Between heavy traffic, crowded subways, and pollution, getting from one place to another can be significant for your health and skin.
Research published in the journal Experimental Dermatology shows that air pollution, smog, and stress can damage the skin and lead to signs of premature aging, brown spots, and general dullness. Commuting every day is not ideal. So, what’s a working girl to do?
6 beauty tips for skincare on the go
Fortunately, you can protect your skin all day and save time getting ready by morning! Here are six skincare tips every traveler should incorporate into their daily routines.
1. Double cleanse before going out.
We don’t just mean to scrub harder. Before you leave your house, prepare your skin to deal with the effects of sitting around in your makeup and sunscreen (not to mention all the grime you encounter on your daily commute) with a gentle cleanser, like micellar cleansing water or another oil-based cleanser. Now that your skin is prepped for a deeper clean, you can cleanse your pores with a hydrating gel or purifying cleanser to minimize excess oil and lock in hydration.
2. Keep moisturized
Your commute is stressful due to traffic jams, late trains, UV rays, and damaging free radicals. Over time, that can age your skin, according to a study published in the journal Biomolecules. Luckily, you have a secret weapon against the signs of aging: moisture. Applying a moisturizer in the morning and at night can help ward off stress effects (like wrinkles) and protect your skin. For extra protection, use a facial spray as you head to the train or your car, as well as throughout the day as needed.
3. Always apply sunscreen.
You know sunscreen is an absolute must on beach days, but it’s just as important to have sun protection on your road trip. That’s right! According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, UVA rays are present year-round, even on cloudy days, and can pass through car windows. Prolonged overexposure can lead to premature signs of aging, so stay protected with a small container in your purse or briefcase.
4. Pay attention to hydration.
Chances are, your daily commute is making you feel extra thirsty. Your skin is feeling that dehydration, too, which means staying hydrated is extra important. Drinking water throughout the day not only keeps your body running smoothly, but also replenishes your cells and gets rid of dry, flaky skin. For extra hydration, finish off your nighttime routine with a hydrating mask. In addition to face masks, you can also find body masks formulated specifically for hands and feet!
5. Protects from pollution.
Since pollution can expose your skin’s surface to free radicals and lead to inflammation, antioxidant-rich serums, and creams are a smart addition to your daily skincare routine. Antioxidants like vitamin C are effective at neutralizing free radicals, boosting the skin’s collagen production, and strengthening its natural defenses, according to a study in Nutrients. A small container of this powerful defender can easily fit into a purse or pocket—you just need to apply a dab (or two) at a time.
6. Exfoliate regularly
This step is best saved for the end of the day. Whether you use a facial cleansing brush, scrub, or chemical exfoliant, your skin benefits from gently sloughing off the surface layer of dead skin cells two to three times a week. Not only does it reveal the smoother, fresher skin underneath, but it also helps increase circulation for healthier skin.
Commuting to and from the office day after day can take a toll on your skin, but it doesn’t take much work to maintain healthy, glowing skin. You don’t have to compromise with a skincare routine for the road, like this one.
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