Picture this: You’ve finally got two weeks off work, and you’re absolutely buzzing to get on that plane. Passport? Check. Latest chick-lit book? Check. Dry skin and a zit? CHECK CHECK.
Ugh. Nothing kills your holiday vibe faster than your skin or hair throwing a tantrum right before takeoff. Whether it’s that stubborn breakout or frizz that refuses to be tamed, travel - and the holiday chaos that comes with it - has a way of messing with your glow.
But don’t worry, sister, we’ve got you covered. From pre-trip prep to in-flight hydration hacks and destination-specific tricks, we’re sharing everything you need to keep your hair and skin looking their best this holiday season. Let’s get glowing!
Why Holiday Travel Wreaks Havoc on Your Hair and Skin
The festive season may be magical, but your hair and skin? Not so much. Here’s why holiday travel can throw them into chaos:
1. Holiday Overindulgence
Between those “just one more” champagnes, indulgent desserts, and late-night celebrations, hydration often takes a back seat during the holidays. That glass of water? It’s somewhere in between the pavlova and your fourth espresso martini. Cue dull skin, dry patches, and brittle hair.
2. Airplane Air & Aircon Overload
Whether you’re on a long-haul flight or just sitting in your air-conditioned living room, these environments are notorious for sucking the moisture out of your skin and hair. Hello, flaky patches and frizz.
3. Environmental Changes
New climates = new challenges. Humidity can leave your hair feeling like a puffball, while cold or dry weather can zap the life out of your skin.
4. Holiday Stress & Cortisol Spikes
Let’s be honest: as much as we love the holidays, they’re stressful. From last-minute gift shopping to dealing with family dynamics, your cortisol levels can skyrocket. And what does cortisol do? It triggers acne, hair shedding, and redness. Perfect timing, right?
How to Protect Your Glow This Holiday Season
Luckily, keeping your glow intact isn’t as hard as you think. Follow these tips, and you’ll step off that plane (or into Christmas lunch) looking radiant and refreshed.
Pre-Travel Prep: Glow Before You Go
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Hydrate Like It’s Your Job: Start drinking plenty of water a few days before your trip—it’s the easiest (and cheapest) way to prep your skin and hair.
- Pack Smart: Invest in travel-sized versions of your go-to skincare and haircare products. Think cleanser, moisturiser, SPF, and leave-in conditioner.
- Treat Yourself: Book a hydrating facial a few days before you leave to give your skin a head start.
On Travel Day: In-Transit Glow Essentials
- Skip the Makeup: Flying with foundation? Don’t. It clogs pores and makes dryness worse. Let your skin breathe.
- Hydrating Mist FTW: Keep a facial spray with hyaluronic acid in your carry-on and spritz often to keep your skin fresh.
- Moisturise Like a Pro: Apply a rich moisturiser and reapply throughout the flight. Don’t forget your lips and hands!
- Hair TLC: Smooth a lightweight leave-in conditioner or hair oil through your strands to lock in moisture.
At Your Destination: Adjust, Adapt, Glow
- Tailor Your Routine to the Climate:
- Beachy Vibes: Use oil-free products in humid climates to prevent clogged pores.
- Dry or Cool Spots: Amp up the hydration with rich moisturisers and nourishing masks.
- Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: Use SPF 30+ every day (yes, even if it’s cloudy), and reapply every two hours if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Sheet Masks Save the Day: Pop one on after a day in the sun to instantly restore moisture to your skin.
- Holiday Hair Hacks: Combat humidity with anti-frizz products, or protect your strands with braids or buns.
The Holiday Glow-Up Secrets You’ll Love
Here are a few quick tips to keep that festive sparkle alive:
For Hair:
- Skip the Heat Tools: Give your hair a break and let it air-dry. Embrace the beach waves—it’s a vibe.
- Tame the Frizz: Pack a travel-sized anti-frizz serum or spray to keep the holiday fluff in check.
For Skin:
- Double Cleanse: After a day of sunscreen, makeup, and festivities, use an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle foaming cleanser to clean your skin properly.
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Don’t Skip Hydration: Incorporate hydrating sheet masks, serums, or moisturisers into your nightly routine to replenish what the day has taken away.
How Hey Sister! Can Help You Glow
Did you know that holiday stress doesn’t just show up in your mood - it can affect your skin and hair too? That’s where Hey Sister! comes in.
Packed with prebiotics and antioxidants, Hey Sister! doesn’t just help with period pain - it also supports your gut health. And when your gut is happy, your skin glows. Plus, its anti-inflammatory properties help keep cortisol (a.k.a. the stress hormone) in check, reducing those holiday breakouts and hair-shedding moments.
Bonus Inspiration: Holiday Skincare Tips from the Pros
In episode #165 of Health with Bec ("Italy time! My skincare tips & tricks to prevent post-flight breakouts!"), Bec dives into:
- The must-have products for long-haul flights
- How to hydrate on the go
- Her secrets for arriving at your destination with clear, glowing skin
It’s the ultimate holiday prep listen - perfect for those Christmas airport waits!
Final Takeaway: Travel Can Be Beautiful - So Can You
Holidays are about fun, relaxation, and making memories - not stressing over dry skin or frizzy hair. By prepping your skin and hair ahead of time, staying hydrated, and adapting to your environment, you can keep your glow intact all season long.
And if the stress sneaks in? Don’t worry - Hey Sister! has your back (and your glow).
Happy holidays and happy travels, sister!
References
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How Airplane Air Affects Your Skin and Hair - Healthshots
https://healthshots.com -
Travel and Environmental Impact on Skin and Hair - Dermstore
https://www.dermstore.com -
Travel Skincare Tips for All Climates - The Everygirl
https://theeverygirl.com -
Stress, Hair Loss, and Skin Breakouts - Harvard Health
https://www.health.harvard.edu -
Pre-Flight Skincare and Travel Beauty Tips - Endota Spa
https://endotaspa.com.au -
How to Care for Your Skin While Abroad - Medinaction
https://www.medinaction.com -
Health with Bec Podcast, Episode 165
https://www.healthwithbec.com/podcast
