Refresh Your Skincare Routine
When planning a holiday, it’s easy to focus on the big things—flights, packing, and itinerary. But your skin deserves just as much attention as your passport. Preparing your skin before your vacation isn’t just about looking good in holiday photos; it’s also key to protecting your skin from stress, sun exposure, and climate changes.Pre-holiday prep is the perfect excuse to upgrade your skincare. Sun, wind, salty sea air or urban pollution can all take a toll on your skin, so your routine should be focused on hydration, protection, and repair.
Here’s why a pre-holiday skincare routine is a must - and how to do it right.
1. Travel Can Be Tough on Skin
Changes in climate, humidity, and water quality can disrupt your skin's balance. Airplane cabins, for example, are extremely dry and can leave your skin dehydrated and dull before your holiday even begins.
What to do: Start boosting hydration from the inside and out at least a week before your trip. Look for moisturising serums with hyaluronic acid and drink plenty of water. Consider adding hyaluronic acid supplement to support elasticity and hydration from within.
2. Build Up Your Skin Barrier
Your skin’s natural barrier protects against environmental stressors - like UV rays, pollution, and bacteria. But it needs to be strong to do its job.
What to do: Use products rich in ceramides, niacinamide, and antioxidants. A strong barrier helps prevent irritation, sunburn, and breakouts while you’re away.
3. Avoid Breakouts and Irritation
Changing environments and holiday indulgences (hello, cocktails and late nights) can trigger breakouts or sensitivity.
What to do: Keep your routine consistent and avoid trying new products right before you leave. Focus on gentle cleansing, exfoliating 2 - 3 times a week, and using non-comedogenic moisturisers.
4. Get That Holiday Glow Early
Healthy skin doesn’t happen overnight. If you want radiant, smooth skin for your first beach day, your routine should start early.
What to do: Include a gentle exfoliant, hydrating serum, and nourishing night cream in your routine at least 10 - 14 days in advance. This gives your skin time to renew and glow naturally.
5. Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable
Even before you reach a sunny destination, your skin needs sun protection. UV damage can accumulate fast and leads to premature ageing, pigmentation, and dryness.
What to do: Start using a broad-spectrum SPF daily and continue reapplying it while on holiday - especially if you're swimming or sweating.
Eat for Energy and Skin Health
Your diet in the weeks before a holiday can greatly influence how you feel and look during your time off. Focus on:- Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and tomatoes. Healthy fats from avocado, olive oil, and nuts for glowing skin.
- Hydrating fruits such as watermelon, cucumber, and citrus.
- Stay hydrated and cut down on sugar, salt, and processed snacks to reduce bloating and breakouts.
Bonus: these changes also support your immune system before you travel.
Move Your Body — But Don’t Overdo It
Exercise is essential for improving circulation, boosting your mood, and increasing your energy. A pre-holiday workout plan can be simple:- Mix light cardio (walking, swimming) with yoga or Pilates for balance and flexibility.
- Add in strength training 2–3 times a week to tone muscles and feel more confident in your holiday wardrobe.
Remember, the goal isn’t to transform your body - it’s to feel good in it.
Prioritise Mental Preparation and Stress Relief
Travel can be exciting, but pre-trip planning is often stressful. Use this time to reconnect with your mental wellness:- Try meditation or breathwork for at least 10 minutes a day.
- Write a packing list and travel checklist to avoid last-minute panic.
- Unplug from work gradually instead of abruptly - this helps your mind transition into vacation mode.
Supplements That Help You Glow on Holiday
Modern travel and busy lives can deplete your body of key nutrients. Adding a few supplements into your pre-holiday routine can enhance your health and appearance.Hyaluronic Acid for Drinking: The Vegan Alternative to Collagen
For those seeking the benefits of collagen without using animal-derived products, hyaluronic acid for drinking has emerged as a powerful, vegan-friendly alternative. Known for its ability to deeply hydrate and plump the skin from within, hyaluronic acid supports many of the same goals as traditional collagen - but in a plant-based form.
Regular supplementation with hyaluronic acid can offer:
- Smoother, more supple skin, better equipped to handle sun exposure and travel stress
- Improved joint flexibility and mobility, ideal for staying active on holiday
- Deep hydration, promoting a radiant complexion even in hot or dry climates
Because it works at the cellular level to retain moisture, hyaluronic acid mimics many of collagen’s beauty and wellness benefits, making it a perfect option for vegans or anyone looking for clean, ethical alternatives.
Tip: Start incorporating this vegan collagen into your daily routine a few weeks before your trip for optimal results. You can take it alone or as part of a broader vegan collagen-boosting supplement.
Other Holiday-Ready Supplements to Consider:
- Magnesium: Reduces travel fatigue and helps with sleep.
- Probiotics: Support gut health, especially if you’re changing your diet while abroad.
- Vitamin C and Zinc: Strengthen the immune system.
- Adaptogens (like ashwagandha): Balance stress and energy levels.
Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you have health conditions or take medication.
Practical Beauty Prep
You don’t need to book a spa day (unless you want to!) — a few smart, at-home beauty steps can help you feel refreshed and ready to go. None of this is essential, but if you enjoy a bit of pampering before your trip, these simple touches can boost confidence and comfort:- Get a quick hair trim to refresh split ends and give your hair a healthy shape.
- Consider a long-lasting manicure or pedicure if you’re heading to the beach or want to skip polish touch-ups.
- Book any waxing, brow shaping, or tinting appointments 3–5 days before departure to give your skin time to calm down.
Don’t Forget to Pack Self-Care
As you prepare your suitcase, think beyond clothes and chargers:- Travel-size skincare essentials
- Silk pillowcase or eye mask for better sleep
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on the go
- Books or journals to help you disconnect and reflect
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