Many of us are either already travelling or about to go on a holiday. We all know that any place is best explored on foot and that you may often need to cover long distance in the sun. Also, clean as the place may be, the air definitely, contains dust particles. All these can take a toll on your skin.

When we are travelling, our skin is exposed to natural and unnatural elements such as heat, sun, salt water, humidity, population and changes in temperature. Carrying a few essentials can provide a natural efective way to keep your skin protected and clean. Here's recommends:

1. Carry a moisturising face mist. This heps rehydrate skin, not just out in the open but in compressed enviroments such as that inside an aeroplane. Use an alcohol-free mist, as alcohol tends to dry skin further. Use one that contains floral waters, vegetable glycerine and pure essential oils.
2. Use a non-foaming, lotion-based (for dry skin) or gel-based (for oily skin) cleanser to wash off the grime and grease caused by pollution. Then cleanse with a toner to flight the effects of dust on your skin and restore balance.
3. Moisturise the skin at least twice a day, preferably with lotions containing natural oils extracted from almond, jojoba or apricot. Chemical and artificial colour-based moisturisers should be avoided as they tend to block skin pores.
4. Soothe tiredness by relaxing with therapeutic essential oils such as tea tree, lavender and peppermint. They help to not just relax but heal all sorts of minor cuts and burns. The best way to rejuvenate tired eyes and headaches is to use an eye pillow that contains these pure essential oils.

Home spa treatments

While travelling, we may not find time to visit a spa or a facial clinic. Here are some quick facial scrub and masks:

• use pineapple as a cleanser and exfoliant
• papaya gently removes all impurities and dead skin cells
• coconut milk is an excellent skin cleanser and conditioner for dry hair
• soothe burns, cut and insect bites by applying the sap of aloe vera.

The key to happy holiday is the three P's --- preparation, planning and prevention.