The combination of sun, sea, and wind can pose unique challenges for your skin. Whether you’re cruising through tropical waters or exploring cooler climates, here’s your comprehensive guide on what you’ll need when packing skincare products for your cruise.
Skincare products for your cruise:
1. Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen:
The sun’s rays can be harsh on the open sea, making sunscreen a non-negotiable item in your cruise skincare packing list – even if you’re going to a milder destination. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. And don’t forget to reapply every two hours, especially if you’ve been swimming or sweating.
Some destinations require ‘reef-safe’ sunscreens. An easy way to spot if you sunscreen is potentially damaging to the reefs, is if they contain either Octinoxate or Oxybenzone, which are known to cause a bleaching effect on the reefs.
However, it’s worth noting: the best sunscreen is one that you will actually use. Ask yourself this: What textures do you like? Do you prefer oils? creams? sprays?
Here’s a few I would recommend:
- Sun Bum: Original SPF 30 Sun Cream Lotion
- NIVEA Sun: Protect and Moisture Pump Spray | SPF 50+
- Supergoop: Bright-Eyed 100% Mineral Eye Cream SPF 40
- Supergoop: Glow Stick SPF 50 (Not reef safe, but amazing for every skin tone)
- Bioderma: Photoderm Anti-Blemish Sunscreen SPF30
- Ultra Violette: Supreme Screen Hydrating SPF 50+
2. Bug/insect repellent:
In tropical and subtropical regions, where mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya, using insect repellent is crucial for protection against these vector-borne diseases by reducing the likelihood of mosquito bites.
Even in non-endemic areas, where cruises might dock in places with prevalent biting insects, insect repellent becomes essential to prevent itchy and painful bites from mosquitoes, flies, and other nuisance insects, thereby enhancing overall comfort during onshore activities. In addition, don’t forget after-bite incase you do get bit!
Here’s some I’ve tried and loved:
- Jungle Formula: Maximum Aerosol Insect Repellent
- Boots: Repel Maximum DEET & PMD Aerosol
3. Hydrating Moisturiser:
The combination of saltwater, wind, and air conditioning on a cruise ship can lead to dry and dehydrated skin. Pack a nourishing, hydrating moisturiser to replenish your skin’s moisture barrier. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin for an extra boost of hydration.
Moisturisers can be very dependant on skin type and preferences, but a few I’ve tried are:
- Neutrogena: Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturiser
- Glow Recipe: Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream
- Summer Fridays: Rich Cushion Cream
- Clinique: Moisture Surge Intense 72hr
- BYOMA: Moisturising Gel Cream
4. Balm/Oil cleanser:
Many sunscreens are formulated to be water-resistant, which can make them challenging to remove with a regular cleanser. Balm cleansers, with their oil-based consistency, effectively dissolve and lift away sunscreen, ensuring a thorough cleanse without leaving residue behind. This doubles as a makeup remover too, so keep those wet wipes at home!
I am a huge fan of balm/oil cleansers and can happily recommend:
- Then I Met You: Cleansing Balm
- Byoma: Melting Cleansing Balm
- The Inkey List: Oat Cleansing Balm
- Byoma: Milky Oil Cleanser
5. Water-based Cleanser for Sea-Swept Skin:
Once you’ve used your balm/oil cleanser to remove the build up of sunscreen and/or makeup, it’s important to follow with a second cleanse. You may not know, but a second cleanse in the evening is important to ensure cleansing your skin after removing the SPF/makeup. Consider a hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
Gel cleansers work well for most skin types:
- Simple: Kind to Skin Moisturising Facial Wash
- E45: Face Foaming Cleanser For Dry & Sensitive Skin
- COSRX: Advanced Snail Mucin Power Gel Cleanser
6. Lip Balm with SPF:
Often overlooked, lips can easily become dry and sunburned during a cruise. Pack a lip balm with SPF to keep your lips moisturized and protected. Choose a product with ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil for added nourishment.
I use a SPF lip balm every single day, and can happily suggest:
- Bondi Sands: SPF50+ Lip Balm
- Sun Bum: Original SPF30 Lip Balm
- Ultra Violette: Sheen Screen Hydrating Lip Balm SPF 50
- Ultrasun: SPF50 Lip Protection
- Lanolips: Lip Ointment SPF15
7. Aloe Vera Gel or After-Sun Care:
In case you spend too much time under the sun, aloe vera gel can be a lifesaver. It helps soothe sunburned skin and provides instant relief. Opt for a pure aloe vera gel without added fragrances or dyes for the best results. However, if you want to streamline your routine, grab an after sun moisturiser for a post-shower soothe.
Skincare products to avoid for your cruise:
1. Harsh Exfoliants:
The sun, saltwater, and wind can already be quite abrasive to the skin. Avoid using harsh physical exfoliants or chemical exfoliants with strong acids, as they may cause sensitivity, redness, or increased vulnerability to sun damage. Gentle exfoliation is key, and it’s advisable to do so before your cruise.
2. Retinol Products:
Retinol and other retinoids can increase skin sensitivity and make it more prone to sunburn. Since sun exposure is likely during your cruise, it’s best to temporarily avoid using retinol products to reduce the risk of skin irritation and sun damage.
3. Complex Skincare Routines:
Simplify your skincare routine for the duration of the cruise. A streamlined routine with essential products like cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturizer is more practical and efficient. Complicated routines with multiple steps can be challenging to maintain in a travel setting.
4. New or Experimental Products:
A cruise is not the ideal time to experiment with new skincare products. Introducing unfamiliar products may lead to adverse reactions, especially if your skin is exposed to different environmental conditions. Stick to the tried-and-true products that your skin is already familiar with.
5. Fragrant Lotions and Perfumes:
Fragrant lotions and perfumes may attract unwanted attention from insects, especially if your cruise destination includes tropical or coastal areas. Instead, choose unscented or lightly scented products to avoid becoming a target for pesky bugs.
Conclusion:
A cruise is a fantastic opportunity to unwind, but it also requires strategic skincare products to keep your skin happy and healthy. By avoiding heavy products, harsh exfoliants, and other potential irritants, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy your cruise with a radiant and protected complexion. Simplify your routine, prioritise sun protection, and embark on your cruise adventure with confidence.
I’ve purposely left off shopping links in this blog post, as I don’t want you to think this post is targeted around affiliate links or profit, but I would always recommend shopping from reputable shops like Boots, Superdrug, and CultBeauty. And if you’re reading this from the USA or Canada, check your local Sephora. Let me know if you have any other you would recommend:
