Beautiful Skin on the Go

Traveling can take a toll on your body, especially your skin. Below are a few tips, as provided by Dr. Howard Murad, a well-known dermatologist, on how to keep your skin looking beautiful and fresh during a getaway.

Recycled air in airplanes or air conditioning in vehicles tends to dry out skin and cause irritation. Your best bet for dry skin caused by dry air—even dry winter air—is to wear a moisturizing lotion. While on that plane, munch on water-filled snacks such as fruit or celery. Those salty airline pretzels and caffeine-filled drinks will only make you more dehydrated.

If you choose to travel via car, keeping the windows rolled down is a great way to feel the breeze on your face. Keep in mind that the sun, in combination with wind, acts as a vacuum for your skin’s moisture levels. Keeping the windows up doesn’t offer complete protection. Rays that penetrate glass will dehydrate and damage skin. Sunscreen is your best bet to retain moisture while on the road.

Travel can be stressful—and stress affects skin on cellular levels. If you’re traveling with friends, laugh, sing along to music, and have fun! If you’re alone and feeling stressed by traffic, try breathing exercises or listening to relaxing music to calm down.

The holiday season is an even more stressful time to travel for several reasons: airlines are packed, and you’re going to see your mother-in-law who always criticizes your haircut. Yet there are ways to de-stress! Getting enough sleep is a good way to ensure healthy skin. When you sleep, your entire body, including your skin, goes into “recovery mode.” Avoid excessive drinking at parties, too; alcohol dehydrates. If your mother-in law is bothering you that much, opt for water between drinks. Your skin (and body) will thank you the next day.

If you choose to ditch out on family holiday gatherings and go on a relaxing Caribbean cruise instead, there are still a few skin woes to watch for. Again, use your sunscreen. And apply it more often since you’ll be closer to the sun than back at home. While eating, load up on carrots, kale, and sweet potatoes (and fruit, especially mangoes!) to boost collagen production and stay hydrated.

Dr. Murad also offers a skin-care line. More information is available online at murad.com.