Lots of people avoid taking lots of skincare items on vacation. But this overlooks the fact that our skin needs care even when we’re travelling. This is just one of the many skincare mistakes that we make. Straying from your regular skincare routine can result in all sorts of issues, from dry skin to bad breakouts. Here are some common travel skincare mistakes people make and how to avoid them.
Skipping the sunscreen
One of the most common skincare mistakes people make is to skip their sunscreen. No matter how pleasant or cold your destination, or how rainy the weather, don’t underestimate the damage that UVA and UVB rays will do to your skin. Apart from leading to dark spots and wrinkles, it can also cause skin cancer. It is recommended that you use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, and reapply it every two hours (or immediately after swimming).
Not stocking up on travel-sized versions of your regular products
When packing for a vacation, there isn’t usually too much room in your suitcase. So, it’s likely that you’ll be leaving lots of things behind. To ensure that your regular skincare products don’t get the same treatment, you can either shop for travel-sized versions of these products or put some of them into smaller travel-sized bottles.
Not preparing your skin before and after your flight
If you’re going to be on a long-haul flight, either avoid using makeup or remove it once you’re onboard. It can clog your pores and create loads of problems. Additionally, the air on airplanes can be extremely dry so be sure to moisturise well throughout the flight and again once you get off.
Buying new products just for your trip
A vacation is a perfect opportunity to see new places and try new things, but it’s not the right time to try new skincare products. If you need to buy smaller bottles of any of your products, stick to established brands and products. The aim is to adapt your regular skincare routine, not to reinvent it altogether. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin, avoid the free hotel soaps and moisturisers as they often don’t feature a complete list of ingredients on the packaging and can wreak havoc on your skin.
Forgetting to adapt your routine too your destination
Always remember to alter your skincare routine based on your destination. Are you travelling to someplace hot or a cold destination? Or maybe you’re going to a tropical country that’s extremely humid. Think about tailoring your skincare routine based on the climate. In general:
- For hot and humid destinations (ex. tropical locations or beaches) use lightweight products that won’t clog pores as well as water-based cleansers so your skin won’t get oily.
- For cold and dry destinations (ex. wintry places or the mountains) use rich, heavy-duty moisturizers that will stop your skin from drying out, as well as oil-based products that are hydrating.
Leaving behind your regular treatments and items
Even if your skin seems to be clear and perfect in the days leading up to your trip, don’t take it as an excuse to leave behind any regular treatments such as those for redness, clogged pores, and acne, that you may use regularly. Such products must be used consistently to maintain results. If you do want to leave something behind, consider face masks, cleansing brushes, and toners.
Forgetting about your hands, feet, and lips
When on vacation, facial cleansers and moisturisers are very important but don’t forget your hands, feet, and lips. The same temperature fluctuations that make your face dry can also dry your hands and feet (as can frequent hand-washing) and make your lips chapped. So be sure to keep hand creams, foot creams, and hydrating lip balms with you.
Not staying hydrated
Staying hydrated is incredibly important for your skin. So, keep drinking water. It maintains the pH of your body as well helps your skin cells keep hydrated. Drinking water helps you remove toxins from your skin and helps your skin glow.
Also Read: Tips for Skin Care During Summer Travel
Are there any other skincare mistakes people should avoid? If so do share them in the comments below.
