Vacation Breakouts. Why They Happen and How to Stop Them
So, you’re all packed and ready for that amazing vacation you’ve been dreaming of. You’re thinking of all the cool new places you’ll see, the delicious food you’ll eat, and the awesome memories you’ll make. But then, the day before your flight, a new, uninvited guest decides to pop up on your face. Yep, I’m talking about the dreaded pimple. Ugh, the worst timing, right?!
It’s a super common problem, so if this has happened to you, you’re definitely not alone.
But why does our skin decide to betray us right when we’re about to go on vacation? Let’s break it down, and I’ll give you some tips to keep your skin clear of acne while you’re traveling.
Why Do I Breakout When I Travel?
So, what’s the secret behind these pesky vacation breakouts? It's usually a mix of factors that can throw your skin for a loop. Think about it: you’re in a new environment, your routine is all messed up, and you’re probably a little stressed. It’s a recipe for a breakout!
Here are some of the main culprits:
Your Skin Is Dry.
When you’re on a plane, the air is super dry, which can suck the moisture right out of your skin. And when your skin gets dehydrated, it can actually produce more oil to compensate, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. A study even showed that drinking more water can help keep your skin hydrated and healthy [1].
You're Stressed Out.
Let’s be real, traveling can be stressful! From packing to catching flights, there’s a lot to think about. When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol, a hormone that can trigger acne. Research has shown a strong link between stress and acne, so it’s important to try and relax.
Your Diet is on Vacation Too.
When you’re on vacation, you’re probably indulging in some delicious treats you wouldn’t normally eat at home. And that’s totally fine! But, some studies suggest that high-glycemic foods (like sugary snacks and white bread) and dairy can make acne worse for some people [3].
Your Sleep Schedule is All Over the Place
Jet lag is real, and not getting enough quality sleep can mess with your skin. When you’re sleep-deprived, your body can have a harder time repairing itself, and that includes your skin. Some research suggests a link between poor sleep and acne [4].
How to Keep Your Skin Glowing on the Go
Okay, so now that we know what causes travel acne, how do we fight back? Here are some simple tips to help you prevent breakouts and keep your skin looking its best while you’re on vacation.
Hydrate!!
I know I already said it, but it’s so important! Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when you’re flying. You can also bring a hydrating face mist to give your skin a little pick-me-up. And don’t forget to moisturize! Even if you have oily skin, a good moisturizer is key to keeping your skin balanced.
Chill Out
I know it’s easier said than done, but try to find ways to relax and de-stress. Maybe it’s listening to your favorite playlist, reading a book, or doing some deep breathing exercises. Your skin will thank you for it!
Pack Essentials
You don’t need to bring your entire skincare collection with you, but make sure you have the essentials. A gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, and sunscreen are a must. And if you’re prone to breakouts, it’s a good idea to bring a spot treatment with you, ( something with aha, a retinol, or something with sulfur ) just in case.
Be Mindful Of What You eat
I’m not saying you can’t enjoy that delicious pastry or ice cream cone. You’re on vacation, after all! But, try to balance it out with some healthy options too. And if you know that certain foods trigger your breakouts, it’s probably best to avoid them.
Get Your Beauty Sleep.
Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule as much as possible. And if you’re dealing with jet lag, try to get some sun exposure during the day to help reset your internal clock or you can try some melatonin to help you adjust.
Keep Moisturizing
Even if you have acne-prone skin, it’s important to keep your skin moisturized. When your skin is dry, it can produce more oil to compensate, which can lead to breakouts.
What if it's hot and humid?
Cleanser twice a day
You may feel like you need to cleanse more often, but you don't want to strip your skin's natural barrier. Cleansing twice a day, once in the morning and once at night with a gentle cleanser is enough,
Shower After Being Sweaty
After a day of exploring you might sweat a lot. Once you have some downtime, it's best to take a shower to help prevent body acne and to wash away the sweat and bacteria that may clog your skin.
Sunscreen
Again you probably know this, but sunscreen protects your skin from sun damage and inflammation. Inflammation can cause more acne breakouts so pick a sunscreen that is formulated for oily skin, or acne prone skin during humid hot weather.
So there you have it! With a little bit of planning , you can keep acne away while you’re on vacation. Now go out there and have an amazing time! Even if you do breakout, it's okay - don't let it ruin your fun!
References:
[1] Palma, L., Tavares Marques, L., Bujan, J., & Monteiro Rodrigues, L. (2015). Dietary water affects human skin hydration and biomechanics. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 8, 413–421. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S86822
[2] Zari, S., & Alrahmani, D. (2017). The association between stress and acne among female medical students in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 10, 503–506. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S148499
[3] Baldwin, H., & Tan, J. (2021). Effects of Diet on Acne and Its Response to Treatment. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 22(1), 55–65. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-020-00542-y
[4] Schrom, K. P., Ahsanuddin, S., Baechtold, M., Tripathi, R., Ramser, A., & Baron, E. (2019). Acne Severity and Sleep Quality in Adults. Clocks & Sleep, 1(4), 510–516.
https://www.mdpi.com/2624-5175/1/4/39
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