Glow On The Go: Festival-Ready Skincare Routine

Festival season is back. And with a full line-up ahead, a few things are (almost) guaranteed: limited packing space, minimal access to water, and a disrupted sleep schedule. So, it’s time once again to streamline our extensive skincare routines down to just a few effective steps. But with a few science-backed essentials and a little planning, you can keep your skin hydrated, protected and radiant. Here’s your field-tested guide to skincare that will see you through to the final encore.

SPF is the real headliner

Long days swaying in the sunshine mean one thing: sun protection is a non-negotiable. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage your skin, both on the surface and at a cellular level. And it’s the main culprit of premature aging, pigmentation, and increased skin sensitivity. Not to mention the very real risk of skin cancer. [1]

To protect your skin from UV damage, slather (don’t skimp) on generous layers of sunscreen each morning on your face, ears, neck, and anywhere else the sun might hit. This is true even if it’s cloudy outside, as UV rays can penetrate through clouds. [2]

Don’t forget to reapply every two hours—especially if you’re dancing, sweating, or spraying your skin with glitter. Bonus points if you pair your sunscreen with a wide-brimmed hat to give yourself a break from direct sun.

Keep skin hydrated (even if you’re not)

Hot weather, late nights, and long walks between stages can leave your skin dehydrated on a cellular level, especially if your water intake hasn’t kept up.

Research shows that water loss through sweat, combined with poor hydration, can compromise the skin’s barrier function, leading to dullness, dryness, and increased sensitivity. [3] Sufficient hydration – both internally and externally – enhances elasticity, barrier resilience, and overall texture. These are all essential when your skin is dealing with prolonged sun exposure, dust, layers of SPF and sleeping in a zip-up sleeping bag.

A multi-tasking serum is key. Daily Hydration 5HA+Cica Serum contains five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid that absorb fast and hydrate across multiple layers, while glycerin and panthenol lock moisture in. With added Centella asiatica and niacinamide, it soothes and strengthens your skin barrier, making it ideal for replenishing tired, thirsty skin.

Follow it up with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to seal in your serum. We love the Soothing Centella Gel Moisturizer for its cooling texture and barrier-boosting benefits, which don’t feel heavy or sticky on the skin.

Revive your skin with Vitamin C

Long festival days spent outdoors mean increased exposure to environmental stressors, such as UV rays, pollution, and oxidative stress. These factors generate free radicals, which damage skin cells, accelerate signs of ageing, and weaken the skin barrier. [4]

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant known for its ability to neutralise free radicals, brighten skin tone, and support collagen production. [5] It also works in sync with sunscreen, boosting its photoprotective effects when used in your morning routine.

Keep it simple (but consistent)

There’s no need to bring your full 10-step routine. Focus on a few high-performing essentials that won’t overload your skin (or your backpack).

Stick to:
Cleanser (or micellar water if showers are scarce)

Hydrating serum + moisturiser (AM + PM)

Vitamin C (AM)

SPF 50 (AM, and reapply)

Optional: your usual Dermatica treatment (only if your skin tolerates it well)

If you’re using actives like retinoids, apply them at night and take extra care with sun protection during the day. However, if your skin feels dry, irritated, or sun-sensitive, it’s okay to take a short break.

Don’t skip the cleanse

Wipes shouldn’t replace your entire routine, but we understand — when you’re removing makeup, sunscreen, dust, and day-three glitter in a tent, practicality wins. Bring micellar water or gentle cleansing pads to lift off grime without stripping your skin. If possible, cleanse your skin properly once a day to help prevent breakouts and irritation.

Festival tested. Dermatologist approved.

A well-packed skincare routine means you can spend less time worrying about breakouts and barrier damage, and more time soaking up the music, sunshine and memories.

Visit our website and discover which personalized formulas will help keep your skin thriving from festival season and beyond.