Head-to-Toe Summer Vacation Prep Tips

Summer means getaway season and these vacation prep tips will have you well-prepared, no matter where you’re going. Relaxing at the beach, exploring the big city, or just a long, windy road trip, we’ve got all the hair, skin, nails, and makeup to do’s before you head out for that well-deserved respite!

Hair

About a week before your departure, schedule a trim to give yourself the freshest locks and make vacation styling easy. However, unless you’re trying to cover gray, avoid coloring your hair before hitting the beach. The salt will deteriorate the color much faster than normal. Instead, head in to the salon AFTER your trip for a color appointment or even to just replenish the shine.

To protect your tresses from the elements, wear a hat or try a trendy braid. This will also keep your hair off your neck and back, leaving you nice and cool. Don’t make the mistake of thinking sunscreen is only for your skin; add some SPF to your hair too! We love AVEDA’s Sun Care Protective Veil for keeping the UV rays at bay. Wet your hair BEFORE hopping in the pool to keep it from absorbing so much chlorinated water, and then follow up with AVEDA’s After Sun Hair Masque as a leave-in conditioner.

Skin

Vacations are for neglecting our responsibilities and being care-free. But the one thing you absolutely should NOT skip while out-of-town is your skin regimen. Apply that sunscreen every single day, just like you normally would at home. Use an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply as you sweat or it washes off throughout the day. The Daily Light Guard Defense sunscreen from AVEDA is light and great for all skin types. In case of the accidental sunburn, pack this intense hydrating skin mask, which should bring some relief. Post-vacation, schedule a facial with us to keep that healthy, refreshed glow lasting as long as possible.

Wax

Shaving can be a hassle; shaving while on vacation can be even worse. Treat yourself to a shave-free trip with a wax treatment pre-departure. Come see us a week before you leave, and then exfoliate and moisturize daily while you’re away to keep the hair regrowth minimal. PRO TIP: Be sure to let your hair grow for 3 – 4 weeks prior to your appointment. It’s tough, but it will make for a super clean and smooth result.

Nails

Of course, you will want to schedule a mani/pedi a few days before you leave! Gel manicures are great for vacations because you don’t have to worry about chips or cracks. Your fingers will be in tip top shape the entire length of your trip. But afterwards, don’t peel the gel off! This leads to brittleness and breakage. Instead, soak the gel polish off or have your manicurist remove it. Don’t forget to pack a nail file for snags! For sandal-ready feet, apply a moisturizing foot cream before bed. The Foot Relief creme from AVEDA is a life-saver. On beach days, be sure to apply sunscreen to the tops of your feet as well!

Makeup

Heat and humidity are not usually kind to a full face of makeup. While you’re on vacation, keep things simple and let your skin take a rest too. Skip the heavy foundation and opt for a tinted moisturizer with SPF, which will allow your skin to breathe without melting off throughout the day. AVEDA’s Inner Light Mineral Tinted Moisture is one of our faves. Embrace the colors of the season and choose a cooler lip shade that will brighten your face. Leave the eyelash curler and mascara at home by having your lashes lifted and tinted before your vacation. (“What is a lash lift?” you ask. Find out in this past blog post!) BONUS: A simple makeup routine leaves more time for relaxing and sight-seeing!