Menu
Aesthetic doctors Edwin Lim and Low Chai Ling share how a change in climate and long hours in the plane can wreak havoc on your complexion9
You love exploring new cities but hate how your skin doesn’t look like its usual radiant and plumped-up self. Skin goes through a lot of changes when you’re in jet-setting mode. But, thankfully, there are ways to save it from a change in climate, time zone and diet.
A lack of sleep and pre-trip anxiety may increase your body’s production of cortisol, a stress hormone. This can cause acne breakouts, says Dr Lim.
The fix: Dr Low suggests using non-comedogenic skincare that doesn’t clog pores or products with alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids — also known as AHAs and BHAs — to reduce oiliness. Cleanse twice daily, but don’t overdo it, as over-cleansing dries out skin and, ironically, makes it produce even more oil.
Sitting for hours on a plane with dehydrating cabin air can make your complexion look dry and tired.
The fix: When your skin feels itchy or tight, it’s getting too dry. Before you fly, Dr Low recommends applying moisturiser or a serum with hyaluronic acid to quench parched skin. If you have time, top up with a facial oil made with squalene, which protects your skin’s barrier and prevents moisture from escaping.
Travelling to a sunny climate? All that UV exposure can lead to sunburn and an uneven skin tone, Dr Low cautions. UV rays also break down collagen and elastin, speeding up the signs of ageing.
The fix: Use a sunblock with SPF50 and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors and perspire a lot. Sunblock is also crucial if you have a window seat on a day flight.
We indulge in rich foods and even alcohol on vacay mode, but they can make skin prone to breakouts and dullness, says Dr Low.
The fix: Hydrate flaring skin with a gentle moisturiser. Also, cool it down with soothing products containing aloe vera or niacinamide.
You don’t want to be scrambling around a foreign city looking for a zit cream or sunscreen, so pack these in!
This friction-proof, water-resistant formula offers UV protection — ideal for a beach holiday!
This easily absorbed formula targets breakouts, unclogs pores and exfoliates. It can even be worn under makeup.
Ideal for cold and dry climates, this contains ceramides to boost your skin’s moisture-retaining capabilities.
A gentle product that cleanses deep into pores while offering extra moisturisation. Plus, it’s dermatologist-tested!
