## How Does Traveling Affect Your Skin?
**Changing Air:**
Whether you’re traveling by plane or experiencing different climates, the air can take a toll on your skin. Dry air can leave your skin feeling parched, while cold environments can make it feel tight and dry. On the other hand, warm and humid conditions can lead to increased sebum production, making your skin more prone to breakouts (clogged pores).
**Altered Skincare Routines:**
With overnight flights, long train rides, and car journeys, you might not have the time or energy to maintain your regular skincare routine. This can result in a build-up of dead skin cells, leading to uneven skin tone and acne. Additionally, the provided hotel skincare products may not cater to your specific skin concerns or type, potentially causing further skin issues.
**So, how can you protect your skin?**
**Hydration:**
A study found that increasing water intake by 2 liters per day for a month significantly improved skin hydration, promoting healthy and youthful-looking skin. Aim to drink enough water, especially during the days leading up to your trip and throughout your journey.
**Lip Care:**
It’s easy to forget about lip care during your travels, but don’t neglect this step! Long travel days can dry out your lips, so be sure to keep a hydrating lip balm like Vaseline or Aquaphor handy.
**Sunscreen:**
According to Dr. Garshick, it’s crucial to apply sunscreen generously during your travels, especially when flying, as you’re closer to the sun’s UV rays. Protect your skin by applying sunscreen before boarding your flight.
**Bring Your Skincare Essentials:**
If you have a skincare routine that works for you, stick to it! Look for travel-sized or mini versions of your essential skincare products, such as cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, and serum. Avoid decanting products into different containers, as proper storage is vital to maintaining their effectiveness.
**Acne Preparedness:**
Stress, pH levels, water sources, and surfaces our skin comes into contact with can all contribute to breakouts. Pack a spot treatment containing 10% benzoyl peroxide to tackle any unexpected acne during your trip.