Should You Stop Using Retinol While Traveling? A Derm Explains

Let's say you live in a cool climate and spend the holidays in a tropical location – it may take your skin a hot minute to adapt to the humidity, pollution (or lack thereof), and general travel issues like dry air on planes get used to. The same goes for those who live at sea level and fly into a mountainous climate – your skin may need to adapt to the drier air. "I don't think it's worth the downtime that climate adaptation can bring," continues Ciraldo.

The faucet can even play a role, especially if you are traveling to an area with hard water. "Hard water usually makes the skin drier and more sensitive and can lead to redness," said Ciraldo once with mbg, especially if your skin barrier is already impaired.

Speaking of tropical vacations, "If you are planning a winter beach vacation, I would leave the retinol at home as it can help you develop sun sensitivity," she adds. Remember: Retinol can increase photosensitivity and cause a rash or sunburn-like reaction when exposed to sunlight. “It is therefore recommended to use retinoids in the evening and to protect the skin with a moisturizer with sunscreen during the day so that you get all the benefits and minimize the side effects,” says the state-certified dermatologist Keira Barr, MD, about mbg the vitamin A derivative.

The final result? When you go to the beach, no matter how long the getaway is, forget about the retinol. If you're only traveling to a new place for a few days, leave the tube at home anyway – there's no point straining your skin as it adapts to the new climate and you'll be home soon anyway. But if you're in a new location for more than a week (apart from the beach), Ciraldo says you can pack the retinol in your suitcase. Just keep an eye on your skin to see if you need to turn the frequency down.