Many people, especially those with sensitive skin, know that it can be difficult to maintain a healthy complexion when they’re on vacation. Travelling to a different climate can really throw your skin off-balance, and increased sun exposure can really wreak havoc when it comes to pigmentation and signs of ageing. As someone who has travels far, wide and often, I can’t afford to let my skin care habits slip when I’m away from home. I’ve got my travel beauty routine down to a fine art, and now I’m going to share my top tips with you so that you don’t come back from vacation sun burned or with too many blemishes.

Put Down the Retinol

Retinol increases cell turnover, which is great for the skin but the downside is that it also increases sun sensitivity. Therefore, you may want to take a break from using your retinol or retinoid cream while on vacation. Retinol can also dry out the skin and make it more sensitive, so leave it behind and resume use when you get home.

Don’t Exfoliate

I don’t recommend exfoliating for at least a week before you leave for  vacation. Exfoliating increases sun sensitivity, which means that when you go out in the sun after exfoliating your skin will burn more easily and be at risk for developing pigmentation or dark spots.

Double Down on Sunscreen

Now, ask any skinfluencer and they’ll tell you that you should wear sunscreen all day, every day, whether you’re in or outdoors. However, this is doubly important when you’re sunning yourself on vacation. Choose an SPF 50, broad spectrum sun screen and make sure that it’s one you actually enjoy applying, because you should ideally top up every hour.

Here are some of my favorite sunscreens that don’t leave me feeling greasy. Remember to apply at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun and reapply every hour or each time you get out of the water.

Click here for for a guide to mineral vs chemical sunscreen.

Use Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant that can reduce oxidative stress and damage caused by the sun. This means it’s great for maintaining healthy skin on vacation. I like to use my SkinCeuticals Vitamin-C Serum every morning under sunscreen to protect against UV rays and other environmental aggressors such  as pollution.

Apply your vitamin C serum after cleansing and then wait for it to absorb for a few minutes before applying your SPF. Here are my two all-time favorites.

Wear a Stylish Hat and Sunnies

A great hat and some killer sunglasses won’t just make you look cool – they’ll also protect your skin from the sun’s rays.  I like to wear a hat with a wide brim and a pair of sunglasses with high UV protection and polarised lenses for extra comfort – my eyes are super sensitive after having laser surgery, so I can’t be too careful!

Use a Hydrating Face Mask

It’s important to stay hydrated on vacation, and that is doubly true when it comes to your skin. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or visiting dryer climates, use a hydrating face mask every few days so that your skin stays plump and smooth with no signs of flakiness.

Employ a Heavy Duty Eye Cream 

The thin, delicate skin around your eyes is extremely susceptible to high temperatures and sun exposure, so using a rich moisturizing formula will help to plump up fine lines that are more visible when dehydrated. Here are some of my favourite products to choose from.

Use a Silk Face Covering 

Wherever you’re going, you’ll probably need a face covering when you’re out and about and you’ll definitely need one for on the plane. Avoid maskne by using a luxurious silk face covering. Silk doesn’t cause as much friction against the skin as cotton or nylon, so it doesn’t irritate your face and trigger breakouts. I love this one from Slip – and so do a whole host of celebrities.

For more on travel and beauty, be sure to check out:

• The Travel Beauty Products I Can’t Live Without
• The Best Self-Tanners on the Market
• How to Prep Your Skin for Swimsuit Season
• How to Care for Sun-Damaged Hair