First step: Cleanse
Cleansing is the most crucial step of your skincare routine. It washes away the debris and makeup, leaving you fresh and renewed. We recommend a gentle face wash that is easy on the skin. Cerave is a great option for all skin types, and its cleanser bars are suitable for traveling or in between shifts.
Second step: Tone
Toner isn’t necessary, but if you have a little extra time in the morning, it’s a great way to balance your skin’s pH and remove dead skin cells. A key ingredient to fight off acne-prone skin is salicylic acid. Paula’s Choice minimizes the appearance of pores and is an affordable, lightweight formula that is easy to apply whenever you get a chance.
Third step: Serums
Vitamin C, E, retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide acid are just a few serums out there, making it overwhelming for anyone, especially a busy nurse. These may seem like money-sucking skin fads, but they have an important matter: anti-aging and sun damage. We narrowed it down to just one serum: Vitamin C. This product slows down the aging process while keeping your skin brighter and smoother. Glossier is an inexpensive and well-known product; dermatologists recommended and enriched with Magnesium PCA to hydrate your skin.
Fourth step: Moisturizer
A moisturizer keeps your skin hydrated and smooth, particularly for those suffering from dry skin. Also, an added benefit is an extra layer of protection around your skin that wards away blemishes. A moisturizer you cannot go wrong with is Cetaphil. We chose this one because it is dermatologist recommended and provides hydration for 24 hours. And this moisturizer contains sunscreen, so you don’t need to purchase another product.
Fifth step: Sunscreen
This last forgotten step is so so so important (we cannot emphasize this enough). Sunscreen protects us from the sun, and you may be saying, well, I am a nurse, and I am not outside all day every day. A surprising fact –UV rays will still come in through the window. If you do not put on sunscreen, you might as well skip all the other steps. Elta MD is fragrance-free and packed with niacinamide (the serum we mentioned above) to reduce unwanted oil on the skin. BONUS: it’s compact, making it great for travel.
To keep all these products safe and categorized, we recommend a TSA-approved toiletry bag. That way, it is easy to pass through airport security, and all your skincare needs are in one place. Amazon has a multitude of affordable options and colors for your travel needs.
Having a skincare routine is worth the time and effort. And an effective regimen can prevent breakouts, wrinkles and keep your skin in excellent condition! If you feel like this is too complex, you can cut down on the serums and toner (don’t forget to cleanse, moisturize and use sunscreen!) So, are you ready to start your travel nursing journey (and have glowing skin while you’re at it)? Head to Stability to see all open positions and find your next dream job!
