The holiday season brings joy, excitement, and new adventures—but it can also be challenging for your skin. Between cold airport terminals, dry cabin air, and drastic changes in humidity, travel puts your skin’s barrier to the test. If you’ve ever stepped off a plane feeling tight, dull, or irritated, you’re not alone. But with a few expert-backed strategies and the right products, your skin can stay balanced and radiant throughout your travels.

At Pacific Crest Dermatology, we believe preparation and consistency are the keys to healthy skin wherever you go. Here’s how to maintain your glow this holiday season.

Understanding How Travel Affects Your Skin

Travel takes skin out of its comfort zone. Airplane air has very low humidity—often below 20 percent—which pulls moisture from your skin. Temperature and climate changes, along with stress, dehydration, and disrupted sleep, further contribute to dullness and breakouts. The good news: a simple, targeted skincare routine can minimize these effects and help your skin adapt more easily.

Packing Smart: Dr. Schneider’s Travel Skincare Essentials

There’s no need to pack your entire skincare shelf. Focus on well-formulated essentials and travel-friendly products that your skin already loves.

• Gentle Cleanser: Start with a mild, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin. Dr. Schneider recommends Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser, Senté Daily Soothing Cleanser, or Revision Skincare Papaya Enzyme Cleanser. These options cleanse effectively while preserving the skin’s barrier.
• Moisturizer: Keep skin fortified with a dependable face cream. Try La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer for lightweight hydration or Senté Dermal Repair Cream for rich, restoring moisture ideal for long flights or dry destinations.
• Actives: Limit yourself to a few essentials when traveling. For daily antioxidant protection, use a vitamin C serum like Revision C+ Correcting Complex 30% or Vanicream Vitamin C Serum. At night, a retinol such as Senté Bio Complete Serum helps maintain skin renewal without over-sensitizing.
• Sunscreen: Sun protection is non-negotiable, even in winter. Dr. Schneider’s favorites include EltaMD UV Restore Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 (green tint) for daily face use, ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 for combination protection and light coverage, and Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch SPF 50 for body application.
• Lip Balm: Never travel without it. Aquaphor Healing Ointment hydrates and protects delicate lips, while Revision Skincare YouthFull Lip Replenisher (pink tint) provides nourishment and a flattering tint.
• Hand and Body Moisturizer: Air travel can take a toll on hands and body skin, too. Dr. Schneider often uses the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Moisturizer for both face and body when traveling—it’s hydrating, fragrance-free, and versatile.

In-Flight Skincare: Beat the Cabin Air

The key to comfortable skin at 30,000 feet is moisture management. Before boarding (even if it’s at home), cleanse gently and apply your moisturizer and sunscreen if flying during the day. Skip makeup to reduce clogged pores. During the flight, reapply moisturizer as needed (totally optional) and keep your lip balm handy.

Hydrating from the inside is equally important. Drink plenty of water, limit alcohol, and try to rest if you can. 

Adjusting to Different Climates

Your skin’s needs shift with your destination, so your products should, too.

• Warm or Humid Climates: Stick with lightweight gel cleansers and oil-free moisturizers.
• Cold or Dry Climates: Layer richer creams like Senté Dermal Repair Cream twice daily to lock in hydration.
• High Altitude or Sunny Destinations: Double up on sunscreen and include a vitamin C serum for added antioxidant support.

Maintaining a Routine on the Road

Even with a packed itinerary, consistency is key. Aim to cleanse, moisturize, and apply sunscreen morning and night. If your skin flares up from stress or climate shifts, avoid introducing new products. Staying gentle and consistent helps your skin rebalance faster.

Extra Tips for Healthy Travel Skin

• Avoid touching your face frequently, especially in airports or on planes.
• Drink enough water throughout the day to maintain skin hydration from within.
• Sleep whenever possible—skin repairs itself at night.
• Eat balanced meals and minimize alcohol or salty snacks, which can dehydrate your skin.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours outdoors, whether you’re skiing, sightseeing, or relaxing on the beach.

When to See a Dermatologist Before You Travel

If you have skin concerns like acne, eczema, or rosacea, schedule a pre-travel visit to Pacific Crest Dermatology. Dr. Schneider can help tailor your skincare routine for your destination and ensure you have the right treatment options in case of flares or irritation.

Small adjustments in your skincare lineup can make a big difference in how your skin feels while traveling—and how it looks when you return home.

Keep Your Glow Wherever You Go

Your holiday adventures deserve to be effortless and fun, and that includes your skincare routine. With thoughtful preparation and expert guidance, you can keep your skin healthy, balanced, and glowing from departure to return.

For personalized travel skincare advice or to curate a custom regimen before your trip, schedule a consultation at Pacific Crest Dermatology with Dr. Schneider. Our team is here to help your skin look and feel its best—no matter where your travels take you.