Travel, Skincare, and Feeding Her Soul: A Q&A with Jillian Blair

Licensed esthetician, brand founder, and frequent flyer Jillian Blair shares her love for exploring new cultures, how travel inspires her skincare philosophy, and the must-have products she never boards a plane without.

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Q: What do you love most about traveling?

Jillian: I love discovering different cultures, ways of life, and histories. Every destination has its own rhythm and beauty. Traveling pushes you out of your comfort zone, and I think there's something special in realizing that no place is "better," it is just beautifully and wonderfully different.

Q: How often do you travel, and what inspires your destinations?

Jillian: I'm in London once a month for work and usually take one or two big trips a year. While I've been to almost 40 countries, I'm drawn back to the Mediterranean time and again. Italy, Greece, and Spain, particularly, inspire me endlessly with their warmth, food, and coastal beauty. What really drives me to travel, though, is the excitement of new experiences: unfamiliar landscapes, cuisines, and perspectives.

Q: Do you travel for work, pleasure, or both?

Jillian: Both. I split my time between East Rutherford, New York City, and London for work, and I love learning about the skincare industry from all three viewpoints. And yes, I travel for pleasure, too. It keeps me balanced and inspired. It's what I'm passionate about - travel, skincare and feeding my soul.

Q: Favorite places you've visited?

Jillian: It's hard to choose! I adore the Mediterranean, Italy, Greece, and Spain are forever favorites. Prague and Budapest truly surprised me with their beauty, food, and history, which are incredible. And of course, the energy of New York City will always feel like home. The food and beaches of Southeast Asia are also not to be missed. I'm sure I could eat my way through Vietnam a few more times.

Q: Carry-on or checked bag?

Jillian: Carry-on only, but the biggest one possible! I love my Away suitcase. Highly recommend.

Q: How do you plan your trips?

Jillian: I either do it myself or I use my travel advisor, Melissa, who is well-traveled and makes planning easy. Highly recommend.

Q: Any travel rituals?

Jillian: I pack methodically, probably too methodically, and I always carry a good luck charm my grandma gave me when I moved to Australia.

Q: Why is Italy so special to you?

Jillian: It feels like home. I have Italian roots, and being there connects me to family and tradition. The food, the history, the people, it's all heart and soul. Southern Italy's seafood and Tuscany's countryside are magic.

Q: Most unforgettable moment abroad?

Jillian: A boat trip along the Amalfi Coast. Crystal blue water, fresh seafood, laughter with friends, it's one of those trips I'll never forget.

Q: How does travel affect your skin?

Jillian: Airplane air dehydrates your skin, different water types can trigger irritation, and new foods can show up as breakouts. It's why consistency and hydration are key.

Q: What skincare products are non-negotiable?

Jillian: A gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, moisturizer, SPF, and a spot treatment. Keep it simple and effective.

Q: Do you change your routine in new climates?

Jillian: Definitely. I pare things down and focus on hydration. I always bring the iS Clinical Active Peel System pads for a quick exfoliation boost; they’re travel-friendly and deliver results.

Q: In-flight and post-flight skincare musts?

Jillian: Hydrating wipes, serum or sheet mask, and a post-flight facial massage. Ice globes are great for de-puffing. Just pop them in the fridge when you land.

Q: How do you stay grounded while traveling?

Jillian: Morning walks. It's actually my favorite ritual at home and abroad. Walking is how I reset, explore, and stay mindful. Sometimes I'll add a facial massage; it's like bringing a piece of my studio with me.

Q: Any wellness habits you maintain abroad?

Jillian: I walk everywhere, eat freely, and stay off my phone as much as possible. Presence is the best form of self-care.

Q: Has travel influenced your skincare philosophy?

Jillian: Absolutely. Some countries are deeply rooted in natural ingredients, others in advanced science. I love blending both smart, effective skincare grounded in simplicity and intention.

Q: What's one skincare rule every traveler should know?

Jillian: Don't skip your basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF. Keep your skin barrier protected. I love the travel sizes from Face Reality and iS Clinical because they make staying consistent easy. I also pack Clean Skin Club face towels, and I never leave home without them.

Q: How should clients prep and recover their skin when traveling?

Jillian: Before your trip, exfoliate and hydrate, but don't try anything new. While away, keep your routine light. When you're back, do a complete reset, exfoliate, use vitamin C to restore your glow, and then schedule your facial to keep you on track for your beauty goals.

Want more travel-friendly skincare inspiration?

Follow @jillianblairskin for curated product tips, skincare rituals, and real-world beauty lessons from across the globe.