Do you know there are practical ways to keep your skin clear while traveling? Acne breakouts are a common problem for many people, especially when they’re traveling.
Our pores are sensitive and react to all of the various elements we encounter while on vacation- from the new climate and humidity levels to the different types of food and water. Here are some tips on how to keep your skin clear and free from breakouts while you’re away!
1. Clean your face twice a day and double cleanse
When you’re traveling, it’s more important than ever to keep your skin clean. Make sure to wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser- once in the morning and once at night.
- In the morning
When you sleep, your skin may get polluted. This is why it is important to clean your skin in the morning. Your pillowcase may have dead skin cells and allergens on it. These can be transferred to your face during the night. The air from an air conditioner or heater can create dust, mold, and other environmental contaminants that might collect on your face overnight.
- In the evening
If you want to keep your skin looking good, it is important to wash your face before bed. This is because free radicals from the environment, like pollutants and UV rays, can break down collagen over time. This can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, and even breakouts.
Double cleanse in the evening. You should practice double-cleansing, especially at the end of your day. Double cleansing means cleansing your face twice- once with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and dirt, and again with a water-based cleanser to cleanse your skin or your regular cleanser. This will help to remove all of the dirt and bacteria that can cause breakouts.
2. Pamper your face the right way
- Avoid scrubbing too hard
When you’re cleansing your face, avoid scrubbing too hard. This can irritate your skin and make breakouts worse. Instead, use gentle circular motions to cleanse your face.
- Use a toner
Toner can help to remove any remaining dirt and oil on your skin after cleansing. It can also help to control excess sebum production, which can lead to breakouts. Look for a toner that contains ingredients like witch hazel or tea tree oil, which can help to fight acne-causing bacteria.
- Exfoliate regularly
Exfoliating two to three times a week will help to remove any dead skin cells that could be clogging your pores and causing breakouts. Look for an exfoliator with gentle beads or ingredients like lactic acid or glycolic acid, which will help to slough away dead skin without irritating your skin.
- Use a face mask
Face masks are a great way to give your skin a deep cleanse and they can also help to fight breakouts. Look for a face mask that contains ingredients like activated charcoal or bentonite clay, which can help to absorb excess oil and draw out impurities.
- Moisturize
It’s important to moisturize your skin using a non-comedogenic moisturizer, even if you have oily skin. This will help to keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from overproducing sebum in an attempt to moisturize itself. Look for a light, gel-based moisturizer that will help to control oil production without clogging your pores.
3. Use a spot treatment
You can read more and find a list of 15 best acne spot treatments that actually work.
If you do get a pimple, it’s important to treat it right away using a spot treatment. You may look for a spot treatment that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which can help to kill acne-causing bacteria and dry up the pimple.
Spot treatments are a great way to get rid of any existing breakouts, and can help to prevent new ones from forming. There are a variety of different spot treatments available on the market, so you can find one that best suits your needs. Some spot treatments work by drying out the blemish, while others contain ingredients that help to reduce inflammation and redness. Be sure to read the labels carefully to find one that is right for you.
4. Keep your hair clean
It’s also important to keep your hair clean while traveling. Dirty and oily hair can contribute to the development of acne.
- Wash your hair regularly
Your hair can transfer oil and dirt to your face, which can lead to breakouts. Make sure to wash your hair regularly while you’re traveling- especially if you’re sweating more than usual.
- You can use a dry shampoo
If you’re not able to wash your hair every day, try using a dry shampoo to help absorb any oils and dirt that may be building up on your scalp.
- Avoid bun or ponytail if possible
You should also avoid putting your hair up in a tight bun or ponytail, as this can also transfer oil and dirt to your face.
4. Don’t touch your face
It’s important not to touch your face while you’re traveling, as this can contribute to the development of acne. Our hands come into contact with a variety of different dirt and bacteria, which can clog our pores and cause breakouts.
If you do get a pimple, resist the temptation to touch it. Squeezing or picking at a pimple can cause it to become inflamed and can lead to scarring. Use a spot treatment instead, as explained above.
5. Use oil-free products
Many skincare and makeup products contain oils that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
If you have oily or combination skin, it’s important to use oil-free products to help keep your pores clear. Look for products that are labeled as “oil-free,” and avoid products that contain petroleum jelly or mineral oil, as these can clog your pores and lead to breakouts.
You may also want to try using a mattifying moisturizer to help control oil production and keep your skin looking shine-free.
6. Drink plenty of water
It’s important to drink plenty of water while you’re traveling. This can help to keep your skin hydrated and prevent breakouts. Staying hydrated is important for clear skin, especially when you’re in a new place.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush out toxins and keep your skin looking healthy.
Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and more if you can.
You can also try carrying around a water bottle with you to make it easier to drink the recommended amount of water.
7. Eat healthy foods
What you eat can affect your skin, so it’s important to eat a healthy diet when you’re trying to avoid breakouts.
Eating a healthy diet is important for clear skin. Foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals can help to nourish your skin and keep it looking healthy.
Some good foods to eat for clear skin include:
-Fruits and vegetables: These are packed with antioxidants, which can help to protect your skin from damage. Eat a variety of brightly colored fruits and vegetables to get the most benefit.
-Fish: Fish such as salmon and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to keep your skin looking plump and hydrated.
-Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are other good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. They’re also a great source of vitamin E, which can help to protect your skin from damage.
-Water: As mentioned above, staying hydrated is important for clear skin. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin looking healthy.
8. Get enough sleep every night
Sleep is essential for our overall health and wellbeing, and it’s especially important for our skin.
Getting enough sleep every night can help to improve the appearance of your skin and prevent breakouts. When we’re tired, our bodies aren’t able to heal and regenerate as efficiently as they should be, which can lead to an increase in breakouts.
Aim to get at least eight hours of sleep every night, and more if you can. This will help your body to recover from the day and heal any skin damage that may have occurred.
9. Try using a portable humidifier
If the air in your hotel room is dry, it can contribute to the development of breakouts.
Try using a humidifier to add moisture back into the air and help prevent your skin from drying out. This can help to keep your skin hydrated and reduce the chances of developing new breakouts.
There are portable humidifiers that can easily be included in your luggage.
10. Use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, and it’s especially important when you’re traveling.
It’s important to remember to protect your skin from the sun. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to help prevent sun damage and breakouts, even if it’s cloudy.
You should also limit your time in the sun, and wear protective clothing like long sleeves and a hat if you’ll be spending extended periods outdoors.
11. Be mindful of your makeup
Makeup can often aggravate acne, so it’s best to avoid wearing it if you don’t have to.
If you have to wear it, be mindful of the makeup you’re using. Choose products that are labeled “noncomedogenic” or “oil-free.” These products are less likely to cause breakouts.
Also, be sure to remove your makeup thoroughly at the end of the day. Leaving makeup on your skin overnight can clog your pores and lead to breakouts.
12. Make sure to clean your makeup brushes regularly.
Makeup brushes can often harbor bacteria and dirt, which can lead to breakouts.
It’s important to clean your makeup brushes regularly to keep them free from bacteria and other contaminants. This will help to prevent breakouts and keep your skin looking clear.
There are a few different ways to clean your makeup brushes:
-Use a brush cleaner: You can find brush cleaners at most beauty stores. Simply spray the cleaner onto the bristles of the brush and then wipe it off with a clean cloth.
-Shampoo: Another way to clean your brushes is to shampoo them. Use a mild shampoo and lukewarm water to wet the bristles of the brush. Gently massage the bristles to clean them and then rinse thoroughly.
-Soap and water: You can also use soap and water to clean your brushes. Simply wet the bristles with warm water and add a small amount of mild soap. Gently massage the bristles to clean them and then rinse thoroughly.
13. Bring along blotting papers
If you have oily skin, blotting papers can be a lifesaver while you’re traveling.
Blotting papers are small sheets of paper that you can use to absorb excess oil and shine from your face. They’re much less drying than using a powder or foundation to control oil, and they can help to keep your skin looking matte and shine-free.
Keep a pack of blotting papers in your purse or backpack so you can use them as needed throughout the day.
14. Try not to stress
When you’re on vacation, it’s important to try to relax and enjoy yourself.
Stress can often aggravate acne, so it’s best to avoid it if you can.
If you find yourself feeling stressed out, take a few minutes to yourself to relax and de-stress. Maybe take a walk around the block, or just sit and enjoy the view.
Whatever you do, try to take some time to relax and clear your mind. This may help to prevent breakouts and keep your skin looking its best.
Stress can cause breakouts, so it’s important to relax when you’re on vacation. Take some time for yourself each day to do things you enjoy, such as reading or taking a walk.
15. When to see a doctor
It may be tough to locate a doctor when traveling. If you have moderate to severe acne that isn’t going away with the above methods, though, it’s important to see a doctor. A doctor can prescribe oral or topical medications that may help to clear your skin.
Don’t let acne ruin your trip! By following these tips, you can help to prevent breakouts and keep your skin looking its best.
Conclusion
Acne can be a real pain, but luckily there are things you can do to prevent breakouts while you’re traveling. From being mindful of the products you use to keeping your skin clean, there are several ways to help keep your skin clear and free from breakouts. So, don’t let acne ruin your vacation! Make the most of your time away, as you may use these tips to maintain your skin looking great.