Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but it can take a toll on your skin. Whether jet-setting to a tropical paradise or navigating the dry air of high-altitude destinations, your skin’s needs can change quickly on the road. But don’t worry! With the right skincare routine and a few travel-smart tips, you can keep your face and skin healthy and glowing throughout your journey.

Here are some top tips for maintaining your skincare regimen while traveling so you can feel confident and refreshed, no matter where the road takes you.

***Keep Your Skincare Routine Simple***

Cleanser | Moisturizer | Sunscreen

When traveling, bringing every skincare product you use at home is tempting, but less is often more. Focus on the essentials:

Cleanser: A gentle, non-stripping cleanser is key for keeping your skin clean without disrupting its natural moisture barrier. If you travel like me, only with a carry-on, my best advice is to use cleansing wipes. Look out for our gentle Fresh Face cleansing wipes that are biodegradable and contain minimal ingredients with added glycerin moisturizer, panthenol, and nicotinamide to calm stressed skin.

Moisturizer: Whether your skin is dry or oily, a rich moisturizer suited to your skin type will help lock in hydration. Harken Derm’s Repair Moisturizer is perfect and TSA proof.

Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a must, no matter the destination. Again, Harken Derm is your best friend.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Hydration is Key!

Drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin from
the inside out.

Air travel and changes in climate can leave your skin feeling dry and dehydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin from the inside out. Keep a refillable water bottle with you throughout your trip to ensure you stay hydrated.

Additionally, consider using hydrating skincare products that provide a moisture boost, such as:

Moisturizers that contain glycerin, ceramides, fatty acids and even plain Vaseline to lock in moisture and prevent dehydration.

Moisturizing face mists (especially on flights or long road trips).

Overnight hydrating masks if you’re in a dry or high-altitude environment.

My long-Distance Air Travel Routine

Airplane cabins are notorious for their dry air.

After boarding, I use facial wipes to remove all
products and apply either plain Vaseline or
Harken Derm repair moisturizer.

Airplane cabins are notorious for their dry air. When I am traveling transatlantic or even further, if possible, I already board without any make-up, except sunscreen on my face, because I never leave the house without sunscreen. After boarding, I use facial wipes to remove all products and apply either plain Vaseline or Harken Derm repair moisturizer all over my face and Vaseline on my lips. If you want to be fancy, pack a moisturizing face mask or sheet mask, even an under-eye mask, to eliminate puffiness and fine lines that are more visible on dry skin.

Remember that glass only blocks UVB light, and there is some level of UVA protection by airplane windows, depending on the material and design. If you sit next to the window on the sunny side, significant UVA light can still pass through, and in that case, I advise you to keep your sunscreen on and put moisturizer on top of it. Layering moisturizer on top of sunscreen will not reduce the UV protection offered by the sunscreen if you wait a short time between applications.

Before landing, a face mist can help wake up the skin, and you should never step outside without applying sunscreen.

Adapt Your Routine to Your Destination

Different environments may require adjustments to your skincare routine. Here’s a quick guide based on where you're headed:

Tropical Destinations (hot, humid weather): Opt for lightweight, oil-free, or gel-based moisturizers to prevent your skin from feeling greasy. Keep your routine simple with a gentle cleanser, sunscreen, and a lightweight moisturizer.

Cold or Dry Climates (mountainous or desert areas): Focus on richer, hydrating products like thicker creams, oils, and hydrating serums. Be sure to pack a lip balm and hand cream, as these areas tend to dry out easily.

Pack Smart: Travel-Friendly Skincare Essentials

You don’t need to bring your entire skincare collection, but there are a few key items to consider packing for your journey:

Travel-sized products: Many brands offer travel-sized versions of their most popular products, making it easy to keep your routine intact.

Multi-use products: Be aware that moisturizers with SPF often contain only UVB filters and are often not broad-spectrum. I do not recommend those to my patients, although they seem practical for travel purposes.

Portable facial wipes or cleansing cloths: Great for freshening up when you don’t have access to water or during long flights.

Tip: For airport security compliance, keep your skincare products in a clear, resealable bag (remember the TSA liquids rule: 3.4 oz or 100 mL per item).

Stay on Top of Your Skin’s Needs

Being away from home can throw off your regular schedule, but keeping your skin's needs in mind is key. A quick touch-up or extra attention can help:

Avoid over-cleansing: Cleansing too much can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it vulnerable to irritation.

Use sheet masks: These are easy to pack, and the instant hydration can be a lifesaver when your skin feels tired or stressed.

Avoid trying new products: Traveling isn’t the best time to experiment with unfamiliar products. Stick with products that you know your skin reacts well to.

Don’t Forget Your Body

Your face isn’t the only area of your body that needs attention during travel. Often, long flights and changes in climate can affect your body’s skin too:

Moisturize your body: Use a rich body lotion or oil to keep your skin soft and hydrated, especially if you’re in a dry environment.

Lip care: Don’t forget to keep your lips hydrated! Use a nourishing lip balm that protects and locks in moisture.

Get Enough Sleep

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of rest and recovery. Lack of sleep can result in dull, tired skin and can exacerbate skin conditions like acne or eczema. Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule, even when you're in a new time zone, and aim for at least 7–8 hours of rest each night.

Healthy Skin, Happy Travels

With just a few thoughtful adjustments to your routine, you can ensure your skin remains healthy and glowing while you explore the world. Keep things simple, stay hydrated, protect your skin from the sun, and adapt your routine to your environment. That way, you can enjoy your travels to the fullest without worrying about your skin.

Have a great time on your next trip, and take care of that healthy skin!

Skincare on the Go!

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