Your Ultimate Guide to Skincare While Escaping the Cold: 5 Steps to Glowing Skin on Your Vacation

As winter sets in, the only thing you might be dreaming of is escaping the chill and basking in some sunshine. Whether you’re lounging on a sun-kissed beach, exploring a tropical getaway, or just soaking up some rays by the pool in an exotic location, there’s one thing you definitely shouldn’t forget: your skincare routine.

A change of scenery means a change in your skincare needs. The sun, saltwater, and air conditioning can all wreak havoc on your skin if you’re not careful. Here’s a reminder of the five essential steps you need to follow to ensure that your skin stays radiant and nourished while you’re away—and no, skipping SPF is not an option!

1. Cleanse: Start Fresh

Before you get to the fun part of vacation (think cocktails and beach days), make sure your skin is fresh and free of any makeup, sweat, or dirt from your travels. A gentle, hydrating cleanser is key, especially if you’re switching to warmer climates. For travel-friendly options, the Cerabalm cleansing face balm is perfect. It gently cleanses and is amazing at removing makeup and SPF. It is also a stellar mask and nourishing balm making it the perfect multitasker! You want a clean base before you build up your skincare layers, especially if you’re headed to a sunny destination.

Danucera Cerabalm Cleansing Balm Sustainable Skincare Clean Beauty Multitasking Mask

danucera
cerabalm

A gentle, nourishing balm that cleanses the skin while maintaining its natural moisture barrier. Its soothing formula melts away makeup and oils without stripping the skin and preparing it for its second cleanse.

2. Tone: Balance and Revitalize

After cleansing, the next step is toning. A good toner helps balance your skin’s pH, remove any lingering impurities, and prepare it for the next steps. The Danucera D22 Tonic is a great option for this—it offers a light exfoliation and tightens the skin without drying it out, perfect for pre-sun exposure.

If you’re someone who’s a fan of Biologique Recherche, the Biologique Recherche Travel Kit has all the essentials you need on the go. It’s TSA-friendly and includes some of the brand’s best-loved products, which are perfect for keeping your skin hydrated and balanced during your vacay.

biologique recherche travel kit

biologique recherche
travel kit

Perfect for the Biologique Recherche enthusiast on the move! This set includes TSA-compliant sizes of some of the brand’s most beloved products. It’s also an excellent way to try the line if you’re new to it.

3. Serum: Target and Treat

Serums are an absolute must on vacation to target specific skin concerns like uneven skin tone, dullness, or pigmentation. Environ’s Tri-Peptide Complex+ Avance Elixir is a powerful option for travel. This serum helps your skin stay resilient and glowing even in the face of UV exposure and pollution. It’s packed with peptides and Chinese root extracts to nourish your skin and boost its structure, giving you a radiant complexion that can handle the elements.

Environ Tri Peptide Complex Avance Moisturiser Cream

environ
tri-peptide complex+ avance elixir

This serum features a potent trio of peptide complexes and Měiritage, a unique blend of Chinese root extracts. Together, they help reduce oxidative stress from UV and pollution, even out skin tone, and improve skin structure. The result is a radiant, youthful complexion that stays resilient and glowing longer.

4. Moisturize: Lock in Hydration

Whether you’re soaking up the sun or cooling off in air-conditioned spaces, keeping your skin moisturized is crucial to prevent dryness and irritation. The Cerabalm face balm is perfect for dry, sun-exposed skin or after a dip in the ocean.

For those who prefer a lightweight moisturizer that still packs a punch, Valmont’s Daily Veil is a 100% mineral SPF 30 that hydrates, smooths, and firms your skin. It’s a moisturizer and sunscreen all in one, making it perfect for vacation—less is definitely more when you’re packing light!

Daily Veil Valmont SPF Sunscreen

VALMONT
DAILY VEIL

This 100% mineral SPF 30 offers superior daily sun protection while hydrating, smoothing, and firming the skin for a more radiant appearance.

5. SPF: Never Skip It!

No matter where you are, SPF is non-negotiable. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is one of the most important things you can do to prevent premature aging and skin damage, especially when you’re in a sunny climate.

The ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica is a fantastic option for high-protection, mineral-based sunscreen. It offers SPF 50, while also using peptides to correct and repair sun damage. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and provides broad-spectrum protection—perfect for a day at the beach or city exploring.

Isdin Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50 sunscreen

ISDIN
ERYFOTONA ACTINICA 100% MINERAL SUNSCREEN SPF 50

Protect, correct and repair with this ultralight SPF that uses zinc oxide and peptides to fight the signs of photoaging, while providing broad spectrum sun protection.

Bonus: Vacation Must-Haves

Along with your skincare essentials, don’t forget these accessories to make your vacation even more luxurious and comfortable:

Eres
Aquarelle

This minimalist tank-style swimsuit is perfect for lounging at the beach or pool, flattering all body types and offering chic comfort.

White and Warren
Cashmere Travel Wrap

If you’re jetting off to somewhere breezy, this luxurious cashmere wrap will keep you warm and stylish on your travels.

MBR medical beauty research
Cell-Power Lipo Peel

This indulgent body scrub combines herbal lipids and sugar-salt crystals to exfoliate your skin, leaving it silky smooth and ready for further treatments.

Oribe
Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray

Keep your hair frizz-free and flawless, no matter the weather. This spray is a lifesaver in humid climates.

Eres
Cabine Waterproof Sarong

A versatile cotton sarong that works as a stylish, functional accessory for the beach, giving you that extra layer of elegance when needed.

Vacations are all about relaxing, exploring, and, of course, taking care of yourself. Don’t let the excitement of escaping the cold stop you from maintaining your skincare routine. With these 5 essential steps—cleanse, tone, serum, cream, and SPF—plus some luxurious accessories, your skin will stay glowing and nourished no matter where your travels take you.

So, next time you’re planning a getaway, make sure you bring your skincare A-game along. Your future self (and your skin) will thank you!


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