A Guide to Health, Skin and Hair Care When Travelling
Travelling is wonderful for the soul, but it isn’t always so kind to your body. From long-haul flights to days spent in sun, snow, or salt water, your skin, hair and overall health can quickly feel the effects of life on the road. The good news? With a little planning and a few smart products, you can feel happy and healthy wherever your adventures take you. Here’s my guide to outdoor skin and haircare and looking after yourself on the go.
KEEP HYDRATED INSIDE AND OUT
The golden rule of wellness while you travel the world is hydration. Airplanes and high altitudes can zap moisture from your body, so always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever you can. Add an electrolyte tablet if you’re hiking, biking, or spending long days in the sun – it’ll help your body absorb water faster.
For your skin, pack a light but hardworking moisturiser. I discovered Cosrx Korean skincare solutions this year, and now these skin-friendly products are all I pack for international travel. The masks are great for jetlagged faces, the aloe sunscreens feel lovely in tropical destinations and the vitamin C serum really brightens skin. You can buy Korean skincare online from a wide range of trusted retailers. A travel-sized hydrating mist is also a lifesaver on flights or dusty bus rides – a quick spritz will refresh your face and stop dryness before it sets in.
SUN, SNOW AND WIND PROTECTION
Whether you’re skiing in the Alps or surfing in Bali, the elements are a big challenge for your skin. Sunscreen is your best friend – pick a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply regularly, even on cloudy or snowy days (snow glare is sneaky!). Lip balm with SPF is another essential – windburn and sunburned lips are no fun. If you’re surfing or swimming in the ocean, swap to a reef-friendly sunscreen or use zinc. If you’re in very cold or windy places, look for rich balms and barrier creams that shield your skin from sun and wind. For tropical climates, go for lighter formulas that won’t clog your pores.
TRAVEL-FRIENDLY HAIR CARE
Changing climates, salt water, and hotel showers with mystery shampoo can leave your hair looking frazzled. A solid shampoo bar is a brilliant travel companion – eco-friendly, spill-proof, and small enough to pop into your carry-on. Pair it with a solid conditioner, leave-in spray or a dab of hair oil to tame frizz after a day in the sun or sea.
If you’re going to be in and out of the ocean, try braiding your hair to prevent tangles and protect it from salt damage. A wide-toothed comb is another essential – gentle detangling is better than tugging at knots. And a hat or bandana will shield your scalp from the sun when hiking.
SLEEP AND RECOVERY ON THE ROAD
Your body needs time to rest and reset when you’re jetting around the world. Sleep masks and earplugs are worth their weight in gold on night buses and in noisy hostels. If you struggle with jet lag, try a soothing essential oil roller to help you drift off.
For aching muscles after long hikes, yoga stretches and magnesium bath soaks (if you’ve got access to a tub) can work wonders. If not, pack a roll-on heat lotion or a cooling gel – they’re brilliant for sore legs and shoulders.
EATING WELL WHILE EXPLORING
It’s easy to live off snacks and convenience food when you’re on the road, but your skin and body will thank you for a bit of balance. Fresh fruit from local markets, nuts, and simple meals with protein will keep your energy up. Don’t forget to pack a stash of your favourite multivitamins or probiotics – travel can be tough on your digestion.
PACK SMART AND SIMPLE
When it comes to travel beauty and health care, less is more. Multi-use products are your friend, such as soaps that double as body wash, shampoo, and even laundry detergent, while a tinted lip balm can replace lipstick and blush. Decant your favourites into travel-sized bottles, or even better, invest in solid products that don’t count towards liquid limits at the airport.
Looking after your skin, hair and health while travelling doesn’t need to be complicated. With a little preparation and a few clever products, you can stay hydrated, protected, and glowing wherever the road (or the trail) takes you. After all, the best souvenirs from any adventure are happy memories – not sunburn or split ends.
