When you're on the go, it can be tough to keep your skin looking its best. Between spending long hours in a stuffy airplane, less than healthy meals on the go, and new environments that you'll be exploring, your skin is likely to take a beating. But don't worry - we've got you covered! In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for keeping your skin clear and prevent acne breakouts when traveling.
Acne breakouts suck in general, but they super suck when you’re trying to have a good time. Dealing with acne breakouts isn’t exactly on top of your priorities list when you’re trying to see the world, but once you factor in a change in diet and irregular sleep patterns, acne is bound to form.
This isn't the only skin problem that you might face when traveling while traveling but many of the same principles apply to help ensure you have bright, clear, healthy skin throughout your next adventure!
How to Prevent Breakouts When You Travel
When you start having an acne flare-up while on the move, it can be pretty stressful, but there’s hope. To prevent breakouts before, during, and after you travel, follow these pro tips.
Pack an Acne Cleanser And Keep Your Skin Clean
Whether you typically have a skincare routine or not, it’s important not to forget your trusty acne-fighting cleanser. It’s a good idea to see an online dermatologist, like Nava MD, to find the best all-in-one product that suits your active lifestyle. Make sure to bring a travel size.
While a typical acne cleanser should work, make sure you consider the weather. Different climates can throw your face microbes way off, causing more breakouts and irritated skin.
Using plain old soap and water might be fine for people who don't already have breakouts but using the wrong type of soap can cause irritation and make a small problem worse.
Regularly Change Your Facemask For A Clean One
While wearing a face mask in crowded environments such as concerts, airports, and other public transportation area is an essential part of staying healthy and avoiding covid, it can also be tough for the skin on your face. If your mask gets damp from sweat or expiration, make sure to change it regularly so that you can avoid bacteria growing.
Even if you aren't in a humid area or exercising, your mask should be changed daily and disposable masks need to be tossed in the trash and cloth masks should be washed in a skin-friendly detergent.
Adjust to the Weather
When you go from hot and humid to cold, your dry skin pays the price. Going from cold to hot and humid can do a number on your skin, as well. You can combat both of these problems by regularly washing your face, using a daily moisturizer, and packing some kind of spot treatment.
If your acne is really bad, it’s a good idea to buy a face mask. You can purchase those thin sheet masks in most big cities. Get an overnight one, so you don’t waste any time.
Mist on the Plane
Airplane cabins typically maintain a humidity level of 20%, but most of us are used to 40-50%. This humidity level will cause redness and dryness, regardless of skin type. To give your skin a fighting chance, head to the bathroom once you hit cruising altitude and wash your face.
Use that moisturizer you were going to use to adjust to the weather and layer it on your face immediately after washing your face. The moisture will lock in the hydration for several hours.
Meditate the Stress Away
Traveling is stressful no matter how often you do it. Running to catch a plane is the least of your worries. The language barrier, learning how to get around, and planning your “sightseeing to-do list” will definitely stress you out, making your face and body produce more hormonal acne.
We recommend doing what you usually do to de-stress, but packing headphones, listening to a meditation app or your favorite music, and smelling lavender (seriously) work for most people.
Try to Sleep More
Asking a world traveler to “try and sleep more” is easier said than done. Jet lag in itself can knock you out of commission for days if you aren’t prepared. Most of us aren’t, so we’ll try to work through it, but a lack of sleep can cause breakouts, dullness, and dark circles.
If you have a hard time adjusting to jet lag, plan your trip around it. Give yourself a day or two to recover before going on an adventure. Or, you could try drinking more black coffee or espresso.
Water and Healthy Food
While diet isn’t the main culprit for breakouts, it can be when you travel. Think about it: how much food are you eating that’s unhealthy on your trip? Probably a lot more than you usually would. You’re likely drinking less water, even though you’re moving around and walking more.
Drinking more water is a given, but if you want to eat a cheat meal, limit it to two a week. Keep your spot treatment handy just in case you get a flare-up after a night of drinking / eating.
Avoiding breakouts when travelling doesn’t have to be a hassle. By following these tips, you should be able to avoid skin irritation and flare-ups while on the go. If your acne is really bad or if you can’t seem to shake it no matter what you do, contact us for help. Our experts are here to provide guidance in developing an effective skincare routine that will work with whatever climate change throws at you!
