17 Tips to Keep Your Skin Healthy and Happy on Holiday
Sian Victoria © - Pre-holiday Skincare regime
Holiday Skincare Guide: How to Take Care of Your Skin Abroad
As summer is in full swing, many of us eagerly plan our next holiday. While we may be excited for some much-needed rest, our skin may not be as thrilled. Travel, changes in climate, and exposure to new environments can all take a toll on our skin, leaving it dry, dull, and prone to breakouts.
However, there are plenty of ways to keep your skin healthy and happy while on holiday. This skincare guide will share the best methods for maintaining your skin during your travels, ensuring you return with a glowing complexion and no neglectful skincare regrets.
So, whether you're heading to the beach, the mountains, or a lively city, follow these tips to keep your skin looking its best and make the most of your trip.
1. Give Your Skin a Pre-Trip Boost
One of the best ways to ensure your skin is ready for the journey ahead is to prepare it before you start your holiday. This proactive approach involves improving its condition to withstand environmental changes. Start with a deep cleanse to rid your pores of impurities, using steaming and a charcoal mask to draw out toxins. Next, exfoliate your skin gently to get rid of dead cells and create a smooth surface that is more receptive to hydrating products.
Next, apply an intensely nourishing face mask to moisturise your skin and provide essential nutrients, setting a healthy base for your travels. A few days before your trip, boost your hydration routine by using a richer moisturiser and adding a hydrating serum. This extra layer of hydration will help strengthen your skin's barrier, making it less susceptible to the drying effects of air travel and different climates.
In addition, increasing your water intake and ensuring your diet is rich in vitamins and antioxidants can complement your external skincare regimen, providing your skin with a holistic boost. Taking a break from makeup can also benefit your skin, allowing it to breathe and reset, minimising the risk of breakouts.
Following these pre-trip skincare steps will make your skin more vibrant, plump, and resilient, no matter where your travels take you. This holistic approach to skincare highlights the importance of preparation, hydration, and detoxification, ensuring that you arrive with a radiant base ready to handle new environments. This will allow you to enjoy every moment of your holiday without any skin-related distractions.
2. Think of Your Skin When You Do Your Makeup
When you're excited about the holidays, it's easy to apply too much makeup in pursuit of the perfect look. However, it’s essential to consider how this can affect your skin, especially in different climates. Choosing makeup products with moisturising benefits can give your skin an extra hydration boost.
I've found that using a hydrating primer, CC concealers, and a BB foundation significantly improves my skin's appearance. They give my skin a smooth base while nourishing it and provide excellent coverage while being light and kinder to my skin. These Colour-Correcting sticks and Blemish Balms have more skin-friendly ingredients than standard foundations, so they are the better options when on holiday.
While it's tempting to layer on foundation for full coverage, applying it more lightly lets your skin breathe, which lowers the chance of clogged pores and breakouts. When removing eye makeup, I recommend using oil-based cleansers. They effortlessly dissolve waterproof mascara and eyeliners without the need for harsh rubbing. I prefer micellar water for the rest of the face because its cleansing is gentle yet effective at keeping my skin calm and clear.
Lastly, a word of caution about active ingredients such as products with Retin-A, salicylic acid, or AHAs: their use should be limited to nighttime routines. These potent ingredients, while highly beneficial for skin renewal and clarity, increase sensitivity to the sun. Therefore, using them only at night can avoid unintended sun damage and allow you to enjoy your holiday with peace of mind and a radiant complexion.
3. Stay Hydrated Inside and Out
Hydration is essential to keep your skin supple and radiant, especially during holidays. Drinking enough water is crucial, but it is also necessary to hydrate your skin externally. Investing in a quality moisturiser suited to your skin type can create a barrier that locks in moisture, combating the effects of dry aeroplane cabins and hot, sunny climates.
When choosing a moisturiser, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which draw moisture from the air into your skin. Facial mists are also helpful throughout the day. They are refreshing in the heat and add an extra layer of hydration that revitalises your skin and prevents it from looking tired.
From personal experience, I have found that keeping a reusable water bottle on hand encourages me to drink more water, ensuring I stay hydrated inside and out. This simple habit has made a noticeable difference in my skin's texture and overall health, making it an essential part of my skincare routine while travelling.
4. Don’t Skimp on Sunscreen
It's essential to guard your skin from damaging UV radiation, no matter where you spend your holiday. An SPF isn’t just for vacation; sunscreen is also necessary for daily home use, sunny beach days, and any outdoor activity, whether skiing or city exploring.
Rub a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF generously on all exposed skin, including often forgotten areas like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of feet. Reapply every two hours or more often if you're sweating or swimming.
Many people grab sunscreen from the store, but picking one that matches your skin type can significantly improve your health. For those like me with sensitive skin, go for mineral suntan lotion containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, as these are unlikely to irritate. For oily skin, look for non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores.
From my experience, year-round, including sunscreen in my daily skincare routine has protected my skin and prevented premature signs of ageing. Making it a non-negotiable part of your holiday routine will ensure you return home with memories, not sun damage.
Plus, the peace of mind of knowing you’re safeguarding your skin’s health allows you to enjoy your holiday fully. Remember, a good sunscreen is the best travel companion your skin could ask for.
5. Keep to Your Routine as Much as Possible
Keeping up with your regular skincare routine while on vacation might seem demanding, but it's essential for your skin's health. Try to stick to your usual cleansing, toning, and moisturising routine, even while travelling. Your skin will appreciate the consistency.
If packing space is limited, consider using travel-sized versions of your favourite products or transferring them into smaller containers. Packing multi-purpose beauty items, such as rose water as a toner and cooling spray, can be very helpful. It saves space and ensures you don't skip your routine during holidays.
It's tempting to skip your skincare routine for a few extra minutes of sleep or adventure, but sticking to it as much as possible can prevent skin issues after your holiday. Additionally, it's a small act of self-care that can keep you grounded no matter where you are in the world.
6. Pack With the Weather in Mind
When packing for your holiday, it's essential to tailor your skincare selection to the climate of your destination. Choose lightweight, breathable skincare products for sunny locations and pack high SPF sunscreen and soothing gel, such as aloe vera, for sun exposure. Additionally, bring wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses for additional protection.
In dry environments, your skin will require more intense hydration to keep it balanced and comfortable. Alternatively, you'll need more nourishing products to combat dry air in colder places. Essential items include a heavier moisturiser, hydrating serum, lip balm, and hand cream to protect against harsh winds and central heating.
Remember to pack any specific treatments for ongoing skin conditions regardless of destination. Adapting your skincare routine in this way will protect your skin and ensure a more enjoyable holiday experience, free from skin distress.
7. Have an In-Flight Skincare Regime
Building an effective in-flight skincare routine is essential for combatting the dry, recycled air on board, which can leave your skin dehydrated and tired-looking. Upon arrival, apply a layer of rich moisturiser to your face to keep your complexion hydrated and glowing. This will act as a barrier, locking in moisture and protecting against the cabin's dry air. An intense eye serum can work wonders in preventing under-eye bags and nourishing the delicate skin around your eyes.
Remember to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen if you're seated near a window. Even though you're inside, harmful UV rays can penetrate through the windows, posing a risk to your skin. To counteract the drying effect of the air conditioning, carry eye drops to relieve any discomfort and prevent redness.
Chapped lips are another common in-flight issue, so a good lip balm is indispensable. Keep it handy and reapply to maintain soft, moisturised lips throughout your flight.
A little refresh can make all the difference as you get closer to your destination. A hydrating facial mist followed by a light layer of moisturiser will revive your skin, and a tightening under-eye serum will give you that instant lift, ensuring you arrive looking well-rested and ready to start your holiday. Integrating these steps into your in-flight routine will protect your skin and enhance your overall travel experience, landing with a radiant and healthy complexion.
8. Eat Skin-Friendly Foods
Tucking into new foods on holiday can be enjoyable. However, it's necessary to consider your skin's nutritional needs among the indulgence. Incorporating skin-friendly foods into your diet is a great way to support your skin's health from the inside out.
Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, green leafy vegetables, and almonds can shield your skin against environmental damage and promote a radiant glow. Omega-3 fatty acids can be consumed from salmon and other fish and seeds, such as flaxseeds, to help hydrate the skin and maintain its elasticity, thus combating dryness and fine lines.
I have experienced the benefits of including vitamin C-rich foods like oranges and kiwis in my holiday diet. Not only does vitamin C support and strengthen the immune system, but it is also essential for synthesising collagen, aiding in skin repair and regeneration.
Similarly, hydration is not solely about drinking water; consuming water-rich foods like cucumbers, strawberries, and melons can provide an additional hydration boost to your skin, keeping it plump and hydrated even on the go and enhancing your skin's natural glow.
By mindfully picking meals that offer these skin-enhancing benefits, you're treating your palette and providing your skin with the nourishment it needs to look and feel its best while on holiday. It's a win-win approach that allows you to appreciate the flavours of your destination while keeping your skin in peak condition when it's out of its comfort zone.
Sian Victoria © - Sunbathing, One Suite Hotel, Dubrovnik
9. Consume Probiotics Before Travelling
Preparing your body and skin for the environmental change is ideal before going on a holiday. One beneficial tip is to include probiotics in your routine before travelling. Probiotics, also known as 'good' bacteria, are essential for maintaining gut health, directly impacting our skin's condition. A healthy gut can result in clearer and more radiant skin by reducing inflammation and the occurrence of breakouts.
Starting a probiotic supplement a few weeks before your visit can help toughen your digestive system, immunity, and metabolism, potentially preventing travel-related digestive issues and food-related illnesses. Moreover, probiotics offer benefits beyond digestion by enhancing your skin's natural barrier, protecting it against environmental pollutants and stressors encountered during your travels.
Adding probiotic feminine supplements to my pre-travel routine has reduced my travel anxieties and significantly improved my skin's resilience in various climates. Whether facing the dry air of a plane cabin or the humidity of a tropical environment, I've noticed a marked difference in how my skin reacts and recovers.
If you're considering adding probiotics to your pre-travel regimen, discussing with a healthcare provider to take the right strain that suits your body’s needs is wise. This straightforward step can make a big difference in your overall health and ensure your skin remains healthy and glowing.
10. Seek Shade During Peak Sun Hours
I recommend seeking shade during the peak sun hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. These times are when the sun's beams are most intense. This is a simple yet effective strategy to protect your skin. During these hours, the UV index is at its highest, significantly increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
To minimise exposure, choose indoor activities or find shelter under a canopy, tree, or umbrella if you spend time at the beach or pool. From my experiences, I have learned to plan sightseeing tours early, either later in the afternoon or early in the morning, to avoid the intense sun and enjoy the perks of less crowded attractions.
Donning protective apparel, such as wide-brim sun hats, long-sleeved shirts, and UV-blocking sunglasses, can shield your skin and eyes from harmful UV rays. These simple changes in schedule and wardrobe can significantly reduce your skin's exposure to the sun, helping to prevent premature ageing and maintain your skin's health.
Remember, you can still enjoy the holiday sun without compromising your skin’s well-being.
11. Treat Your Skin After Sun Exposure
After a day spent soaking up the sun, your skin needs gentle care to repair and rejuvenate. Sun exposure, even with sunscreen, can lead to dehydration and irritation. A soothing after-sun lotion or gel enriched with aloe vera can do wonders in calming and hydrating your skin.
Aloe vera, known for its healing properties, provides a cooling relief that's particularly refreshing when stored in the fridge before application. I've found that applying a generous amount of after-sun lotion soothes sunburn and helps maintain my tan longer by preventing peeling.
Another helpful step is to take a cool shower or bath to lower your skin’s temperature and remove any chlorine, salt, or sand that could worsen dryness. Pat your skin dry, and while it’s still slightly damp, apply your after-sun product to lock in moisture.
Include a face mask or serum containing hyaluronic acid for extra hydration in your evening skincare routine. This super ingredient can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, deeply moisturising your skin and helping to repair any sun-induced damage.
From personal experience, I've also found that drinking plenty of water after a day in the sun is critical for rehydrating from the inside out. My skin always looks and feels better when I keep my water intake up, highlighting the importance of hydration for recovery. Remember, your post-sun skincare routine significantly affects how your skin recovers and looks after a holiday in the sun.
12. Pay Attention to Your Eyes and Lips
Your eyes and lips deserve as much care as the rest of your face, especially when you're on holiday. Your eye area's delicate skin is especially vulnerable to dehydration and sun damage, which can result in early ageing symptoms like wrinkles and fine lines. I always pack a nourishing eye cream with antioxidants and hyaluronic acid. Applying a small dab gently around the eyes in the morning and at night helps to keep this area supple and bright.
On the other hand, lips often bear the brunt of harsh weather conditions and can become chapped and sore if neglected. I've learned that a good lip balm with SPF is essential for a holiday. Reapplying regularly, especially after swimming or eating, ensures my lips stay moisturised and protected from UV rays. For the evenings, I switch to a richer, hydrating lip mask to provide an intensive treatment that repairs any daytime damage.
I've realised that paying attention to these often-overlooked areas enhances my overall look and adds extra care to my skincare routine, making me feel pampered and protected. Who doesn’t love the feeling of soft, plump lips and bright, rested eyes to complement their holiday glow?
13. Stay Active but Be Kind to Your Skin
Staying active is integral to a healthy holiday, offering physical and mental benefits. However, sweating and exposure to different environments can challenge your skin. To keep your skin happy while remaining active, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics for your workout gear to minimise irritation and allow your skin to breathe.
Always cleanse your skin gently after exercising to remove sweat and bacteria, preventing clogged pores and breakouts. Opt for a mild, hydrating cleanser that won't strip your skin of its natural oils.
I've learned the importance of applying a light, non-comedogenic moisturiser post-workout, which helps to replenish hydration without causing congestion. When engaging in outdoor activities, don't forget to reapply your broad-spectrum SPF to protect against UV damage, a step I regard as non-negotiable regardless of the season.
My routine includes carrying biodegradable facial wipes or rose water in my bag for a quick cleanse when a shower isn't immediately available, a handy tip for those on-the-go moments. Additionally, incorporating cooling products, such as aloe vera gel, can soothe the skin after sun exposure, a common occurrence if you're hiking or playing beach sports.
By following these simple steps, I've kept my skin clear and healthy, ensuring that staying active on holiday improves my well-being without compromising my skin's condition.
14. Manage Stress for Skin Health
Holidays are meant to be a break from the chaos of everyday life; however, we often succumb to travel-related stress, which can directly impact our skin health. Stress causes cortisol to be released, a hormone that can increase oil production, resulting in breakouts and inflammation.
You must learn how to handle stress to protect your skin and overall health. Simple meditation and deep-breathing exercises can significantly lower stress levels, promoting a calmer mindset and healthier skin. During my travels, I've made it a habit to start each day with a few minutes of mindfulness, focusing on the sensation of my breath and the sounds around me. This routine helps centre my thoughts and sets a peaceful tone for the day.
Integrating physical activities such as yoga or a gentle walk can alleviate stress. These exercises improve circulation, which is fantastic for your skin, and lift your mood and energy levels. By actively managing stress through these mindful practices, you're protecting your skin and enhancing your overall holiday experience, ensuring you return home truly refreshed and with a radiant, stress-free complexion.
15. Don’t Forget to Moisturise Before Bed
Wrapping up your day with a moisturising routine before bed ensures your skin remains hydrated and nourished overnight. After being exposed to the sun, wind, or air conditioning throughout the day, your skin needs to recover. I've made it a habit to apply a richer, more intensive moisturiser at night compared to what I use during the day. This shift caters to my skin's natural repair cycle, which is most active while we sleep.
Night creams or overnight masks, rich in ingredients such as ceramides and peptides, work wonders in reinforcing the skin's barrier, promoting elasticity, and reducing the appearance of fine lines. I also focus on areas that are easy to overlook, like the neck and décolletage, ensuring they receive the same level of care as my face. This extra step has made a noticeable difference in maintaining an even skin tone and texture.
Remember, your evening skincare ritual is not just about the products you use but also about taking a moment for yourself. This practice not only aids in skin recovery but also helps you settle down and prepares you for a restful sleep so you can wake up to soft, supple skin.
16. Take Skin-Loving Vitamins to Boost Skin Health
Including skin-loving vitamins in your daily routine can significantly improve your skin's health and appearance, especially during a holiday when your body encounters various stressors. Vitamins A, C, and E are potent antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage, increase collagen production and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
For example, Vitamin C, found abundantly in citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables, is not just for warding off colds—it's a critical ingredient for maintaining a radiant and resilient complexion. During my last holiday, I made it a point to pack a vitamin C serum, which I applied every morning. The difference was noticeable; my skin was brighter, and the usual holiday tan appeared more even.
Similarly, Vitamin E, available in nuts and seeds, acts as a moisturiser and aids skin healing, while Vitamin A (retinol) promotes skin renewal and reduces signs of ageing.
Don't overlook Vitamin D; although known for its role in bone health, it's also essential for skin repair and protection. I ensure my diet includes tofu, mushrooms and orange juice, which are vegan sources. Alternatively, fish and eggs are rich sources of Vitamin D, too, which supports your skin's immune system and helps prevent inflammation.
By consciously including these vitamins in your skincare and diet, you're not just treating your skin to a nutrient-rich feast but actively fortifying it against the rigours of travel and sun exposure. Trust me, it's a game-changer for keeping your skin glowing, whether getting around the urban jungle or lounging by the sea.
17. Treat any Skin Issues That May Worsen in Heat
When travelling to hot climates, it's essential to know that heat can worsen certain skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. From my experience with sensitive skin, I've learned how crucial it is to adapt my skincare routine to prevent these flare-ups.
Firstly, keeping your skincare routine light is essential. Choose gel-based or water-based products that won't clog pores or overwhelm your skin. I've noticed that using a light, soothing moisturiser can help prevent my skin from becoming excessively oily or dry, both of which can worsen with heat.
For those like me prone to acne, sweat and bacteria can cause breakouts. Using a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to wash my face twice daily has made all the difference, helping to remove impurities without stripping my skin of its natural oils.
Moisture and protection are essential for people with eczema or rosacea. I carry a soothing, hypoallergenic cream with ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile, which offer relief and reduce redness without irritating my skin further.
For those with psoriasis, managing the condition is essential when planning a holiday, as heat can make it worse. Non-invasive treatments like red light therapy can be helpful. This treatment uses light wavelengths to reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and support skin recovery. You may want to consider scheduling red light therapy sessions before your trip to minimise flare-ups and keep your skin healthy. Treating psoriasis with red light can be a practical and convenient way to manage symptoms so you can enjoy your holiday more comfortably and confidently.
Furthermore, obtaining shade during the hottest parts of the day and donning a wide-brim hat can protect sensitive areas of the skin from direct exposure, reducing the likelihood of flare-ups. In my experience, taking these proactive steps helps manage existing skin issues and leads to a more enjoyable and stress-free holiday.
To conclude
Remember these beauty tips for keeping your skin healthy and glowing while on holiday. Before your trip, start with a deep cleanse, gentle exfoliation, and intense hydration to prepare your skin. Use hydrating makeup, drink plenty of water, and apply sunscreen regularly. Stick to a consistent skincare routine, pack climate-appropriate products, and include skin-friendly foods and probiotics in your diet. These steps will help your skin combat the effects of travel and environmental changes, keeping it supple and radiant.
Stay hydrated inside and out during your holiday, use soothing after-sun products, and seek shade during peak sun hours. Pay attention to delicate areas like your eyes and lips, and stay active while wearing breathable fabrics. Manage stress through mindfulness and physical activities, and stick to your evening moisturising routine. Taking skin-loving vitamins and treating pre-existing skin issues will make sure your skin stays in top condition, letting you enjoy your travels without skin-related worries.
*SHOP THE POST
Ready to achieve that radiant holiday glow? Pack the beauty essentials with these must-have products: Protect your skin from the sun with a lightweight, broad-spectrum SPF. Keep your complexion hydrated with a refreshing facial mist. Indulge in a luxurious after-sun lotion for those long days by the pool. Don’t forget to pamper your eyes and lips. Pick a brightening collagen eye cream and a nourishing tinted lip balm. Finally, lock in moisture overnight with a rich, hydrating night cream.
