Top 5 Beauty Hacks for Jet Setting

I travel internationally a lot, and through the years I’ve developed a system so that I can arrive at my destination looking fresh (or, as fresh as is possible after a 30+ hour journey!). I recently came back from an overseas trip, so while it’s at the front of my mind, I thought I’d share my jet-setting beauty hacks.

1. Moisturise (Repeatedly).

Fortunately, I don’t suffer from acne any more, but when I did, I used to dread plane journeys. I knew that by the end of a long flight, my blemishes would be ten times bigger and redder than they were when I got on board. Why this happens, I’m not entirely sure – I suspect it’s something to do with the airflow and the lack of moisture in aircraft air – but in any case, after much trial and error, I found the cure. Moisturise! And then moisturise again! And again – and so on.

I’m still in the habit of doing this and I swear, it makes my complexion look so much clearer and brighter once I reach my destination. I moisturise my face at least once every three or four hours – so, around three times on a long haul flight. You can do this using a moisturising cream (Blissoma’s Pure Sensitive Skin Soothing Complex is supremely hydrating for this – or go with a hydrating toner like Black Robin’s Whole Lotta Rosie Toner. To make it easier, keep it in the seat-pocket in front of you, so it’s always within reach.

2. Take Dry Shampoo Everywhere!

Dry shampoo is my favourite invention. Has anyone ever had a better idea? I think not. One ‘spray & shiggle’ (that’s my explanation for how you put it on then rub it through) and your locks go from greasy and dull to shiny and just-washed in seconds. It’s a miracle! I take it with me (in my hand carry) whenever I travel. If you’re worried about carrying an aerosol, take a powder version – try Captain Blankenship’s Mermaid Dry Shampoo.

3. Brush Your Teeth on Your Way.

I find it such a pain getting up to go to the restroom on planes (I always love the window seat, so it’s even more awkward to get out) – but as inconvenient as it is, it’s so important not to forget your teeth when you’re in-between time zones. Even if this means brushing your teeth in the airport bathroom – it’s worth it to make sure you get to where you’re going as fresh as can be! I make sure I do this whenever I think about it. Don’t neglect your teeth!

4. Take Antibacterial Wipes With You.

Even if you’re not as germ-aware as I am, you will be grateful for these on at least one occasion whilst travelling. They’re just so useful. No soap in the toilets? No problem! Dirty cutlery? Sorted! They’re just perfect for so many globetrotting situations. I’m never without them.

5. Have a Place for Everything.

This one is less beauty-specific and it might sound obvious, but it really does make finding things so much easier and quicker. Whenever I pack, I wrap all my socks in a towel (one, so that I have a spare towel with me in case I need it, and two, so I can find my socks easily in my suitcase!), I have a little bag for all my jewellery which is yellow so I can spot it easily, and I keep my shoes together in plastic bags.