Why You Should Actually Leave This Skin Care Product At Home When You Travel

If you could travel to any part of the world, where would you go? Perhaps you have always dreamed of backpacking through Europe, going on a relaxing cruise, or a national park within a few hundred miles of home. Wherever you choose to go, the idea of traveling can fill you with anticipation. A study published in the Journal of Tourism Analysis revealed that people who travel often are happier and "more satisfied with their life" than those who do not. Frequent travelers are reportedly 7% happier (via NPR). More reasons to plan some trips.

Just because you are taking a little vacation does not mean you take time off of taking care of your skin, and most people do remember to carry their essential skincare products with them. If you are flying and don't want to risk losing them in case your luggage goes missing, you can always take them in your carry-on. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), you are allowed to bring skin care products (most of which are liquids) in travel-sized containers up to 3.4 ounces. Traveling to new places is exciting and a welcoming change as the majority of us were stuck at home during Covid. While we discover new lands, we expose ourselves to different climates that can affect our skin. While sunscreen is a non-negotiable skincare item that you should always have on you, there is one skincare product that you probably don't need to travel with.

According to Healthline, retinol can help with acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. In the beginning, it may cause some dryness and irritation. It can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. When you go on vacation, you might be spending more time in the sun or outdoors, so you might not be reapplying sunscreen as needed. A cosmetic doctor at The Bloom Clinic, Rita Nandi, recommends skipping retinol "a few days before and after a summer vacation or beach day" to reduce sun damage (via Real Simple). Dr. Nandi also added that if you plan on spending more time in the sun, it is better to avoid retinol "one to two weeks before and after."

Another factor to consider is that a new destination might have a different climate with different water and humidity. Hard water and dry air can make your skin drier, and using retinol in such circumstances can cause irritation as your skin takes time to adjust to it, per Mind Body Green. Board-certified dermatologist Loretta Ciraldo told the outlet, "If you're taking a short trip to an area that may expose your skin to climate variation, I recommend stopping the retinol since your skin may take days to adjust to the new climate conditions." Therefore, it might be better to take a break from retinol during that time, so there is no need to carry it with you on your trip.

Retinol is an ingredient that can do wonders for your skin but taking some time off during vacations might not be a bad idea. However, there are other skincare products that you should take when you travel, and thankfully, many brands make travel-friendly sizes, so you can easily take them with you without the fear of excess baggage fees. The Good Face Project says don't forget your sunscreen while flying because the sun's UV rays can still affect you. New York City-based dermatologist Doris Day said an hour on the plane could damage your skin as much as a 20-minute tanning session since the sun's rays are peeking through the windows. There is more sun exposure if you are driving or exploring the outdoors than when you are indoors, so sunscreen is a must while traveling.

When you are traveling, you might be wearing makeup, or your skin can get exposed to pollutants and feel oily so carrying a cleanser is a must (via Jetsetter). While washing your face with a cleanser is essential to keep your skin healthy, you can also use makeup-removing wipes if you are too busy (but try not to make a habit of it). Choose a makeup removing wipe that can remove makeup, dirt, and oil. Your skin barrier may be compromised during travels, so always make sure to carry a hydrating face moisturizer based on your skin type, per Travel and Leisure.