In the spirit of adventure, pack your bags, secure your passport, and count the days until you embark on your next big trek. Whether trekking in the mountains or exploring a new city, you’re ready for your journey.
But what about your skin? We often overlook our skincare routine regarding travel and outdoor activities. The truth is that taking care of your skin is just as important, if not more so when exploring new places.
Whether climbing a mountain or catching waves at the beach, some specific skincare tips and tricks will help keep your skin protected and looking its best in any location. Here’s how to prepare yourself and your skin for your next big adventure.
If you love to travel and explore the outdoors, you know several skin concerns come with it. From over-exposure to the sun to wind-chapped cheeks to out-of-the-ordinary stress levels, your skin takes a beating during outdoor and travel activities.
Here are some common skin issues you should be aware of when preparing for your next big adventure:
Knowing these common issues will help you plan for your skincare needs while enjoying your travels!
When packing up and leaving home for your next big trip, you want to ensure that all your skincare essentials fit in your bag.
This is why size matters so much when it comes to travel skincare. Look for travel-friendly products in smaller, more portable packages. Multi-tasking products can save time and space. For example, a single multi-purpose moisturising SPF or moisturising insect repellent can tackle multiple steps in one fell swoop.
You might also want to consider switching to solid bar versions of your favourite products like shampoo and conditioner, which usually take up less room than their bottled counterparts, as well as solid versions of lotion (Hand and Body Balm) and cleansers that are easy to carry in your pocket or bag without taking up too much space.
With the correct methods in place, you’ll be able to enjoy clear skin even on the go because who wants anything to get in the way of an adventure?
Are you planning a big adventure into nature or somewhere more urban? This means you need powerful sun protection for your skin, mainly because the sun’s rays are more potent in certain regions. Here are your must-haves before you hit the road:
It would be best to have a sunscreen labelled broad spectrum with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15 or higher to protect against UVA/UVB rays. Don’t forget to reapply every 2 hours.
Lip balms with SPF are essential to keep your lips hydrated and protected from heated conditions and wind chapping, so bring one in your bag.
We all know the sun is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, so be sure to have protective headwear handy. Wide-brim hats with breathable fabric will help shield your face from UV rays anytime. This also helps keep your skin cool in hot climates.
For extra hydration, face creams with SPF act as a primer and moisturiser in one while protecting against the sun’s rays. When going outdoors, try mineral-based lotions or creams containing zinc oxide, which provides excellent coverage without leaving a greasy residue on your skin, as chemical-based products can.
As you embark on your next big adventure, don’t forget the essentials for keeping the bugs at bay. Whether travelling near or far or trekking outdoors, taking precautions against insects that may transmit diseases and infections is essential. Here are a few tips to consider when packing your skincare items:
A powerful mosquito repellent can be an invaluable addition to your bag. Pick a product that explicitly targets mosquitoes and other biting insects that may be problematic in your travelling area. When travelling in areas with disease-carrying bugs, remember to look for a product with DEET, an ingredient that helps protect from Zika, West Nile virus and Lyme disease.
Deet contains some quite nasty chemicals, and when travelling in safer zones, you may wish to consider alternative natural repellents, products with citronella and lemon eucalyptus, as well as geraniol, to be quite effective.
Essential oils like lavender, cajuput and tea tree have also been known to help. These are most suitable for areas with less disease risk, and one can apply them directly to the skin, clothing, and bedding.
Bug-repellent clothing is another fantastic way to keep bugs away. You don’t need to wear heavy covering; instead, opt for light materials like cotton blends treated with bug repellents such as permethrin or picaridin that last up to 6-12 washes. In addition to keeping the creepy crawlies away, this type of clothing is also designed for breathability without compromising your comfort during travel or outdoor activities.
It sounds simple but always stays covered with lightweight layers when outside. This can include long sleeve shirts, long pants and hats with brims when walking in areas where there may be lots of mosquito activity (especially during dawn and dusk). This also applies when trekking outdoors; always wear clothing that covers all exposed skin to minimise chances of getting bitten by ticks or other insects while enjoying nature.
When moisturising, you must ensure that any skin care product you use can handle an adventure’s long, dusty days and changing temperatures. A good moisturiser should give you the hydration you need without feeling greasy.
Luckily, there are many great moisturisers explicitly made for adventurers. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a moisturiser:
First and foremost, look for a product with SPF protection. Not only will this protect your skin from the harsh rays of the sun, but it will also help counteract sweat and dust that come with adventuring (which can dry out and damage your skin).
Humectants keep your skin hydrated by drawing water molecules from their surroundings into your skin. Look for products that include humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid so your skin stays hydrated no matter where or what outdoor activity you’re doing.
Antioxidants like vitamin C can help fight free radicals in air pollution so as not to damage your skin. Ensure your moisturiser has built-in antioxidants to ensure every part of your adventure is safe for your skin.
For even more protection, consider using multiple layers of moisturisers: a lightweight layer under heavier creams or oils when faced with extreme exposure to heat or cold. With the right products, you’ll be able to stay comfortable and enjoy every moment of your next big adventure!
Green travel isn’t just about recycling and not littering; it’s also about choosing products with natural ingredients so your environmental contributions are minimal. When it comes to skincare, there are a few things you can do to achieve this.
If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option for your next adventure, look for skincare products and cosmetics that use natural materials like plant-based oils, plant extracts and beeswax. These ingredients are sustainable and organic and will be gentle on your skin.
Synthetic fragrances often contain harmful chemicals that can cause irritation or allergies in some people. Natural fragrances derived from essential oils will be much better (and smell great).
Smaller packaging is generally better for skin care products, not only because it takes up less space in your backpack or suitcase but also because it means less plastic waste and fewer emissions during production.
By opting for natural materials, avoiding synthetic fragrances and choosing smaller packaging options for your skincare products, you can ensure your travels are greener than ever!
Ready to hit the road with your skincare in tow? Pay extra attention to what’s in your sun care, moisturising, and hygiene products to ensure you’re ditching the synthetic stuff and avoiding potentially harmful ingredients.
For all other activities, practice an outdoor lifestyle, and incorporate some of nature’s relaxing, nourishing activities. From gardening and farming to painting and photography, there are various ways to find personal growth and restoration.
And lastly, don’t forget to make sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent a part of your travel essentials. Enjoy a worry-free, great outing with your friends while protecting your skin and ensuring your tours remain enjoyable and memorable. Here’s to your next big adventure!
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