7 Top tips to maintain healthy skin when travelling this summer

Going on holiday is something we should look forward to, a chance to discover, rest and recover. However, our skin can suffer when not cared for properly. From your environment, skincare products to diet and temperature; there are many factors that can affect the health of your skin when travelling this summer.

While putting on your out of hours and getting ready to go away, considering your skin health may not be at the front of your mind. However, neglection can create a much bigger issue. We’ve put together a checklist of items, routines and things to remember when preparing for your vacation or adventure.

1. Pre-planning the packing

Depending on how you choose to travel to your destination, thinking about the effects the vehicle could have on your skin is important. For example, travelling via airplanes can cause dehydration, increase in oil production and promote acne. Trains and buses can be busy meaning you’re exposed to a higher amount of bacteria or airborne viruses. Travelling via car with the windows open can expose your face to exhaust pollution.

The planning doesn’t stop there, think about the type of water flowing through the destination you’re visiting. When washing, if the water is hard, it will be harsh and soft water will be more gentle and kinder to your skin. Choose your skincare products accordingly, but remember to get mini versions to accommodate any travel restrictions or rules.

2. Skincare routine for airplane flights

Nobody wants dry skin on holiday. When packing your hand luggage for a flight, choosing your skincare is essential to maintain moisture within the skin. With high chances of dehydration and a possible flare-up of acne and blemishes, follow a simple but effective routine; cleanse, tone and moisturise. Proto-col’s Foaming Facial Wash deeply cleanses the skin while minimising the appearance of pores, restoring the skin’s natural PH balance and prevent a build-up of oil and other bacteria.

 
The Proto-col’s Hydrating Collagen Toning Mist refreshes the face as a toner spray while exfoliating and tightening pores and reduces inflammation to target redness and calm irritating skin. Finish off with Proto-col’s Collagen Facemask soothes and treats stressed skin and delivers replenishing agents to boost hydration by 45.2%.* The hydration doesn’t stop there – Collagen Facemask is a saviour for after-sun recovery too. You can shop mini travel-sized skincare here.

 

3. Bring your water bottle

Drinking water is important for your overall health day to day but when travelling (especially somewhere warm), keeping your hydration levels up is crucial. Keeping your body and skin flushed with water and topped up with fluids will enable your skin to refresh and keep signs of ageing or acne at bay. Maintaining your skin’s elasticity is just one of the many benefits drinking plenty of water. The NHS recommend to try and keep topped up with at least 6-8 glasses a day.[1]
 
By bringing your water bottle, you can take a more sustainable approach to staying hydrated. Avoiding plastic waste, bringing a re-usable water bottle looks after you and the planet.

 

4. Remember your SPF

SPF should be a staple in your existing skincare routine, but it’s time to pay special attention during your travels. As we know, SPF can reduce signs of ageing and protect your skin even if skies appear cloudy. The UV rays can damage the outside and inside of your skin’s barrier, making SPF a crucial step when getting ready in the morning.
 
Proto-col’s Intense Protection Day Moisturiser SPF50+ helps to soothe and hydrate skin while defending against harmful pollutants and UV rays. Containing plant-derived collagen, sunscreen actives, hyaluronic acid and Aloe vera, this skincare essential is ideal for any trip abroad or at home. Lightweight clothing and hats with large brims can also help protect your skin from the sun.
Read our article 6 Tips to help you stay safe in the sun and feel confident about your self-defence actions in the heat.
 

5. Check pollution levels before visits

Unfortunately, high levels of pollution can break down the collagen levels in your skin and oxidizes the lipid layer which damages the skin-barrier protection. Your skin can be sensitive, dehydrated and prematurely age as a result.

By packing your Intense Protection Day Moisturiser SPF50+, you can help to protect your skin against harmful airborne pollutants.

6. Minimise make-up

By reducing the amount of make-up, you use on holiday, you’re not only reducing the weight of your luggage but allowing your pores to breathe. Applying too much make-up can make skin feel caked especially in the heat – sweat, heavy make-up and the heat can combine to cause breakouts.
 
Refresh your face with a cleansing routine at the start and end of each day using Proto-col’s Foaming Facial Wash, Collagen Facial Serum and Moisturising Facial Gel to feel rejuvenated. The Eye Lift has been designed to lift, firm, brighten and tighten tired-looking skin without the need for make-up.
 
On the countdown to your trip, you want to feel as comfortable in your own skin as ever before. Boost your skincare routine with Complete Collagen. Award-winning, Complete Collagen increases skin elasticity and firmness, reduces wrinkles, improves skin surface in cellulite and contains endless vitamins and minerals. Designed in a sachet form, pack with you to take on the go so your collagen routine never has to stop.

 
If you’d prefer a plant-based alternative, try Skin Radiance. Increasing skin luminosity and elasticity while reducing redness, dark spots and dark circles, Skin Radiance is rich in antioxidants and boosts collagen production. Using SkinAx2™ which is high in bioavailability ratings and clinically tested to improve skin tone, you can have better skin in just eight weeks.
 

7. The effects travelling has on your gut

Your digestive system and gut health can suffer as a result of travelling, with diarrhoea, constipation, heartburn, nausea and bloating all being a result of the tissue damage which can also reflect in skin breakouts. Care for your digestive health and ensure you consume the right nutrients with Proto-col’s Green Magic.
 
Formulated by 16 superfoods, each scoop is designed to provide fibre, rich vitamins, help fight fatigue and support a healthy immune system.
 

However you try to prepare for your skin, make sure you’re protecting it from the sun and keep on top of your nutrient intake and hydration levels. While your skin may take time adjusting to the new climate you’re travelling to, keep a close observation how it reacts to different formulas and environments.

 *Results after 2 hours of application. Results last for 24 hours.

[1] https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-guidelines-and-food-labels/water-drinks-nutrition/#:~:text=The%20Eatwell%20Guide%20says%20we,tea%20and%20coffee%2C%20all%20count.