It’s no secret that traveling can wreak havoc on the skin. Changing the climate, switching up a regular diet and veering out of the usual routine are some of the main culprits. Add the stress associated with packing, the anxiety of getting to your destination, and no wonder the skin is acting out! But it’s not all doom and gloom. The good news is there are ways to help keep your skin balanced, clear and refreshed. To make things easier (read: less stressful) I’ve compiled a list of fool-proof tips that will help manage your skincare needs, ensuring the trip is a success whether you’re traveling for business or for fun.
Double Cleanse
Regardless of how jam-packed your travels might be, this is no excuse to skimp on double cleansing. It is probably the step that has had the biggest impact on how my skin looks and feels when I’m away from my typical surroundings. You can find a detailed guide on How To Double Cleanse here.
When I travel, I like to pack a multi-purpose cleanser that works equally well to remove makeup and spf, as well as to cleanse the skin. The ELEMIS Pro-Radiance Cream Cleanser is a product I’ve used for years. It effortlessly removes all traces of makeup without tugging at the skin, while prepping and priming my complexion to better absorb nutrients provided by masks, serums and moisturizers I apply after. Formulated with active fragrances of sweet Brazilian orange, lavender, ylang-ylang, patchouli, burdock and moringa seed peptides, this anti-aging cleanser helps balance the skin while defending against daily pollutants. There are a lot of options when it comes to cleansers and I always suggest experimenting with different types of textures to see what your skin responds best to.
Pamper with a Face Mask
A face mask is the non-essential essential that makes all the difference. I never used to travel with my face masks in tow, as masking on a trip seemed like an unnecessary indulgence, better left for those rare evenings at home when I had time for a pampering session. But skin is more susceptible and prone to changes when you travel and a face mask can provide instant gratification. It penetrates the skin levels deeper than a cleanser and you are able to see visible results right away. There are masks for just about any skincare concern: there are exfoliating, detoxifying, clarifying, purifying and hydrating masks just to name a few.
Since space (or lack thereof) is always at the forefront of my mind when packing, I typically opt for products that tick several boxes at once. For instance, my go-to mask for traveling is the ELEMIS Papaya Enzyme Peel, a super gentle mask, that exfoliates, purifies and revitalizes my complexion. It contains nourishing milk proteins, antioxidant-rich vitamin E and marine algae to repair and protect skin, in addition to exfoliating papaya and calming pineapple to smooth and clarify. It’s non-abrasive and perfect for my sensitive skin. I love how it can instantly revive my complexion, lifting it from a dull and lifeless state.
Indulge in Hydrating Creams
Hydrating your skin is a must whether you’re traveling to the tropics or heading to the mountains! Pay attention to your skin type and select a moisturizer that is light enough for daytime and suitable for the sensitive eye area, but rich enough for nighttime. A double duty moisturizer you can use in the AM as well as in the PM, will save you space when packing and also ensure you won’t compromise your skincare needs.
Soothe Your Body
Our bodies carry a large portion of the stress and anxiety associated with a change in environment and routine. A great way to ensure your body is not depleted of moisture at the end of a long traveling day is to use products that will cleanse and hydrate at the same time. A shower cream, such as the ELEMIS Frangipani Manoi, is one such skin-friendly formula that gently polishes the skin without stripping it of protective oils.
While the skin is still damp, pamper your body with a nourishing oil. The oil acts as a barrier to lock in the moisture and provide long-lasting hydration. The Frangipani Manoi Body Oil from ELEMIS is another oldie but always a goodie I first discovered back when I was pregnant with my son. It’s a multi-purpose product, light and fast-absorbing. It can be massaged over the entire body, including hands and feet, as well as into the hair. Not only does this oil keep your skin happy but it also infuses the senses with an exotic aroma of botanicals, soothing and calming a racing mind. You will wakeup rested, energized and ready for your next adventure!
Drink Water with Lemon
One of the best advice I received a few years ago when I used to travel often for work, was to always ensure I hydrate from the inside by drinking plenty of water. It’s probably also one of the most challenging steps to follow, as distractions and fun adventures make it easy to forget about. There are apps that help you track your water intake to ensure you’re drinking the recommended amount, see some here. Or if you’re like me, you make sure you’re never caught without a water bottle. A great tip is to infuse the water with lemon. This gives the water a refreshing taste and infuses the body with some much needed, revitalizing and detoxing health benefits.
Packing tips and tricks …
Target offers small plastic containers (see some here) that can be used to decant your own tried-and-true products or you can reach for samples you might have in your beauty stash. Did you know many brands offer skincare products that come in multiple sizes, making it super convenient for packing? It’s true! ELEMIS is one of my favorite skincare brands and some of their best-selling products are available in smaller, travel-friendly sizes. Their products are free of parabens, SLS, SLES, DEA, mineral oils, artificial colors, and silicones, yet highly effective and not tested on animals, all important aspects in my skincare buying book.
ELEMIS recently collaborated with British designer Misha Nonoo to create an exquisite travel set comprised of a statement cosmetic pouch filled with every single skincare essential you need, whether traveling or staying put! The travel bag itself is a work of art. It’s malleable and compact, thus can be easily squeezed into your carry-on, yet it’s sturdy to protect your products. The luxe material can be easily spot cleaned should something happen to spill, making even my worst nightmare seem more manageable!
The unique abstract print of the bag is inspired by ELEMIS iconic packaging. From the bold red of Frangipani Monoi and the teal of Pro-Collagen, to the white and royal blue of Advanced Skincare, it makes for an exciting, directional bag you can tote around wherever life takes you.
Each ELEMIS x Misha Nonoo bag contains:
– Pro-Radiance Cream Cleanser 30ml
– Balancing Lavender Toner 50ml
– White Flowers Eye & Make-Up Remover 28ml
– Papaya Enzyme Peel 15ml
– Pro-Collagen Marine Cream 30ml
– Frangipani Monoi Shower Cream 50ml
– Frangipani Monoi Body Oil 35ml
So now that I’ve got traveling sorted, it’s time to sail off to my next adventure (everything always documented on my Instagram Story of course, simply follow me on @DailyCatL )!
Bon Voyage!
This is NOT a sponsored post but it does contain referral links. Read my Disclaimer policy for more info.
Kris says
This bag looks so cool! Lovely products, I definitely need to check some of these out!
Have an amazing day!
xx Kris
https://dreamingofpink.wordpress.com
Cat says
Thank you for stopping by. ELEMIS is one of my favorite skincare brands, definitely give them a try! One of my Holy Grail products is their Pro Collagen Cleansing balm and I’m also a big fan of their body oils! ~ Cat L.
Edra says
Absolutely love this post and I can’t agree more with everything you wrote.I was not aware of that Elemis collab but will have a look for it as seems such a great deal to get all these products altogether.
I have to mention that I love that picture of you holding the hat at the beach ,so beautiful ????
Cat says
Oh Edra, thank you so much, you’re so sweet! So so glad you enjoyed the post and found it helpful! I simply adore this collaboration. They’ve curated some of their best-selling products all housed in a super chic and elegant pouch! Can’t recommend this enough! ~ Cat L.
JCJACOBSOFFICIAL says
Cat, I need to try this before my next travel. As always it’s refreshing to read your honest opinion/review on products. ♡♡♡
Lifestyle-Tale by Esther says
Thank you for sharing these tips. I travel a lot for work lately and this is challenging.
Starting from forgetting to drink enough and not having all my products with me I need.
Have a great weekend.
Love, Esther
https://lifestyle-tale.com/ballerina-moment/
Jenny says
Stunning photos Cat! I agree, skin can get extra fickle with all the changes that happen while traveling so it’s super important to pack products that will meet those needs. I also try to pack products that can multi-task as it’s a great way to save on space – gotta leave room for souvenirs! 😛
Elemis sounds like such a wonderful brand, their cream cleanser sounds especially lovely!
Jenny | Geeky Posh
Dom says
Cat,
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your post. You covered every aspect of managing skin care and the oil sounds so exquisite! It is on my list to try! Enjoy sailing into your next adventure my beautiful friend!
xx
Dom
http://www.calibeaute.com
Anxhela says
Lovely bag filled with some beautiful products – thank you for your detailed review of each one of them.
You look radiant as ever and I thoroughly enjoyed the post. Xox
Esnath says
Firstly those white sands, simply an amazing place you live Cat. Now Elemis I love every single product I have used and thoroughly enjoyed the procollogen marine cream being the all time favourite. Papaya enzyme peel is the queen of gentle exfoliation before all these other products existed what a beautiful post, stunning images loved reading it all.
Ambi says
Stunning pictures dear !! lovely products filled in bag 🙂 x
http://www.ambiinwonderland.com
Kédidja says
Such a pleasure to read you and love all your tips ! This set is really perfect for travelling 🙂 Need to try some Elemis skincare as you and Kelly always recommend them ! I’m sure they’re awesome ! Kisses and have a lot of adventures ! It’s also a pleasure to watch your ig story 😉 xx
Kédidja ~ beautymoodboard.com
Kelly says
First things fist I love the shot of you at sea! Just beautiful.
You know I am a HUGE ELemis fan and their collaborations are always spot on and great value for money too. I also have to agree that water is a big player as you said! I only drink Sparkling water with lemon/lime when it comes to soft drinks and I notice when I don’t drink it! A great post as always Cat both stunning photos that make me want it all, again! Kelly xx
http://www.KELLiLASH.com
Nina Az says
Traveling is always a drag when you know you have to pack for your trip diligently. Thanks for the great tips, I’m also loving these bags and the ample amount of Elemis products it comes with! Great read and Amazing pics as usual Cat!