How to avoid bad skin while travelling
Long weekends are just made for adventure! Recently, I travelled to northern Queensland for a getaway. There were flights, treated air-conditioning, humidity, wind, sun and air-conditioned 4WD trips to our final destination in the tablelands – everything that is sure to make your skin unhappy! Being fairer and more sensitive skinned, I was expecting my face to turn into a desert after the man-made and natural environment took their toll on my skin. Luckily, I had a few tricks up my sleeve to prevent my plane trip turning into a skincare horror story.
Step 1: Stick to routine
I started with my prescribed morning routine. I did not skip on using my leave on alpha hydroxyl acid. Some acids like lactic acid, and gel-like water holding molecule that is the space filler and cushioning agent in all mammals, help maintain moisture levels in your skin.
Step 2: No make up
Wearing make-up can help clog your pores and contribute to congestion, especially while travelling in climate-controlled environments. I even managed to for-go my new favourite hot pink lipstick. If you can’t go without make up, try a multi-action product like a tinted moisturiser.
Step 3: Leave on masque
There are a number of leave-on hydrating products to pick from. I chose to use Dermalogica’s Skin Hydrating Masque. Leave it on like you would a moisturiser when your skin needs some serious hydration. I simply just clean it off when I arrived at my destination.
Step 4: Refresh on the plane
A hydrating and refreshing toner can help settle any air-con induced skin flare-ups. Spritz some onto clean palms and press lightly onto your face (this avoids spraying the person next to you!) Ask for water or herbal tea, instead of grabbing an alcoholic beverage or coffee (which can dehydrate you from the inside). I enjoyed some peppermint tea, coconut water and spring water.
Step 5: Don’t touch your face
Hands are great at spreading germs, which can contribute to acne and flare-ups. Often, this can be done without us realising it, and we might rest our face on our hands whilst reading. I love to read on planes, so I opted for good posture and neck support instead! Take breaks often and stretch to avoid the temptation.
Step 6: SPF 50 is a must
Northern Australia is known for its year round warmth and sunshine. I used a 50+ sunscreen with moisturiser for both my face and body, and the double action product saved space while travelling. For a free personalised skin assessment using Dermalogica’s face mapping skin analysis, make an appointment with Alexandra our skincare nurse on 1300 123 368.
