While travel and vacation can mean taking a break, don’t let your skincare and rosacea-friendly lifestyle choices falter when you’re away from your daily routine. Before you head out for a long weekend, road trip or family getaway, be sure to pack everything you’ll need to maintain your regular skincare and medical therapy regimen, as well as avoid potential rosacea triggers.
- Sunglasses are a good idea for any vacation-goer, but those with ocular rosacea should definitely pack a pair or two. Just like skin, eyes can be irritated by wind and sun exposure. Make sure your lenses provide 100 percent UV protection.
- Air travel can often make carrying medications a challenge. Consider a pill box or small pouch or bag to keep meds organized and together. Count out how much you will need for each day of your vacation and check that any topical medication is less than 3 ounces. If your vacation plans include flying, pack them in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed.
- If you have established a daily skin-care routine that appears to be working, don't stray while you’re away -- maintain it while on vacation. Products are often packaged in bulky containers that can be a pain to pack so consider transferring creams and moisturizers to small travel-friendly containers.
- Women may want to keep a travel bag of makeup for touch ups during hot, sweaty days to cover up any visible redness.
- Exposure to sun is often the biggest rosacea trigger. That’s why it’s so important to wear sunscreen. Choose a gentle formulation with an SPF of 30 or higher that contains zinc or titanium dioxide and delivers both UVA and UVB protection.
- Bring a stylish or sporty hat with a wide brim to further protect your face from the sun.
- Late summer days can also bring wind, especially if you spend your days on a beach, in a boat or automobile with wide windows. Protect your face by carrying a large scarf that you can use to shield against stinging winds.