Easy ways to keep your skin looking flawless
By Pamela Dawne Bolado
Travel can be great for the soul but tough on your skin—especially during the summer months when the sun is beaming and the water is cool (and highly chlorinated).
Your skin has numerous reasons to act up from the bacteria you breathe on the airplane to fluctuations in climate, routine, sleep patterns and, not to forget, increased sun exposure.
So how do you keep your skin happy while living that travel and beach life? The answer is more than just applying your sun protection.
Improve your airplane hygiene! Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Cleanliness is so important, especially when dealing with recycled air on a plane. The first step is to wipe down the seat and armrests before you sit. People leave behind bacteria and oils on the seat, which is why sometimes people can develop body acne, especially where skin is exposed. You can also apply that rule to your phone!
I love facial hydrating mists. If you have that ‘I don’t care’ attribute, like myself, wear a hydrating sheet mask on your overnight flight to combat dry cabin air!
Drink lots of water! Staying hydrated is so important. If caffeine is a must, opt for green tea to give you a boost rather than getting the dehydrating effect of coffee.
Healthy Hotel Habits!
During the summer, many of us are prone to breakouts due to excessive sweating and sometimes using new products. Always travel with your own products. Hotel toiletries, even the most lavish, can give your skin trouble if you’ve never tested them out. If your favorite products don’t have travel sizes available, it’s a good idea to invest in mini travel bottles to fill them to go.
Protect! Protect! Protect!
Did I mention sun protection? Those UV rays are for real! And never underestimate them when it’s cloudy. Even if you rarely to never burn, you are at risk of skin cancer when you remain outside unprotected. Here are my favorite SPF options:
• Cotz Prime & Protect SPF 40
• Coola SPF 30
• Elta SPF 30
• ZO Skin Health SPF 50
A minimum of SPF 30 should always be applied and re-applied! Make sure to apply a whole-body sunscreen before leaving for the day—and bring it with you. It’s important to reapply every few hours and more if you are swimming.
Adjust Your Skin-care Routine Accordingly
Knowing your skin type is key! The summer heat can be good for people with dry skin, especially if there’s humidity. For those with oily skin types, the heat can pose a challenge. I’ve spoken to many clients who skip the moisturizer because they’re worried it will make their skin more oily, however, dry and cracked skin makes it easier for bacteria to get in and cause acne—and that dryness is causing the skin to produce more oil. Keep your skin routine simple by starting with cleansing and ending with moisturizing. I highly recommend using a toner and serum. That’s when a visit to your MedSpa can help, by prescribing the best products for your individual skin needs.
Here are a few suggestions for a summer skin routine:
• Dry sensitive skin should use a creamy cleanser, and for those with oily skin I recommend using a water-based cleanser in the morning and then a foam cleanser in the evening. It’s always a good idea to gently exfoliate a few times a week to keep your skin glowing.
• I suggest applying a toner after cleansing, which aids in ‘establishing’ the PH back to the skin. If you have oily skin, then you may want to use a serum before applying sun protection. For dry skin, use a light water-based moisturizer after toning and before SPF.
• Always pack some aloe in case you end up getting a little more sun than you intended—a tried-and-true remedy for sunburn and wound healing.
Bottom Line … Plan Ahead!
Pack your carryon with your essentials, including your re-application sunscreen. I always keep one in my glove compartment!
Even after the exhausting traveling days, always prioritize your night routine by washing and moisturizing your face and body before bed—and in the morning! With a simple routine, you can have an enjoyable vacation and still keep your skin glowing and healthy!
This article was provided by Pamela Dawne Bolado, LME, LMS, Oncology Trained LME
Instagram @pamelaskinspecialist / LePamier.com