Summer is a time when many of us plan for at least one vacation or quick get-away. While it can be wonderful to take a break from your routine, it does not necessarily mean you have to take a break from your skincare regimen. We have put together a wonderful list of the must-have skincare items to be sur you bring along on your next trip.
The Destination
Depending upon where you will be traveling, you will absolutely need to bring along many of your usual products. If you are planning to visit an area where you will be sure to encounter lots of sunshine, a variety of sunscreens should definitely be in your bag!
Essential Item #1: Sunscreen
If there is any item we recommend that you do not go without, it is sunscreen! Sunscreen is the foundation of any skin care and anti-aging regimen. You will want to pack a tried-and-true product made specifically for your face and additional products for your body. Be sure to apply sunscreen on your face each morning and throughout the day to maintain your protection, especially if you anticipate sweating or will be swimming. Aim for an SPF of at least 30 for optimal results. Depending on your location, pack plenty of sunscreen for your body as well. Keep in mind that popular vacation destinations and resorts may charge significantly more for their sunscreen if you purchase it on-site than if you were to pack your own.
Essential Item #2: A Gentle Cleanser
We recommend cleansing your face twice daily with a gentle non-soap cleanser. Hotels and resorts often provide basic cleansers for their guests, however leaving that up to chance is a last resort for us. Be sure to bring your own, especially if you have sensitive skin. Removing sunscreen and makeup at the end of the day is key for keeping your skin healthy and your pores clear.
Essential Item #3: A Face Moisturizer
This is non-negotiable for your skin, especially if you have enjoyed a long day out in the sun. Sun exposure, even with sunscreen use, can dry out the skin and we recommend replenishing it each evening with a tried-and-true product you enjoy.
Essential Item #4: A Wide-Brimmed Hat
We know this may be a tougher one to pack in your suitcase, however it is worth it, we promise. Visors and baseball caps do not provide enough protection of the tops of our head and ears or the back of our neck. This is why we recommend at least a three-inch brim on all hats for adequate coverage.
Essential Item #5: Sunglasses
If you have transitional prescription lenses for your eyeglasses, you already have this covered. For all others, protect your eyes from sun damage and UV exposure by wearing sunglasses that are manufactured to shield against UV rays as much as possible when you plan to be out in the sun.
Essential Item #6: Sun Protective Clothing
Whether you are planning to be at the beach, out sight-seeing, or on a golf course, sun-protective clothing is a must. While these types of garments do not replace sunscreen, they help to provide another layer of protection when we are out and about. Look for a UPF factor of at least 50 and try garments such as rash guards, shirts, and light cardigans for on the go.
Essential Item #7: Your Daily Anti-Aging Products
If you have enough space left in your luggage or carry-on, try to bring your daily anti-aging products with you. This may include a vitamin C serum for the morning and topical retinoids at night in addition to eye creams and neck creams. Only carry on what is allowed by the TSA and remember you can always put these in a sealed zip top plastic bag in your luggage. We do not recommend moving them out of their original containers as some products need special protection against UV exposure.
That is a wrap for this month’s blog. We hope that you have a very enjoyable vacation while staying safe in the sun!
Are You In Need of More Dermatology Advice?
The Derm NP is a unique dermatology practice that provides online dermatology consultations. Laura Collins, APRN, ANP-BC, DCNP, ACTTP, the provider at The Derm NP, provides exceptional dermatological care. Her experience and enthusiasm for the dermatology field means that you are receiving expert care by a practitioner who loves her specialty and continuously seeks educational opportunities to provide her patients with the most innovative treatments possible.
We provide care for non-urgent dermatological conditions via telehealth visits, through which we strive to provide top-notch care that considers your schedule. Contact us at (630) 233-9767 or thedermnp@thedermnp.com for an appointment to help you look your very best.