Hi my beauties! I just wrapped up my birthday trip through Europe—with stops in Ibiza, Amsterdam, and Italy. As I hopped between climates and altitudes, I realized how essential it is to adjust your skincare routine while traveling. In this post, I’m sharing dermatologist-recommended skincare tips for travel that will help you maintain your glow, avoid breakouts, and protect your barrier—no matter where you're headed.
Want the full video? Watch it now on my YouTube channel:
1. Why Sunscreen Is a Must—Even on the Plane
No matter the season or destination, SPF is non-negotiable—especially on the flight. Even if you're not sitting in a window seat, ultraviolet (UV) exposure increases dramatically at high altitudes. I always wear sunscreen on the plane, and I reapply during longer flights.
My go-to:
🧴 Colorescience Flex— a daily mineral-based SPF that protects against UVA/UVB and environmental aggressors. I will be launching my own Sunscreen soon and couldn't be more excited.
Shop it now at MDAIRE.com »
2. Combat Skin Dehydration from Air Travel
Airplane cabins have low humidity, which can damage your skin barrier and lead to trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). That’s why hydration is key—internally and externally.
Before your flight: Increase your water intake at least 12–24 hours in advance.
On the flight: Use barrier-supporting moisturizers rich in ceramides and NMFs.
MDAiRE favorites for barrier support:
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NMF Hydrator Barrier Repair – Reinforces hydration and prevents TEWL
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Lip Peptide Mask – Keeps lips moisturized and protected during long flights
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Regenerative ECM Eye Complex – Essential for delicate under-eye skin, especially during travel
Explore Dr. Kappel’s Skincare Essentials »
3. Keep Mucosal Areas Hydrated (Yes, Really)
Don’t forget your lips and under-eyes. These delicate areas dry out quickly in recirculated air, which can lead to irritation and even viral susceptibility.
🧴Use emollients like the Lip Peptide Mask or even Aquaphor throughout your trip.
🧴For under-eyes, my personal must-have is the Regenerative ECM Eye Complex—or a protective occlusive like Vaseline in a pinch.
4. Adapt Your Skincare to the Climate
Where you’re going matters. A dry, windy mountain town requires different actives than a humid beach destination.
Dry Climate?
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Avoid exfoliants (like AHAs/BHAs/retinol)
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Stick with emollients, occlusives, and barrier creams
Humid Climate?
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Use a gentle exfoliant 2–3x/week
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Double cleanse to manage sebum and sweat
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Layer lightweight sunscreens
🌞 Consider adding a melanin inhibitor like Vitamin C or brightening agents to prevent sun-triggered hyperpigmentation and melasma.
👉 I personally use the Vitamin C-FK serum from MDAiRE daily, even while traveling.
Shop Brightening Essentials »
5. Stick to Your Routine—No Matter Where You Are
Your skin craves consistency, especially in unfamiliar environments or when your diet changes. I always pack my essential products and check the weather before leaving so I can adjust as needed. No matter how tired I am at night, I never skip cleansing and barrier repair.
If you deal with skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, make sure to bring any prescribed medications or protective ointments with you. A little prep now saves your skin later.
Final Thoughts
Travel is no excuse to neglect your skin! With a little planning, you can maintain glowing, hydrated, healthy skin on any trip. Reinforce your barrier, protect against UV exposure, and stay hydrated inside and out.
Want to see exactly what I pack and how I prep?
🎥 Watch the full YouTube video here »
Looking for dermatologist-formulated skincare that travels well and supports your skin in every climate?
Explore MDAIRE™ Skincare Now »
