Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology
"As an acne expert and dermatologist, after sunscreen, my must-have skin care product is a retinoid, which you can now buy over the counter. For my patients who deal with acne issues, I recommend packing Differin Gel, $19.78, which just became the first FDA-approved acne-treating retinoid that is over the counter. This is an absolute game changer since previously retinoids were only available through a prescription. Retinoids are the absolute backbone of an acne treatment since they treat and prevent acne by declogging pores and acting as an anti-inflammatory, and they've also been proven to improve skin discoloration and texture, restoring skin from prior outbreaks. Differin was designed with tolerability in mind, so it's a great starter retinoid and/or good for more sensitive adult skin. Just remember to use it in conjunction with a moisturizer, after gentle cleansing and, of course, apply sunscreen! Start off slow and increase usage as tolerated."
Dr. Patricia Wexler, New York-based board-certified dermatologist at Wexler Dermatology
"When I travel, I get extremely dehydrated, which shows on my skin. I like a good product with hyaluronic acid for this reason, which is why I'm a fan of SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator, $142.40. Hyaluronic acid holds in moisture, which keeps skin resilient and supple. HA5 supports the skin's ability to replenish its own hyaluronic acid, supporting its ability to moisturize the skin throughout the day. It also contains peptides to rejuvenate the skin and potent antioxidants to protect against sun and pollution. It's good for any skin type (sensitive skin included), just note that it should be applied before sunscreen or other anti-aging serums. Just apply twice daily and here's a pro tip: since hyaluronic acid loves water, wet your fingertips prior to applying to reap the full rewards."
Dr. Lisa Chipps, New York board-certified dermatologist
"When traveling, I always take an evening moisturizer to soothe and rehydrate while I sleep. Traveling dries out the skin, so it's important to stay well moisturized and to stick with gentle products during those times. I like the Aveeno Positively Radiant MaxGlow No-Mess Sleep Mask, $17.99: it rehydrates as well as brightens and refreshes and requires no extra effort since it works overnight. It's also safe for all skin types. Just apply it after your nighttime cleanse, go to bed and wake up with more hydrated, brighter skin. Just be careful to use cool or lukewarm water: hot water is too harsh, especially for dull, dry skin. Also, don't exfoliate or scrub the skin while traveling: it can break down the outer water barrier and make it even drier and more irritated."
Dr. Yoon-Soo Cindy Bae, clinical assistant professor at NYU Dermatology
"It's so important to keep skin moisturized, especially during extensive traveling where skin can become dehydrated. The undereye area is particularly often neglected, which is where many women show the first signs of aging. I love Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream, $15.99: it won't break your wallet and comes in a tube you can throw in your makeup bag or carry-on. I like it because it's full of hydrating ingredients like vitamins B3 and E, licorice root and grape extract for brightening (because dark circles are a real issue) and hyaluronic acid, a personal favorite ingredient of mine, which provides 24 hours of hydration. It's non-irritating and hypoallergenic; great for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Apply a pearl-sized amount around the eye area day and night (it's gentle enough for both upper and lower eye) and smooth until absorbed."
Dr. Dendy Engelman, board-certified dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon
"I'm always focused on replacing lost moisture when I travel and I like products that have anti-aging benefits because who doesn't want to prevent premature aging? Nothing ages the skin like the rigors of travel, so we have to do what we can. I like time-tested products from brands that have a track record in these things, so I tend to pack Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum, $48 for 30 capsules. I like that they've packed retinol (an anti-aging powerhouse) into these handy ceramide capsules for a targeted and precise dose of skin-friendly ingredients wherever you are. Plus, they're travel and TSA-friendly, so I just pop the package into my makeup bag along with my disinfectant hand wipes and I'm ready to go!"
