How To Keep Your Skin Healthy While on Vacation

Trips and vacations are super fun, but they tend to throw off our skincare routines. Plane rides, compromised immune systems, interrupted sleep, and different climates can wreak havoc on our skin. So how do you keep your skin healthy while on vacation?The trick is to stick to your regular routine as much as possible while adding in some extra precautions to combat extraneous factors like sun exposure and jet lag. Whether you’re backpacking across Europe, vacationing in a beach house, roadtripping, or even just getting away for a long weekend this summer, here’s what you need to know about keeping your skin healthy and clear.

Tip #1: Sun protection!

Come on, you knew this was coming, right? As much as you might want that sunkissed glow, too much sun exposure can damage your poor skin. To avoid sun damage, make sure to apply (and reapply) a mineral sunscreen daily. Our current favorite is Suntegrity Moisturizing Sunscreen and Primer. It’s organic, vegan, and free of chemical UV absorbers. (Which we don’t like. Read more about that here).

Avoid direct sunlight when the sun is strongest (between 10am and 2pm). Wear polarized sunglasses when you’re out in the sun to avoid squinting and wrinkles, and throw on a cute sun hat to protect your face! And I shouldn’t have to say this, but please, for the love of your skin, don’t lay out for hours in the sun to get a tan! If you want to tan, opt for an all-natural spray tan that doesn’t expose you to damaging UV rays.

Tip #2: Hydrate

During long car rides, flights, and outdoor excursions, we often forget to drink enough water! Hydration is important for maintaining the elasticity of your skin, so drink up. The day before a long flight, make sure to drink plenty of water and eat lots of watery fruits and veggies like cucumber, watermelon, and lettuce. Don’t forget to bring water on the plane or in the car with you and sip regularly, even if it means taking more bathroom breaks. It’s worth it! Your circulation will thank you for the extra exercise too. Dehydration is especially threatening if you’re traveling to a drier climate than you’re used to. Make sure to apply an all-natural water-based moisturizer (like our Hella Hydration cream), and don’t be afraid to apply a moisturizing overnight mask or even just a quickie mask in the morning, before bed, or when getting ready for a night out. Our Moonbeam Brightening mask is perfect for this! That being said, make sure to take it easy on the alcohol, sugar, and caffeine. Alcohol dehydrates your body and skin, which can lead to wrinkles, breakouts, and flaky skin. I want you to have a good time on vacation and all, but don’t overdo it! Or at least make sure to drink plenty of water to replenish your water stores after the mai tai and nachos.

Tip #3: Combat Sleeplessness

One of the not-so-awesome parts of traveling is adjusting to sleeping in a new place, long flights or drives that throw off your sleep schedule, late nights and early mornings, and the dreaded jet lag. If you want your skin to stay healthy on the road, sleep has to be a priority. First, the obvious: Do your best to keep up with your normal sleep schedule and adjust to your new time zone as soon as you arrive. Whatever you need to do to sleep on the plane, do it. Even if it requires a goofy sleep mask and a neck pillow. When you get to your destination, go to bed at a decent hour, especially if you’re getting up early to beat the heat or crowds. But I don’t want you to be a party pooper of course, and sometimes sleep just doesn’t happen. If you find yourself short on rest and fighting under eye circles, try a skin tightening cream like our Whipped Coffee Eye Cream.

Tip #4: Eat Your Veggies

I’m all for eating (and drinking!) your way through a country, but in between the croissants, wine, and cheese platters, make sure to get some healthy food too! Load up on fresh fruits and vegetables so you can get your vitamins, minerals, and hydration your skin needs. Go easy on the grease and sugar if you can. These ingredients cause breakouts and can leave your skin feeling dull. The bottom line to staying healthy and glowing on vacation is this: Have a good time, but be mindful of how you feel. Do you really need that third glass of wine or to stay up an extra hour? It’s up to you. Do you really need to tan, or would you have just as much fun at the beach with a shady umbrella? Be mindful of your little choices and your skin will thank you!For more products to keep your skin healthy on the road, check out The Portland Girl shop!