A pioneer in longevity-led skincare, Dr. Barbara Sturm brings the same ethos to travel as she does to everyday life. Trained in orthopaedics, she’s spent more than two decades working at the intersection of inflammation, healing and skin health, with an approach that focuses on reducing inflammation, supporting the nervous system and protecting the skin, wherever she is in the world.
Whether on the slopes or heading off on a sunny escape, here she shares the simple habits she relies on to stay balanced while travelling.
Build consistent daily rituals
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“I follow a consistent and non-negotiable longevity routine, whether I’m at home or travelling. Skiing is already an active holiday with time outdoors, movement and exposure to nature, but I still make space for daily wellness rituals that support my nervous system and help reduce inflammation.
“These include stretching, yoga, breathwork, quality sleep, anti-inflammatory foods and holistic tools like red light therapy and PEMF. It’s not about perfection while on holiday. It’s about small, daily choices that support long-term balance, health and vitality,” she shares.
Stay hydrated when travelling
“Air travel, even short flights, can trigger inflammation in the skin due to dry cabin air, environmental stress, disrupted sleep and increased exposure to airborne bacteria. These factors dehydrate the skin and compromise its barrier function. I never board a flight without my travel-size Hyaluronic Serum, Hyaluronic Face Mist and Face Cream. I apply them before, during and after flying to lock in hydration and prevent trans epidermal water loss.
“I also avoid alcohol, drink plenty of water, rest when possible and keep meals light to help my system stay energised and clear. By combining our science-based skincare solutions with VistaJet’s unparalleled service, we are setting a new standard for skincare across the globe.”
Switch to richer formulations
“Cold climates and high altitudes can severely impact the skin. Harsh winds and dry air disrupt the barrier and can trigger inflammatory responses. I always recommend switching to richer, lipid-based textures like my Face Cream Rich to deeply nourish the skin, strengthen its natural defences and shield against environmental stress. I pair it with my Hyaluronic Serum for hydration and Calming Serum to help soothe redness and inflammation caused by cold exposure.”
Don’t skip SPF
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“Cold weather can be misleading. When skiing, we don’t always feel the sun’s intensity because of temperature and windchill. But UV exposure at high altitudes is strong, and windburn is common. It causes redness, burning and irritation from a combination of sun and wind. To help prevent this, I always apply a broad-spectrum SPF with UVA and UVB protection, like my Sun Drops SPF 50, as the final step in my morning routine. It helps protect the skin barrier from UV damage and environmental stress while remaining light enough to reapply throughout the day.”
Prioritise post-ski recovery
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“After a long day on the slopes, both sauna and red-light therapy can play an important role in recovery, though in different ways. I love the sauna for its immediate systemic benefits. It supports circulation, relaxes sore muscles, aids cardiovascular health and helps the skin barrier recover. Clinical studies also show its anti-inflammatory effects, which are particularly helpful after exposure to cold, wind and sun at high altitudes.”
“Red light therapy, on the other hand, works at a deeper level to support skin regeneration and cellular repair. It helps reduce inflammation, stimulate collagen production and repair oxidative stress, making it especially beneficial after UV exposure or windburn. If you have access to both, I recommend using the sauna first, followed by red light therapy to focus on skin recovery and regeneration.”
