How to Protect Your Skin While Traveling
Vacations promise a break from the everyday: new places, new foods, a different rhythm. But for your skin, travel can bring unfamiliar stressors—dry airplane cabins, intense UV exposure, changes in climate and a disrupted skincare routine.
Whether you're heading into the mountains, lounging beachside or walking through city streets, sun protection should be a consistent part of your travel routine. Here’s how to keep your skin healthy and protected, no matter the destination...
"The skin is your first barrier to the outside world. When you travel, that world changes—sometimes dramatically. And your skin has to adapt."
Choose the Right Sunscreen—and Keep It Close
The most important rule: don’t skip the sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure—even on cloudy days or while sitting in a car or plane. It's best to carry a travel-size bottle in your bag. Solid stick sunscreens or compact mineral powders are TSA-friendly and easy to reapply during layovers, hikes or mid-morning café breaks.
Favorite Travel Sunscreens
Dress For Protection
Sunscreen is only one part of the equation. Clothing plays a powerful—and often underutilized—role in protecting your skin. Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothing is specially designed to block UV rays, offering reliable coverage without the need to reapply. Unlike SPF, which only applies to creams and sprays, UPF measures how much UV radiation a fabric allows to reach your skin. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts in breathable fabrics (like the JOJU Laguna and Huntington shirts) are ideal for hiking, exploring or sitting on a sunny patio. Look for lab certified UPF 50+ labels for maximum protection.
Favorite Travel Sun Shirts
Don’t Mistake Glass For Protection
A window seat offers a great view—but not complete protection. UVA rays, which penetrate more deeply into the skin and contribute to aging and long-term damage, can pass through glass. That means you’re still exposed on airplanes, trains or in cars. Areas like the chest, hands and face are especially vulnerable. Consider applying sunscreen before long travel days, even if you’re not planning to be outside much.
Hydrate, Gently
Changes in altitude, climate, and hydration can quickly throw skin off balance. Airplane cabins are notoriously dry, and beachside breezes—while refreshing—can dehydrate skin as well. Pack a simple, hydrating routine including a gentle cleanser, lightweight moisturizer with hyaluronic acid a nourishing SPF lip balm. Avoid packing new or intensive skincare products unless you’ve used them before.
Favorite Hydrating Travel Skincare
Monitor the Local UV Index
UV intensity varies by geography and altitude. A winter hike in Colorado may expose you to more UV radiation than a summer day in Maine. In tropical locations, the index may stay high year-round—even when it’s cloudy. Many weather apps include a UV index reading. Anything above a 3 means it’s time to apply protection. Above a 6 means reapply often and wear protective clothing.
Bottom Line: Create a Routine That Travels Well
In the end, protecting your skin while traveling is about consistency. A few simple habits, like carrying sunscreen, wearing a sun shirt and checking the UV index, can go a long way toward keeping your skin healthy while you’re exploring somewhere new.
