Embracing Minimalism: Skincare Essentials for Van Life Adventures
Living the van life means embracing simplicity and connection with nature and your skincare routine should be no different! This guide will show you how to curate a minimalistic yet effective skincare routine that keeps you fresh and glowing during your van life journey. Say goodbye to toiletry bag clutter and hello to radiant and low-maintenance skin with these essential products that require minimal water use. The key is to use products that combine multiple active ingredients and are easy to use. Like that, you can still target your concerns without bringing a whole vanity full of pots and potions. Sometimes less is more.
1. Sun-Kissed Protection: Sunscreen is a non-negotiable!
Sunscreen is your van life BFF! Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that offers great protection against UV rays. Asian sunscreens are king when it comes to protecting your skin and preventing premature aging. Here are our favorites:
2. Cleanse: Cleanser and cleansing puffs
Getting rid of all excess oils, sunscreen, makeup and dirt is key to keeping your skin glowy while on the go. Use an oil-based cleanser that doesn’t leave a residue and use reusable make-up remover wipes: they need little water and product and will leave your skin feeling squeaky clean!
3. Nourish and Hydrate: Simple Moisturizer
A lightweight moisturizer is essential for maintaining hydration without feeling heavy. Choose one that keeps your skin hydrated all day long and that doesn’t promote breakouts.
4. Fresh and Clean: Shampoo Bars or multipurpose Castille soap
Keep things eco-friendly with a multi-purpose castille soap and a conditioning shampoo bar. These bars are space-saving and easy to use, helping you stay clean while respecting nature. If you prefer liquid soap use Dr. Bronner’s soaps, they are the perfect allrouder as they can be used as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, washing up liquid and even mosquito repellent if you choose one with a citrus smell.
5. Bye bye smelly armpits: The best eco deodorant
Lets be honest, sometimes vanlife can get rough and you never know when you’re gonna see the inside of a shower for the next time. A good deodorant is key here and we found the perfect one that is all natural but works (it really does!). It's compact, efficient, and leaves you feeling confident even after your van life adventures.
6. Target concern: only one serum!
A serum adds a touch of luxury to your routine. Look for one packed with antioxidants to rejuvenate your skin after a day of exploring in the elements. Choose whichever one works best for the concerns you want to focus on, be it hydration, anti-aging or blemishes.
7. Emergency Savers: Water Wipes
Van life is all about flexibility. Water wipes are perfect for those moments when you're short on water or time. Make sure to properly dispose of them though, even if they say they are flushable they clog up pipes and the biodegradable ones take ages to fully break down!
8. Rapunzel’s secrets: Hairbrush, Hairmask and Microfiber Towel
A hair routine out in the wild is challenging I admit. The days before you wash your hair, slap some hairmask on and leave it in for the whole day, it works as styling cream and gives your hair the much needed moisture. The next morning wash it off. After washdays gently pad your hair in a microfibre towel and try not to frizzy them up too much. Brush your hair EVERY day. I mean it, every day! You’ll end up with knots and dreadlocks quicker than you think. A silk bonnet might be helpful as well if you want to combat frizz.
Here are also a few Water-Saving Tips that can be handy while being on the road:
Cleansing with Care: Use a small amount of water to wet your skin before applying the soap or shampoo bar, and again to rinse.
Conservative Rinsing: When using water to rinse, be mindful of how much you're using. A small basin or container can help you use just what you need.
Don’t leave a trace: Don’t pour grey water into nature, use water wisely,
Last but not least I want to share some of the showers I used on my last trip (keep your quarters as most of them are coin operated):
Bryce National Park, next to the General Store at North Campground
Grand Canyon National Park, Mather Campground Showers and Laundry
Van life encourages us to simplify, and that includes our skincare routine. By curating a collection of essential products and mastering water-saving techniques, you can embrace your journey while keeping your skin radiant and healthy. Remember, it's not about packing your entire bathroom, but about embracing the joy of minimalist self-care, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of your van life adventures.