What I Packed for Skincare in the Tropics

Hot, humid, tropical weather can be a skincare dream—or a meltdown. Between sunscreen reapplication, sweat, and unpredictable sun exposure, your skin needs a different approach than your everyday routine.

On my last tropical trip, I kept things lightweight, breathable, and glow-friendly.

Here’s exactly what I packed for tropical weather—and what I’d bring again.

Gel-Based Cleanser

I packed the La Roche-Posay Purifying Foaming Cleanser decanted into a TSA-safe bottle. It kept my skin fresh without stripping it after SPF, sweat, and salt water.

Antioxidant Serum (Vitamin C)

The Mad Hippie Vitamin C serum is light and brightens without feeling heavy. It helps protect against sun exposure + evens tone.

Lightweight Hydrator

I used the Rhode Peptide Glazing Milk every morning before SPF. It adds bounce without clogging pores—perfect for tropical heat.

Day Cream / Moisturizer

I alternated between Tatcha Dewy Cream and Summer Fridays Jet Lag (used as a cream, not mask). Both performed well in humidity.

Eye Patches for AM + PM

I used 111SKIN in the morning before SPF and Summer Fridays at night to calm + depuff. They’re small, easy to pack, and made a difference.

Sunscreen (Of course)

My top two: Eucerin SPF 50 Oil Control and Rice Run. No white cast, held up to sweat and reapplication. I also tested the Alastin SPF mini on this trip—it layered well and didn’t cause any irritation, though I still reached for Eucerin most days.