Whether you're taking a plane, train or automobile, you've likely planned at least one more getaway before the year's end. And as we all have probably realized by now, traveling in any form can take its toll on your skin. Here, tips to ensure your complexion stays soft, supple and glowing no matter where you are.
Quench Your Complexion
Thanks to the low humidity on a plane, flying and dehydration go hand in hand, so by the time you reach your destination, your skin is parched. "Power hydrate on any flight that's over 45 minutes," says celebrity esthetician Scott-Vincent Borba. "Since you can't bring large bottles on the plane, pack some water-rich fruits like oranges and take advantage of the water offered in flight." Drink at least a liter of water on board to help the vitamins absorb and circulate in your system for a longer period, Borba says. Load up on vitamins E and A to make sure skin stays moist, as well as vitamin C and zinc to boost skin resilience.
And use hydrating products like Dermalogica Skin Kit—Dry, which is a travel-ready collection formulated to nourish and repair. It comes with a conditioning facial cleanser, hydrating toner, intensive facial moisturizer and gentle exfoliant to treat dry skin while you travel and throughout your getaway.
SPF vs. UPF
Sun protection factor is crucial year-round, especially for your face. A kit like Exuviance Introductory Collection Kits for Sensitive/Dry Skin not only contains SPF but also skincare necessities such as cleansing cream, toner, night cream and an eye treatment.
If you're sailing, cruising or traveling in a convertible, even if you're wearing long sleeves, clothing doesn't guard against the sun unless it has an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) greater than 20, says dermatologist Vermén M. Verallo-Rowell, M.D. The UPF is the level of protection provided by the garment from the sun's ultraviolet rays. For example, a garment with UPF 20 only allows 1/20th of the sun's UV radiation to pass through it. "If you plan on traveling outdoors for an extended period of time, it's wise to apply sunscreen underneath lightweight clothes, particularly if you have sun-sensitive skin," Verallo-Rowell says.
Down with Pesky Breakouts
"Dirt accumulates on the skin after being outdoors for long periods of time, so it's important to clean your skin frequently when traveling about," says Verallo-Rowell. Use a cleanser appropriate for your skin type. Boscia Normal to Oily Kit is the perfect take-along, travel-approved-size collection. It contains everything you need for washing away dirt and oil, including a gel cleanser, balancing facial tonic, oil-free moisturizer and a nighttime recharging moisturizer. And, if you decide to stay at your destination longer (why not?), you'll be covered: The supply is enough for 30 days.
In Case of Emergency
Skin is fickle, and you never know how it will react to different climates, altitudes or environments. To cover your bases, you can't go wrong with an all-in-one kit with every skincare product under the sun. Philosophy Mini Hope Essentials Value Set is the ideal jet set. It includes a facial moisturizer for all skin types, cuticle cream, eye cream for dark circles, puffiness and lines and a sample of tinted moisturizer.