takes up minimal space, but prevents breakouts caused from sleeping on lots of different pillows on your travels.
Keep Hydration a Priority
Travelling by plane can dehydrate your skin due to the drying recirculated air. Here are some ways to keep your skin hydrated.
Drink Water
Stay hydrated from the inside out. Aim to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Always carry a reusable water bottle wherever you go!
Hydrating Products
Catanzariti’s recommends the Knesko Amethyst Hydrating Collagen Mask for when your skin is in need of some hydration. Along with dryness, som people may experience puffiness or swelling due to the changes in altitude. To combat this, place the Knesko Pink Quartz Antioxidant Eye Mask on underneath the face mask, or afterwards, for a freshen up and de-puff after a long flight. Mask and moisturise before, during and after the flight for best results.
Maintain Your Routine
While it’s tempting to skip your routine while on the go, consistency is crucial. So much changes when you travel – your diet and sleep schedule being the biggest ones – and that can be stressful on the skin. Maintaining a normal, simple, routine with your skincare is one way to help support your skin barrier while away.
Stick to Necessities
Even if you’re short on time, ensure you follow the essential steps: cleansing (double cleansing at night), moisturising, and sun protection. Catanzariti recommends the RATIONALE #4 Cleanser, Biologique Recherche P50 Lotion, iS Clinical GeneXC Vitamin C Serum, and your favourite moisturiser/SPF. It’s important to feed your skin the ingredients and medicine it needs to thrive, no matter where you are.
Adjust for the Climate
Different climates can affect your skin. If you’re travelling to a humid area, you may want to use a lighter moisturiser. In dry or cold climates, opt for richer creams to combat moisture loss.
SPF is Vital
No matter where you are going in the world, SPF is your must-have for everyday use.
Always Use Sunscreen
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days or during winter. If you’re going to be outdoors, reapply every two hours. Catanzariti recommends the SIMKA Mineral Milk 50+ SPF for its lightweight feel and lovely glow it gives to the skin.
Listen to Your Skin
Travel can sometimes trigger unexpected skin issues. Here’s how to respond.
Identify Triggers
Be aware of factors that might cause skin reactions, such as new products, changes in diet, or environmental factors. If you notice any irritation, it may be best to simplify your routine to a gentle cleanser and moisturiser until it feels back to normal.
Spot Treatment
Keep a spot treatment for breakouts or irritation handy. One hero product is the Biologique Recherche Complexe Iribiol, which is full of salicylic acid to control oil and breakouts. Press it directly on breakouts each night, and watch the spots disappear!
Post-Travel Care
Once you return home, your skin may need some extra TLC.
Deep Cleanse
After travelling, your skin may accumulate dirt, oil, and pollutants. Hydrafacials are a great way to restore that glow and give the skin a good refresh.
Exfoliate
Sometimes when returning from a trip your skin can feel a little dull. Skin Needling is a great treatment to boost blood flow and promote collagen production in the skin – bringing it back to life. If you are time poor, the iS Clinical Active Peel is a just as effective alternative for an at-home reset.
External and Internal Factors
Skin concerns can not only be treated from the outside. Sleep, diet and stress play a huge role in the overall health of your skin. If your gut microbiome is not healthy, then your skin will suffer. It is easy to get carried away on a holiday, but try to prioritise eating clean, healthy foods and drinking lots of water – your body will thank you for it.
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Learn more about Dermal Therapist Vita Catanzariti and her skin clinic Dolce Vita Skin below.
