How Skin Sensitivities Can Ruin Your Trip - And What to Do Instead

You like traveling to discover new things, meet people, and try foods you’ve never tasted. But while new experiences are exciting and fun, they can wreak havoc on your skin if you have sensitivities. Thankfully, with some planning and a few smart changes, you can enjoy traveling as much as you used to.

Your Skin and Travel: Sneaky Ways You Might Suffer

Whether you’re at an airport, in a crowded restaurant, in a hotel room, or somewhere else during your trip, there are different triggers that can lead to a skin flare-up. Coming into contact with someone wearing a lot of perfume may leave you sneezing and feeling itchy, or you might get hives after trying a spicy meal. Or perhaps you get a nickel rash from a pair of earrings. All while you’re supposed to be enjoying your surroundings.

In extreme cases, you might end up in a clinic getting treatment for a skin reaction. If you don’t speak the language, it can be difficult to communicate effectively.

Here’s What to Do Instead: Travel Smarter When You Have Sensitive Skin

If skin sensitivities are something you have dealt with for a while, be proactive. Doing so can let you travel more comfortably the next time. Here are some easy tips:

1. Pack Titanium Earrings Instead of Nickel

Jewelry completes the outfit, and you want to look your best while away, so packing your favorites in the suitcase makes sense. But choose wisely, as nickel-based studs can lead to swollen, uncomfortable earlobes. Itchy ears are annoying and can take away from the travel experience. So, choose titanium earrings instead, and you won’t worry about reactions. They come in stylish designs and are ideal for long trips by plane, bus, or car.

2. Bring Sensitive Laundry Detergent

If you will be away for a long time and plan to wash your clothing at some point, another thing to pack with you is a small bottle of sensitive laundry detergent. While hotels often have a laundry service, they typically use harsh detergents. The last thing you want to happen is to use that service and wind up with a rash all over. Instead, use your own detergent, and use it to wash a few items, if needed. The effort is worth it, knowing you won’t have a skin reaction.

3. Wear Breathable Clothing

Certain fabrics can be stifling, leading to sweating while on the go. If you’re in a hot destination, that can be uncomfortable. Instead, choose light, breathable clothes made of cotton or linen. That provides better airflow to keep you comfy on a long flight or while walking around sightseeing when you get to the destination. Also, choose looser clothes rather than tighter ones. You’ll want to wash new garments, too, before wearing them for the first time on the trip, as that can help remove chemicals that may otherwise trigger a skin reaction.

Summary: Travel Smarter to Protect Your Skin

From packing titanium earrings instead of nickel to wearing loose, breathable clothing, you can avoid discomfort by making decisions ahead of time. You can explore new destinations and have a great time again, all while feeling good about yourself!

Featured