―Maud Hart Lovelace, Betsy-Tacy and Tib
#1 Dry Shampoo
It’s not always practical to wash your hair, particularly on a long plane ride, but you want to look fresh and clean, right? Plus, dirty hair is usually the best hair. If you've lived under a rock and haven't tried dry shampoo, we highly recommend you get out from that rock and do so. There are two types of dry shampoo; corn starch and alcohol based. The basic idea is that the starch or alcohol soaks up grease and oil, allowing for your hair to look clean.
#2 Lip Protection
When on the road, it’s easy to overlook lip protection. A simple petrolatum based lip balm can do the trick. This will create a barrier to keep them hydrated and prevent cracking. Try and get one that has some level of sunblock and you will be set.
#3 Moisturize
Keep skin moisturized when traveling. According to the World Health Organization, the average humidity levels in a plane hover under 20%. This is bad news for keeping your skin hydrated. Keep a travel size moisturizer with you that can maintain an occlusive barrier. Lotions that have dimethicone, petrolatum or beeswax are all good choices for dry conditions.
#4 Bring a water bottle
As we've mentioned in a previous blog article, drink extra water whenever you travel. It’s easy to chug down a latte, energy drink or glass of wine, but those are all diuretics (they make you pee and who wants to go potty in an airplane bathroom?) An easy solution is to carry an empty water bottle through TSA. Many large airports have filtered water stations near bathrooms making it easy and free to hydrate and get you through plane delays and layovers.
#5 Keep your hands to yourself and off your face
Many physicians and leading research points to people getting sick through their eyes and nose. Colds, flu and other infections are given VIP access to your body through these areas. A recent study by the National Institutes of Health found people touch their faces an average of 3.6 times per hour. Though it is important to avoid chronic use of hand sanitizer, it’s not a bad thing to carry with you when traveling on a plane or train. You can also carry small amounts (less than 1 fluid oz) through security, or just buy it in the gift shop.
#6 Cleanser pads
Though the idea has been around for decades, cleanser pads are starting to grow in popularity. The reason is that you can now get medical grade cleanser pads to use when you need them. Glycolic or salicylic acid based cleansers are great for cleaning oil and dirt off your skin. The best part is you can discard them when you are done. No mess or fuss, just clean skin.
We are excited to hear about your summer travels!
Team Reflect