When we’re traveling, we’re exposed to so many environments, touching many different things, and encountering countless amounts of bacteria along the way. That said, it’s easy to have irritated skin while traveling, especially for those with sensitive skin. But even if you think your skin is tough, the airport bacteria and unfamiliar washes in the hotel can prove otherwise.

Whether you have sensitive skin or not, it pays to avoid bad travel habits that can specifically cause skin irritation and breakouts. So before you pack your bags for your next big adventure, take note of these habits and how to avoid them.

1. Flopping on the hotel mattress as soon you arrive

If you’re staying in a hotel, motel, or Airbnb, you often get what you pay for. That said, there is a good chance that you’ll get a bed washed with cheap detergent (if they are even washed at all) if you stay in low-cost accommodation. However, even expensive hotel beds may not be safe for your skin, especially if you are very sensitive to irritants.

So, the price of your hotel doesn’t matter; don’t dive face-first on the bed, much less the comforter that is likely not washed between guests. Before settling into your bed, remove the comforter and set it aside. Then, use your own pillowcase for the pillows or use your clothes as improvised pillowcases. You don’t know what kind of detergent they used on the beddings, and it’s better to be careful than to find out your skin is sensitive to it.

2. Using free toiletries

Hotels offer free toiletries with the room, and you may even come across free samples of products in the airport shops. Resist the temptation to try them anywhere near your face, or don’t use them altogether and just give them to someone else. Stick to the products that already work for you, especially for skincare products like benzoyl peroxide cleansers. If you try to use a different brand, your skin may not like that, and you could end up with a breakout in the middle of vacation.

3. Not washing or sanitizing your hands

When you’re traveling, you’re touching a lot of germ-infested things, such as door handles, railings, bathroom sinks, and even your airplane seat. These things don’t get sanitized as often as they should, and if you fail to wash or sanitize your hands frequently, those germs could very well end up on your face.

Do not touch your face while in transit, and before you do, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. Better yet, avoid touching frequently touched things altogether, such as door handles, railings, elevator buttons, and light switches.

4. Skipping your normal routine

It may be hard to keep up with your regular skincare routine while traveling, but it’s important that you do so to avoid unexpected breakouts and other forms of irritation. Keep in mind that traveling exposes you to all sorts of bacteria, pollution, and air pressure, so it is all the more necessary to maintain your normal skincare routine. Yes, even if you are dead tired from running around and catching flights.

5. Eating too much sugar, fat, and sodium

Eating excessive amounts of sugar, fat, and sodium is bad for you in general, but it can also lead to breakouts if you’re not careful. While eating lots of food and trying new dishes may be difficult to avoid when you’re traveling, be mindful of your intake. For instance, limit your consumption of overly sweet, sugary, and salty foods. If you must try them, eat only a moderate amount and share your portions with your companions.

6. Not moisturizing

The cabin pressure inside an airplane can dry out your skin, which is why you need to moisturize before and after you get off. Hydrate your skin with your tried-and-tested moisturizing before hopping on the plane, and reapply another layer after you get off because the pressure has most likely sucked out the moisture. Similarly, if you’re vacationing in an arid or hot place, keep your skin hydrated with frequent moisturizing.

7. Ignoring the effects of chlorine

Swimming is a common staple of vacation. However, be sure to protect your skin from the harmful effects of chlorine by showering before and after taking a dip, as well as moisturizing your skin thoroughly. Moreover, don’t forget to use sunscreen even if it’s not that hot outside, especially if you are sensitive to heat.

One of the worst things that can happen while traveling is having your skin irritated by pollution, cabin pressure, germs, and other kinds of irritants. By avoiding these travel habits, you can ensure that your skin stays fresh, hydrated, and healthy throughout your vacation.