Summer travel is exciting, but it can also throw your skincare routine into chaos if you’re not prepared. Changes in climate, long flights, hotel water, and even new foods can all affect your skin. Luckily, a little planning goes a long way. With the right products and habits, you can keep your skin looking fresh, hydrated, and glowing no matter where your adventures take you.
Simplify Your Skin Care Routine
As much as we love a full skincare lineup, travel calls for a “greatest hits” approach — just the essentials for healthy, happy skin.
- Cleanser: Choose a gentle cleanser that removes makeup, sunscreen, and sweat without stripping your skin. Ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid can help support your skin barrier.
- Moisturizer: Look for a lightweight but hydrating formula that matches your destination’s climate.
- Sunscreen: Non-negotiable! Opt for a mineral-based, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and reapply throughout the day.
- Treatment Serum: If you use a vitamin C serum or hydrating serum daily, bring it in a travel-size version to keep your glow going.
- Be Cautious with Retinol: If you’re visiting a sunnier or hotter climate than you’re used to, it’s best to pause or reduce the use of retinol. It can make skin more sensitive to sun exposure, even with diligent sunscreen use.
Pro Tip: Travel can stress your skin, so avoid introducing new products while you’re away. Stick to what your skin knows and loves.
Packing Smart for Your Skin
Don’t forget to protect your skincare investment while you travel! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use travel-size containers that meet TSA guidelines to avoid issues at airport security.
- Carry a waterproof, hard-shell travel case for your skincare products to prevent spills or squishing in your luggage.
- Pack a few essentials in your carry-on:
- Facial Mist: Perfect for refreshing and rehydrating during long flights or car rides.
- Hydrating Mask: A lightweight, no-rinse mask can soothe and revive dry skin after a flight.
- Mini Sunscreen: So you can reapply without digging through checked luggage.
Even a short-haul flight can dry your skin. A little mid-travel TLC goes a long way.
Never Skip Sunscreen
Whether you’re lounging on the beach or exploring a city, your skin is exposed to more UV rays during summer travel. Consistent sunscreen application is crucial to prevent sunburn, premature aging, and uneven pigmentation.
- Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors, and immediately after swimming or sweating.
- Choose a compact, travel-friendly SPF so it’s always with you.
- Cover often-missed spots like your ears, neck, hands, and the tops of your feet.
- Don’t forget your lips! Use a lip balm with SPF protection to shield your lips from sunburn and dryness.
Pro Tip: Pack a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection. Shielding your face from direct sun exposure not only helps prevent burns but also reduces your risk of developing sunspots and uneven pigmentation.
Explore Illume’s skincare and sunscreen options →
Hydrate Your Skin
Flying, air conditioning, and hot climates can dehydrate your skin faster than you realize. To keep your skin supple and fresh:
- Drink plenty of water throughout your trip.
- Mist your face with a gentle hydrating spray during flights.
- Apply a rich moisturizer at night to help your skin recover.
Shop hydration-boosting skincare at Illume →
Plan Ahead for Med Spa Services
If you’re planning a big summer trip, it’s a good idea to schedule any med spa treatments well in advance. Certain services can refresh your look and boost your confidence for vacation photos, but they also require a little downtime.
Here are a few tips for timing it right:
- Botox®: Schedule your appointment at least two to four weeks before traveling. It takes a few days for results to settle, and early planning ensures time for any minor touch-ups if needed.
Learn more about Botox® →
- Dermal Fillers: Book three to four weeks ahead of your trip. Fillers can cause mild swelling or bruising, which you’ll want fully resolved before your vacation.
Explore dermal fillers →
- Facials and Skin Treatments: Plan facials like the Deep Cleansing Facial or Hydrating Oxygen Facial one to two weeks prior. This gives your skin time to recover, glow, and look its best.
- While you’re booking, go ahead and schedule a post-travel facial, too! A professional treatment after you return can help clear congestion, restore hydration, and refresh your skin after days in the sun, salt water, or dry airplane air.
- Laser and Light Treatments: Treatments like the Moxi Laser is an effective year-round treatment that offers little to no downtime. You are able to start applying make-up again 24 hours after the treatment.
Pro Tip: Always discuss your travel plans with your provider during your consultation. They can recommend the best timing based on your treatment goals and itinerary.
Keep Your Skin Vacation-Ready Year Round
With a few smart strategies, you can enjoy every moment of your summer travels without sacrificing your skincare goals. At Illume Cosmetic Surgery & MedSpa, we offer expert-recommended products, treatments, and consultations to help you maintain healthy, radiant skin – wherever life takes you.
Contact us today to schedule your personalized skincare consultation before your next getaway!
