The Skin Care Products Dermatologists Never Travel Without
Traveling can present quite a conundrum for your skin. On the one hand, dry plane cabins and new climates can irritate it, leading to dryness or breakouts. On the other, limited luggage real estate and the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids make it tough to pack all of your products, especially if you have a more extensive skin care routine.
To navigate the most effective and efficient way to keep your skin in top shape while traveling, we tapped four dermatologists who have their vacation skin care routines down to a science.
Why travel is so taxing on your skin
If you’ve noticed your skin tends to look its worst in your vacation photos, you’re not alone. “Traveling, especially by plane, can lead to dehydration and irritation due to the dry air and changes in climate,” said Jody A. Levine, a dermatologist with Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in New York City. “Additionally, exposure to environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution can affect the skin.”
“Common aggressors include dry airplane air, changes in climate, increased exposure to the sun, and disruptions in regular skin care routines,” added Kautilya Shaurya, a dermatologist with Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. “Each can lead to dehydration, breakouts or sensitivity.”
Whether you’re traveling to a warmer or cooler climate, each destination comes with its own set of challenges for your epidermis. “Increased sun exposure and humidity in a warm climate can lead to excess oil production and sweat, which can cause breakouts and clogged pores,” noted Jeannette Graf, a dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.
Plus, you’ll be more susceptible to sunburns. “Especially if you are traveling from more wintery, less sunny conditions to a sunny place, your skin will not be accustomed to the strength of the sun and you may burn more easily,” said Dendy Engelman, a cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon practicing at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in New York City. “Even in colder, cloudy climates, the sun’s UV rays can still penetrate clouds and cause harm to your skin.”
Meanwhile, “traveling to colder climates can increase dryness and irritation,” which can result in redness, flaking, and eczema flare-ups, added Graf.
When traveling, dermatologists never skimp on the skin care essentials
To balance this, there are a few skin care products dermatologists never travel without. The essentials include a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, lip balm, and an SPF product.
“I like the Cerave Hydrating Cleanser for everyday use as it is gentle and hydrating,” said Graf, who also uses the brand’s moisturizer. As for sunscreen, Graf relies on a product with an SPF rating of 30 or higher. “I frequently travel with Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen as it is lightweight and goes on clear.” Lastly, Graf won’t fly without lip balm “as my lips will get chapped easily during travel and it is important to keep them moisturized while on a plane.”
If you’re traveling by plane, add a hand sanitizer to your stash. “We can transfer a lot of bacteria from our hands to our faces,” noted Engelman. “One thing I’ll never travel without is Touchland’s Gentle Mist Hand Sanitizer. It’s the perfect travel size and TSA-approved to pop in your carry-on. It not only fights germs but soothes skin and boosts hydration.”
Meanwhile, it’s fine to “leave behind heavy oils, some serums, and less essential or bulky items,” noted Shaurya. Graf doesn’t bother packing retinoids, exfoliating cleansers, vitamin C or treatment products like masks.
Dermatologists recommend reapplying hydrating and SPF products midflight
Though it may be tempting to toss your regular full-size skin care products in your checked bag, it’s better to keep certain items in your carry-on (so, yes, in travel-size containers) to replenish your skin throughout your journey.
“Planes can tend to be a very dry environment due to having recycled air and low humidity levels, which will lead to dehydration and thus overall moisture loss which will mainly show on the face and lips and leave you with a dull complexion,” explained Graf. “[I carry] lip balm and a light moisturizer to ensure my skin stays hydrated and doesn’t lose any of its natural hydration while on a plane.”
If you want to up your moisture levels even further, “a hydrating mist can also be refreshing,” Shaurya said. “For particularly long flights, I use a hydrating face mask with hyaluronic acid.”
You may be surprised to learn they apply sunscreen on planes as well. “On planes, we are closer to the sun by 30,000 feet, putting our skin at greater risk for sunburn, damage, and aging,” Engelman explained. “I always have SPF on hand to reapply throughout the flight, especially because I love a window seat!”
Consider your destination when choosing additional skin care items to pack
Sun protection is essential no matter where you’re headed, but while an SPF 30 rating may suffice for your ski vacation, a beach destination requires more protection. “If you are going to a particularly sunny climate, consider bumping up the SPF of your sunscreen to protect against the stronger rays of the sun,” Engelman suggested.
For warm-climate vacations, Levine recommended “lightweight, oil-free moisturizers,” which can help stave off sweat-induced breakouts. “In cooler climates, the air tends to be drier, so you should use hydrating products to combat dryness and protect your skin.”
Take precautions when transferring any skin care products into travel-size containers
When transferring products into travel-size containers to comply with TSA regulations, “you should use clean, sanitized, non-leak containers and wear gloves to minimize the risk of contamination,” advised Levine.
However, “there are certain products that are light sensitive or require special packaging or maintenance” to keep their effectiveness, Shaurya said. “These include but are not limited to retinoids, vitamin C, [benzoyl peroxide, alpha-hydroxy acids, and beta-hydroxy acids]. Always read the packaging on the product to make sure what the requirements are for proper storage.”
The easiest and safest route, noted Engelman, is to purchase travel-size versions of your favorite products that are already in the proper, sanitized containers if they’re available.
Need a good SPF for your flight? Try one of these top-rated sunscreens.
HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Sephora
Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30
Alongside our readers, both Pamela Anderson and Hailey Bieber are fans of Summer Fridays’ ShadeDrops SPF 30 mineral sunscreen. It's a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight, naturally radiant finish that protects from UV rays while also providing nourishing ingredients to the skin. Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients, this sunscreen is formulated with zinc oxide, squalane, chamomile and an antioxidant blend of vitamin E and ethyl ferulate. They work together to shield the skin from sun damage and to hydrate, soften and smooth the skin and protect against further damage from free radicals.
Sephora
Supergoop! Mineral Sheer Screen SPF 30
Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, recommended this reader-fave screenie. "This is a 100% mineral sunscreen product that offers SPF 30 protection," Camp said. "The labeling also includes information about protection from UVA radiation, PA (protection grade of UVA), which many sunscreens do not report." It also shields the skin from blue light. It's completely sheer so you don't have to worry about a white cast and has a lightweight finish that won't weigh your skin down.
Amazon
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face mineral sunscreen SPF 50
"This lightweight, non-greasy product provides SPF 50 protection and contains zinc oxide as the active ingredient," Camp said. It's specially formulated with antioxidants to be water-resistant, is naturally sourced and dries down quickly without leaving a greasy finish.
Sephora
Supergoop! Glow Screen SPF 40
High on my personal list of sunscreen essentials is Supergoop! Glow Screen, and I'm thrilled to see it is one of our readers' top picks from our chemical sunscreen story. It's what I reach for when I want a hint of tint and shimmer. It's basically your skin, but better — plus sun protection. It's available in four different shades and has a slightly heavier finish than other chemical sunscreens, in part because of the tint component. But since it essentially replaces foundation for me, I don't mind that it isn't as lightweight as others. The pearlescent finish gives skin an immediate glow while hyaluronic acid and niacinamide hydrate, nurture and help to diminish the look of common signs of aging. This was also a top reader pick from our article featuring sunscreens with anti-aging ingredients!
Dermstore
SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense sunscreen
Along with the rest of the SkinCeuticals line, HuffPost readers swarm to this popular, luxurious sunscreen. Not only does the chemical formulation protect against sun damage, it claims to actively work to diminish the look of discoloration, helping to brighten and even out skin tone thanks to ingredients like tranexamic acid and niacinamide. Reflective pigments help to give the skin an immediate glow, making it ideal for someone looking to perk up their skin quickly and visibly. This was also a top pick from our article about the best sunscreens with anti-aging ingredients!
Stylevana
Beauty of Joseon probiotic SPF 50+
If you're a fan of Korean beauty products, then you're going to want to stock up on this gorgeous sunscreen. It's wildly popular among the skin care set, with everyone from beauty lovers to influencers touting its skin-enhancing abilities. It's my go-to daily sunscreen — primarily because it perfectly splits the difference between a fluid and a cream — and I'm thrilled to see it top the chemical sunscreen list of faves. It has a bit more grip than a fluid finish but doesn't feel as heavy or oily as a full-on cream or moisturizer. I rarely get more compliments than when I head out wearing this sunscreen and a touch of concealer. As with all Korean beauty products, it's important to remember to only purchase via reputable sites like Stylevana. It does take about two to three weeks to arrive, so I usually order two at a time to tide me over, but each tube lasts around three months, making it worth the already low price and shipping wait time.
Amazon
Round Lab moisturizing birch juice sun cream
According to Flores' previous article on Korean and Japanese beauty sunscreens, "this hydrating daily sun cream by Round Lab is lightweight, non-greasy and fast-absorbing and doesn't leave a white cast. The broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula feels cool and refreshing on the skin and contains both birch tree sap and hyaluronic acid to help keep skin moisturized throughout the day." It was one of HuffPost readers' top three picks and with good reason!
Amazon
Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen Water Essence facial sunscreen
Shopping writer Tessa Flores pointed out in previous coverage that, "A prime example of water-based Japanese sunscreens, Bioré UV's Aqua Rich SPF 50 sun essence is a feather-light and oil-free gel formula that feels virtually undetectable on the skin and is compatible with all skin types including those who are acne-prone. It's infused with hyaluronic acid for lasting hydration and breathable protection that layers seamlessly under makeup." No wonder HuffPost readers couldn't get enough.
Stylevana
Isntree hyaluronic acid watery sun gel
Both Flores and myself have covered this reader-beloved sunscreen in the past. It's great for people with dry skin and anyone who loves a dewy (not greasy) finish. I love that is white-cast-free and has hydrating ingredients including eight different types of hyaluronic acid to help strengthen the moisture barrier and keep skin hydrated all day long. It boasts a hypoallergenic formula that is great for those with sensitive or compromised skin, and has been a popular pick among K-beauty fans for many years.
Amazon
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk sunscreen SPF 60
If you're as big a fan of French pharmacy beauty products as I am (and according to our data, you are), try La Roche-Posay's various sunscreens. In my opinion, their Anthelios melt-in sunscreen is by far their most exciting formulation. This super lightweight SPF truly does melt into the skin, leaving it dewy, natural-looking and non-greasy while providing a whopping SPF 100 protection that is also water-resistant. Your skin will love it.
Dermstore
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense mineral sunscreen
Skin care devotees will likely be familiar with SkinCeuticals' line of high-end serums and creams, but did you know that its sun protection products are just as effective and good for your skin? You likely do now, because this was one of our bestselling water-resistant sunscreens. This has a subtle tint that gives skin a radiant glow without leaving behind a thick white cast or oily residue. It's a surprisingly lightweight mineral formula that is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and can also help to defend skin against environmental stressors.
Amazon
Vacation Classic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 travel size three-pack
I can't get enough of the entire Vacation lineup, and it was the clear frontrunner for readers looking for water-resistant sunscreen. It has a really clean, lightweight finish that disappears into the skin leaving behind a delicious coconut-forward summery scent. It is easy to rub into skin and is water-resistant, making it ideal for all manner of summertime activities. It's also packed with skin-friendly ingredients like vitamin E, niacinamide, banana extract, aloe vera and coconut oil that help to soothe, soften and nourish skin. You can't go wrong with a three-pack of travel sized options from Amazon, just pop one in each of your bags and in your bathroom cabinet for easy access. Or you can purchase them individually and full-size at Ulta.
Amazon
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 sunscreen
You can't go wrong with sunscreen classic, Sun Bum — no wonder it's a HuffPost readers' top pick at Amazon. This moisturizing sunscreen lotion is clearly a crowd favorite. It's oxybenzone-, octinoxate- and oil-free, plus water-resistant.
Sephora
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen spf 40
This cult-favorite and HP reader-favorite sunscreen from Supergoop has a clear, lightweight and unscented formula so you don't have to deal with an irritating white cast. It's also oil-free and great for anyone who might have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Amazon
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen
Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer sunscreen is lightweight and fast-absorbing, making it especially ideal for use on hot summer days. It even provides up to 80 minutes of water resistance — no wonder it's a popular reader go-to.
Dermstore
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light sunscreen SPF 50
According to Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist at MCDS Dermatology, "This ultralight sunscreen fluid is mineral-based, containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, but also offers a fast-absorbing, lightweight texture. It is easy to apply and also offers antioxidant protection." It's also one of HuffPost readers' favorite options for mature skin.
Amazon
CeraVe hydrating mineral sunscreen SPF 50
Garshick noted that "[t]his hydrating formulation contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum coverage. In addition, it contains hyaluronic acid to help provide moisture, ceramides to help support the skin’s natural barrier as well as niacinamide which can soothe the skin. This mineral sunscreen is fragrance- and paraben-free making it a good option even for those with dry or sensitive skin." Readers agree!
Walmart
La Roche Posay Anthelios XL 50 Anti-Shine Dry Touch gel-cream SPF 50+
Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama personally uses this sunscreen. He says it "applies easily and doesn't leave the skin feeling extra shiny or sticky. It also doesn't leave a white cast on my skin." It absorbs quickly and has soothing antioxidant ingredients that HuffPost readers can't get enough of.
