Summer Vacation Glow-Up Essentials
Heading on a vacation this summer? It’s time to step into your best summer glow-up yet. From a glowing complexion all the way down to your gut health, this list is full of skin, gut, and mental health essentials that will have you vacation-ready and glowing in no time!
Skin Essentials
Exfoliate and remove that dead skin
A lot of dead skin cells can build up on the surface of the skin and it is important to exfoliate. Consider exfoliating regularly 1-2 weeks pre-vacation with a salt, sugar, or coffee scrub to remove those dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, glowing complexion! Don’t forget to lather up with a rich, moisturizing lotion afterwards to replenish and hydrate the skin for a glowing look that lasts.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
Traveling can be stressful and can expose you to different environmental and weather conditions as well as different foods you may not normally eat (hello, junk food!). Often skin will break out under stress and when it lacks moisture so drinking enough water is crucial. According to research the human body loses about 8 ounces of water per hour on an aircraft and it is recommended to drink about 8 ounces of water per hour to replenish what is lost.
Don’t forget to use your SPF
While rocking a nice tan post-vacation can be fun, don’t forget to apply SPF. Choosing an SPF of at least 30 can block up to 96.7% of sun’s harmful rays while using an SPF 50 can block out up to 98%. Remember, no SPF can block 100% of the sun’s UVB rays. Applying SPF can protect skin from an unwanted sunburn, skin cancer, and even premature aging.
Bring skincare minis on vacation
Packing travel-ready minis for skin and body care is the perfect way to keep skin hydrated and glowing. Bringing along a tailored skincare routine can be especially helpful for those with sensitive skin since many minis available at hotels do not contain a full ingredient list. Many larger retailers such as Target and Walmart have dedicated sections for travel-friendly skin and body care under 3.4 ounces.
Gut Health Essentials
Nurture your gut with a probiotic
Vacation often means more eating out and having to carry around full-sized powders or supplements often isn’t feasible. Consider trying out convenient to-go packs or smaller containers of probiotics to nourish your gut on-the-go and keep digestion smooth. Vibrant Health’s Digestive Vibrance has a convenient 14-day supply of a gut nourishing formula you don’t want to miss. With 100 billion probiotics from 8 strains of carefully chosen strains of bacteria in just 1 scoop, this travel-friendly powder is perfect for relieving discomfort while increasing digestive regularity.
Don’t overeat and get plenty of fiber
Nothing can ruin a vacation faster than not feeling well. Pacing yourself while eating, being intentional with fiber-rich foods, and using moderation with sugary treats or fried foods can set you up to feel your very best on vacation. Eating enough fiber on vacation can keep digestion regular. It is recommended by the American Heart Association to eat about 25-30 grams of fiber per day. Great fiber-rich snacks include: an apple, banana, strawberries, or a pear. Buying fresh food from a nearby grocery market can be a great way to work in more whole, fiber-rich food on vacation.
Explore a new place by walking
While it is fun to lounge and rest on vacation, walking may be your new best friend. Walking while traveling can help the body burn more calories as well as aid in digestion after heavy meals. Walking also allows you to visit more authentically local spots, interact with locals, and have an overall richer experience in the town or city you are in... not to mention it is great cardiovascular exercise!
Mental Health Essentials
Give your mind a break with less screen-time
Vacations can be the perfect serene escape from the everyday rush of life. Reducing screen-time on vacation can help you to become more mindful and immersed in the present moment. Putting your phone or device away can also help you connect with those around you and experience the beauty of where you are. Your mind deserves a peaceful glow-up too!
Consider implementing mindful activities
A few activities that can bring a greater sense of peace and mindfulness are journaling, reading, and meditation. Picking up a great beach read or doing breathwork and meditation can be the perfect way to recharge your batteries and immerse yourself in the present.
Pack an eye mask or ear plugs
Are you a light sleeper? With research showing that nearly 51% of the population consider themselves light sleepers, it can be helpful to find ways to block out noise and light while on vacation. You never know if your room will be next to a noisy guest or if your flight will be delayed. More quality sleep often equals a happier, radiant you!