If you’re like most people, your idea of a perfect weekend includes a packed suitcase, a set of wheels, and an open road. But as anyone who’s ever tried to apply makeup or shave their face in a moving car can attest, getting your beauty game on point while en route can be a bit of a challenge. Don’t fret—with these six tips, you can make your skin look fabulous no matter where your journey takes you.
1. Eat clean.
The first step to great skin is giving your body the necessary nutrients to function correctly. That means fueling up with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and water—and steering clear of sugary junk food that will only make you feel sluggish.
For example, you can pack a cooler with your favorite healthy snacks to keep you feeling your best while on the go. And if you’re going to be traveling by plane, make sure to drink plenty of water before your flight to ward off the dreaded in-flight dehydration.
In addition, it’s vital to cleanse your skin both morning and night to remove any dirt, makeup, or pollution that it has come into contact with during the day. A quick wash with a gentle cleanser and some cool water will do the trick—just make sure not to scrub too hard, as this can irritate your skin.
2. Protect yourself from the sun.
Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is essential whether you’re driving cross-country or taking a leisurely stroll around the city. Always apply sunscreen before heading outdoors, and don’t forget to reapply every few hours if you’re going to be in the sun for an extended period.
In addition, a hat and sunglasses are also great accessories for shielding your face from the sun’s rays. And if you’re going to be spending time in the water, make sure to use a waterproof sunscreen for added protection.
Regardless of how you choose to protect yourself, the most important thing is to be vigilant about sunscreen application. After all, skin cancer is no joke.
3. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
One of the most important things you can do for your skin is to keep it hydrated, and that’s especially true when you’re traveling. The dry air in airplanes can wreak havoc on your skin, so be sure to apply a generous layer of moisturizer before takeoff and throughout your flight.
You can also keep a small bottle of lotion in your purse for touch-ups during layovers or long sightseeing days. And if your skin is feeling particularly parched, a face mist can also do wonders for restoring moisture.
No matter how you choose to hydrate your skin, the important thing is to do it regularly—otherwise, you’ll be left with dry, flaky skin that’s prone to breakouts and premature aging.
4. Treat any breakouts ASAP.
No one wants to deal with a pimple. Still, unfortunately, breakouts can happen at the most inconvenient times—like when you’re about to board a plane or walk into that big meeting. If you find yourself in this predicament, don’t panic. Here are a few things you can do to nip the problem in the bud.
- Make sure you’re cleansing your skin regularly to remove any dirt or makeup that could be clogging your pores.
- Pack a spot treatment in your bag so you can address the problem immediately.
- If the previous tip didn’t prove effective, try Accutane alternatives that are less prone to dry out your skin or give you harmful side effects in the long run.
- Resist the temptation to pick at your skin—this will only worsen the situation.
If you follow these steps, you should be able to get your breakout under control in no time. Remember to be patient—healing takes time, but it’ll be worth it in the end.
5. Cleansing wipes are your friend.
Trying to wash your face in a tiny hotel sink is never fun, so cleansing wipes are a jetsetter’s best friend. Be sure to choose an alcohol-free formula that won’t dry out your skin, and keep a pack in your purse for refreshing your face after a long day exploring new cities or hitting the beach.
And if you’re really in a pinch, baby wipes can also do the trick in a bit. Just make sure to follow up with a proper cleanser and moisturizer once you have access to running water.
6. Take advantage of downtime.
“Me time” is hard to come by when you’re constantly on the move, but it’s essential to take some time for yourself now and then to relax and recharge. If you have some free time between activities while you’re traveling, take advantage of it by investing in a good skincare routine.
Use this time to exfoliate, moisturize, and give yourself a mini facial —your skin will thank you! You can also use this time to apply a face mask or take a relaxing bath. Just make sure to not overdo it—too much pampering can actually lead to skin problems like sensitivity and breakouts.
Taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be complicated — just follow these simple tips, and you’ll be on your way to radiant, healthy skin, no matter where your travels take you!
