Summer travel is in full swing and while it feels great to be off to explore different parts of the world and out of our day-to-day routines, it’s been a while since taking care of our skin while on-the-go was part of our normal repertoire.
Use our skin-loving timeline to prep and pack for your next voyage. Our practical advice is inspired by Dr. Dolder’s recent trip to visit her home country of Australia. Several stopovers and 29 hours in a mask and can wreak havoc on your skin!
Before You Go: Skincare Pack and Prep
As you embark on your travels, start with your skin off on a clean slate. Exfoliate with an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) a few days prior to travel. Treatment with an AHA helps to increase skin turnover and remove debris. Eliminating a layer of skin cells makes your skin more vulnerable to penetration from UVA and UVB rays from the sun, so be sure to remember your SPF!
Pro Tip: For optimal exfoliation, book a gentle Chemical Peel two weeks prior to travel. Our Glytone Peels are gentle and excellent for patients who want brighter, more radiant looking skin.
With record travel numbers this summer, canceled flights are inevitable. Be prepared and pack your skincare essentials in your carry-on for easy access and in the chance you may not get to your checked bag. A travel size serum and moisturizer will do the trick!
Pro Tip: Moisten cotton pads with Micellar Water (Dr. Dolder swears by ISDN) and put in a zip lock bag in your carryon. This will fare much better for cleansing your skin than face wipes and can be easily put in a carryon – liquid requirements be darned!
Skincare On the Road and in the Skies
On the day of travel, we recommend applying a Hyaluronic Acid serum to freshly cleansed skin to prevent dryness (Neocutis Hyalis is our go-to). Follow the serum with a moisturizer that contains ceramides (we like Alastin Ultra Nourishing Moisturizer ) to lock moisture in as a protective barrier.
Pro Tip: Don’t wear makeup on the plane. If you’re wearing a mask (and we recommend that you do), board the aircraft with freshly cleansed, moisturized skin. Wearing makeup under a mask, regardless of the amount of hours, can clog pores and cause breakouts.
Stay hydrated! Our purse is always packed with a travel sized face mist whether we are home or away. On a daily basis, mists with hyaluronic acid and the right antioxidants help protect your skin from pollutants that can cause the skin to break down and begin to age. When we travel, using a face mist throughout the day is not only beneficial to the skin, it’s a great pick-me-up! Be sure to choose a mist that does not contain alcohol, as this is drying to your skin. And don’t forget to drink tons of water!
Pro Tip: Add a packet of electrolyte powder to your carryon. Easily pour it into your water bottle for extra nutrients. Christina, our Physicians Assistant, recommends LMNT packets for healthy hydration on-the-go!
Bon Voyage!
