Getty ImagesTraveling is all fun and games until it starts to wreak havoc on your skin. From dry, flaky skin that feels tight to random breakouts that don’t seem to go away, we’ve all dealt with post-travel skin freak outs at one point.
To understand why this happens, we spoke with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King. She explains why your skin may go haywire when you travel and what skincare you should pack to combat travel-induced skin conditions. Plus, many of her product recommendations are on sale for Amazon Prime Day.
- Skin barrier-strengthening moisturizer deal: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream (now $17.49, was $28.99)
- Trending K-beauty deal: Anua PDRN Collagen Glow Facial Serum Spray (now $14.70, was $25)
- Rare luxe skincare deal: Summer Fridays Super Amino Gel Facial Cleanser (now $24.50, was $35)
Why does my skin break out after flying on an airplane?
“Airplane cabins have very low humidity levels, which can increase transepidermal water loss and leave skin feeling dehydrated, tight, and dull,” says Dr. King.
Additionally, “Changes in climate, water quality, sleep schedules, diet, and stress can also disrupt the skin barrier and trigger breakouts, sensitivity, redness, or flare-ups of conditions like eczema and rosacea.”
Due to these factors, Dr. King suggests post-travel skincare should focus on hydration and barrier repair.
How can I reset my skin after a long travel day?
“After a long day of travel, I focus on cleansing away sunscreen, oil, sweat, and environmental debris while replenishing moisture,” Dr. King says. This is the post-travel routine she uses to reset her skin:
- Cleanse thoroughly with a gentle cleanser
- Apply an antioxidant or hydrating serum
- Follow with a moisturizer that supports the skin barrier
- Get a good night’s sleep and rehydrate with plenty of water
According to Dr. King, those with dry skin should also incorporate ceramide-rich moisturizers and hyaluronic acid serums to replenish any moisture lost during travel.
If you have acne-prone skin or are dealing with breakouts, she suggests adding a salicylic acid treatment and pimple patches to your routine. And while you may be tempted to avoid heavy moisturizers, Dr. King explains, “Over-drying the skin can actually worsen breakouts, so hydration is still important.”
Ultimately, “This combination helps address the dehydration, dullness, and barrier disruption that often accompany travel and leaves skin looking more refreshed the next morning.“
Shop these dermatologist-approved and on-sale skincare products you need to pack on your next trip.
The Best Prime Day Sale On A Gentle Cleanser
Dr. King suggest washing your face before boarding your flight and once you get to the hotel. A gentle cleanser is key here, as it will “remove excess oil and impurities without over-drying the skin.”
Summer Fridays Super Amino Gel Facial Cleanser
This gel cleanser is formulated with pH-balanced ingredients that promise to cleanse and remove stubborn makeup without drying out your skin.
A Salicylic Acid Treatment On Prime Day Sale
If you have acne-prone skin or deal with travel-induced breakouts, a salicylic acid treatment can help calm and shrink pimples.
CeraVe Acne Control Gel, 2% Salicylic Acid Treatment
This affordable acne spot treatment by CeraVe has 2% salicylic acid and a blend of glycolic and lactic acid to help clear acne and prevent new breakouts.
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