As we head into spring and summer, many of us are planning vacations. Whether you are booking a trip to a far-flung exotic destination or a getaway somewhere more local, it’s time to start preparing your skin.

Sun kissed shoulders, exposed midriffs, sandal-clad feet – the skin all over your body is exposed to the world while you are on vacation. But are you ready?

Follow these six skin care tips to get your skin ready for the summer months ahead. No matter where you are heading on vacation, these tips will help you maintain fresh and glowing skin.

  1. Get a good night’s sleep – and then another. And another…

We’re all busy, running around and trying to do 25 hours worth of work in just 24 hours. However, relaxing, resting, and getting high quality sleep are all important keys for healthy, happy skin. When we get a solid amount of rest, our bodies are able to regenerate and heal.

What happens when we deprive our bodies of sleep? Our skin can no longer repair itself, and dark circles, dry patches, and wrinkles start to carve deep grooves into your face, neck, and hands. Meditation, aromatherapy, warm (not hot) baths – do whatever you need to do to relax and get a good night’s sleep.

  1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

One of the best ways to cultivate skin dewy and glowing is to start hydrating from the inside out. Make sure that you drink plenty of water, and consume lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Water keeps your skin plump, resilient and looking its very best.

  1. Cleansing, exfoliation and moisturizing are key

A skincare regime is necessary for anyone who wants to maintain healthy skin. Cleansing is the first step as it removes make-up and other debris that can so easily clog your pores. Ensure that you always take off all cosmetics with a micellar make-up remover, and then follow up with an oil-based cleanser.

It is always a good idea to apply a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week. This will remove layers of dull, dead cells and polish your skin to a glow.

Finally, ensure that you always moisturize the skin of both your face and body. A rich and buttery cream is usually ideal for arms, legs and torso, but you will need to pay special attention to the specific needs of your facial skin before selecting the right moisturizer.

  1. Put down the boozy drinks

Alcoholic beverages may be a part of many vacations, but if you want your skin to look its best while you’re away, you need to put down the drinks in the weeks leading up to your departure. Alcohol produces free radicals in your body, and damages your DNA. This can break down your collagen and inflame your skin, causing wrinkles.

If you want glowing skin, you need to say goodbye (at least in the short term) to the booze.

  1. Avoid hot baths and showers

While it may feel comforting and soothing to take a long, hot bath or shower, it’s not a great idea to let this become a regular habit. That’s because the hot water can actually start to dry your skin out. Over time, this zaps your epidermis of its natural oils and leads to a wrinkled, dull appearance.

Stick to cooler water, and if you do want a hot soak, make sure to thoroughly moisturize afterward.

  1. Reducing stress helps your body heal – resulting in glowing skin

When you start to feel stress and anxiety, your body starts to increase its production of cortisol. This stress hormone causes your skin to produce more oil, which can in turn block your pores. The result? So-called ‘stress break-outs’ that mottle your skin and ruin those otherwise perfect vacation selfies.

Over time, chronic stress can harm your skin’s natural barrier, and allow harmful toxins to penetrate its surface. Your skin will become more vulnerable to damage, and highlight lines and wrinkles. Be kind to yourself and focus on self-care, stress-reduction, and getting quality rest – you deserve it.

By following these skin care tips, you can help your skin to look its best in all of your vacation photos. Bon Voyage!