Travel essentials: Sunscreen, cleanser, moisturiser, sheet masks, leave-in conditioners and hydrating shampoos will all help when you’re out and about all day (Image: Canva)
Planning to travel and don’t know what to pack for your skin and hair care? While you may be tempted to carry only a few items to save space, also remember that travelling and a new destination puts extra strain on your skin and hair. Colder climates can dry out your skin and hair, while a beach holiday will make your skin more oily and hair more frizzy.
So be sure to pack products that are hydrating and will cleanse your skin and hair properly. Sunscreen, cleanser, moisturiser, sheet masks, leave-in conditioners and hydrating shampoos will all help when you’re out and about all day.
Story continues below Advertisement
Here’s a practical guide to help keep you glowing and feeling your best while traveling.
Skin care essentials
Sunscreen is the top priority to protect against sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Pack a broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher; opt for water-resistant if you’re at the beach or pool. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
Use a gentle cleanser to remove sunscreen, sweat, and impurities without stripping moisture. Take a travel-size, sulfate-free cleanser suited to your skin type. Cleanse twice daily to maintain refreshed, clear skin.
When you’re out and about, your skin needs more hydration to prevent it from drying out. Travelling and different climates can also dry out skin faster. Pack a lightweight moisturizer with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Choose a gel moisturizer for humid climates and a richer cream for dry ones.
- Antioxidant serum (vitamin C)
These protect against sun-induced free radical damage and promote an even skin tone. Use a vitamin C serum under your sunscreen every morning. Look for a stabilised formula for hot locations.
- After-sun care (aloe vera or hydrating mist)
If you’ve been out in the sun all day, use aloe vera gel or a mist with cucumber or green tea to calms your skin and hydrate it to reduce irritation. Store in the fridge if possible for an extra cooling effect.
Lips are sensitive to UV damage and can dry out easily. Pack a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher and reapply throughout the day to keep your lips soft and protected.
- Exfoliating scrub (optional)
Exfoliation can keep skin smooth and prep it so your other products can be absorbed better. Use a gentle scrub 2-3 times weekly. Avoid harsh exfoliants in high-sun conditions, as they can increase sensitivity.
Sheet masks can provide a hydration boost to your skin after long flights or days in the sun. Use a sheet mask with hyaluronic acid or cucumber at night for a refreshing boost before bed.
Hair care essentials
- Leave-in conditioner or hair serum
Your hair is more prone to drying out and damage when you’re travelling. A leave in conditioner or serum with UV protection can shield your hair from sun, salt, and chlorine damage. Apply this before going out in the sun to prevent dryness and colour fading.
- Moisturising shampoo and conditioner
Take travel-size moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that will hydrate your hair, counteracting the drying effects of sun and salt. If you are spend time out on the beach or in the pool, make sure you rinse your hair with fresh water before and after swimming to limit salt and chlorine absorption.
Dry shampoos are perfect for refreshing your hair between washes, perfect for hot and humid conditions. Take a travel-size dry shampoo for quick touch-ups and spray on roots and massage in for oil absorption and volume.
Use a wide-tooth comb that gently detangles wet hair, especially after saltwater or chlorine exposure. A leave-in conditioner before combing will make detangling easier.
Lightweight hair oils or serums will nourish and protect the ends of your hair, preventing frizz and adding shine. Use one with argan or coconut oil. Apply to ends after washing for smooth, shiny hair.
- Heat protectant (if using hot tools)
If you are using hot styling tools like straightener or curling irons, make sure you spray on a protectant spray to shield your hair from the drying effects of these styling tools. Use it sparingly to maintain a natural beachy texture.
- Microfibre towel or hair wrap
A microfibre towel or hair wrap reduces frizz and friction, helping hair dry faster. Gently squeeze your hair (don’t rub) with the microfiber towel to keep it smooth.
When travelling, use travel-sized containers or buy mini versions to save space and place all liquids in resealable zip-lock bags to prevent leaks.
These essentials will help you keep your skin and hair looking healthy and radiant on your holiday.
