Oct
Skincare
Why You Should Consider an In-Flight Skincare Routine
Flying might feel like a journey of convenience and excitement, but for your skin, it’s often a battle. High altitude, low humidity, and the recycled air in an airplane cabin can leave your skin feeling dry, dull, and fatigued. In fact, the humidity levels on an airplane are often as low as 10-20%, compared to the 30-60% we’re used to on the ground. According to dermatologists, this can wreak havoc on even the healthiest skin, stripping it of its natural moisture and balance.
But here’s the good news: with a strategic in-flight skincare routine, you can protect your skin from the adverse effects of air travel. And this isn’t just about vanity—it’s about maintaining your skin’s health in extreme conditions. So, whether you’re a frequent flyer for business or an occasional vacationer, taking care of your skin mid-air is worth the few extra steps.
The Science of Skin Dehydration During Flights
Let’s talk science for a second. Airplane cabins are pressurized to mimic conditions you’d experience at around 6,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level. At this altitude, humidity levels drop dramatically. When there’s less moisture in the air, your skin compensates by losing its natural water content. This effect is compounded by the cabin’s recycled air, which contains very little moisture to begin with.
Research shows that your skin can lose up to 25% of its moisture during a three-hour flight! This isn’t just a cosmetic issue—your skin needs water to function properly. When it’s deprived of moisture, the skin barrier can weaken, leading to irritation, redness, and even breakouts. This is why some people find themselves with an unexpected pimple or two after a long-haul flight.
If you’re someone who already deals with skin concerns like eczema, rosacea, or acne, the effects of air travel can be even more pronounced. But there are ways to combat this drying environment. An effective in-flight skincare routine can help maintain your skin’s balance, prevent dehydration, and even leave you with a glowing complexion upon landing.
Why Moisturizing Alone Won’t Cut It
You might think, “I’ll just slather on some moisturizer before the flight and call it a day.” While moisturizer is essential, it’s not the full solution. Think of it like this: moisturizer works by sealing in water, but if your skin doesn’t have enough water to begin with, it won’t be very effective.
What you need is a multi-step approach that includes hydration and protection. Hydrating serums, mists, and oils can replenish your skin’s moisture levels, while a good moisturizer locks it all in. Each product plays its part in ensuring your skin doesn’t dry out mid-air.
And don’t forget SPF. You might not realize it, but at 35,000 feet, the sun’s UV rays are more intense, and airplane windows offer little protection. Applying sunscreen, even if you’re not sitting by the window, is a smart move. The higher you go, the closer you are to those harmful rays, and without protection, your skin is vulnerable to damage.
Timing is Everything
When it comes to in-flight skincare, timing is key. You don’t want to be applying heavy creams at the last minute as the plane starts to descend. Instead, start prepping your skin an hour or two before your flight.
Begin with a gentle cleanse to remove any makeup, dirt, or oil. Airplane air is already drying, so you want to make sure your skin is as clean and hydrated as possible before takeoff. Once you’ve cleansed, apply a hydrating serum that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera. These are humectants, which means they draw moisture into your skin, making them perfect for a drying environment.
Next, lock in that hydration with a rich, but not too greasy, moisturizer. Choose a product with ceramides or fatty acids, which help reinforce your skin’s natural barrier. This will prevent the moisture from escaping while you’re in the air. If you have extra dry skin, consider layering a facial oil over your moisturizer for added nourishment.
Lastly, don’t forget your sunscreen! It’s easy to forget about sun protection when you’re inside an airplane, but as I mentioned earlier, UV rays can be much stronger at high altitudes. Opt for a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher.
Mid-Flight Maintenance
Now that you’ve prepped your skin before takeoff, what should you do while in the air? Short flights might not require too much maintenance, but if you’re on a long-haul journey, you’ll need to check in with your skin.
The goal is to keep your skin hydrated throughout the flight. One of the easiest ways to do this is by using a hydrating facial mist. A spritz of a gentle, alcohol-free mist every hour or two can work wonders to keep your skin fresh and dewy. Just be sure to avoid mists with alcohol or fragrance, as these can be drying.
For longer flights, consider reapplying your serum and moisturizer halfway through. If you’re flying overnight, a sleeping mask can be a great option. These are deeply hydrating and designed to be worn for several hours, so you can arrive at your destination looking well-rested and refreshed.
And here’s a quick tip: stay hydrated from the inside out! Drink plenty of water throughout your flight to help counteract the drying effects of cabin air. Skip the alcohol and caffeine, as these can dehydrate you further.
Addressing Common In-Flight Skin Concerns
You might be wondering, “But what about breakouts?” For some people, airplane air can trigger acne flare-ups due to the combination of dryness and bacteria in the cabin. If this sounds like you, consider bringing along a gentle spot treatment or blemish patch. Salicylic acid is a great option for fighting acne without irritating the skin.
Similarly, if you’re prone to puffy eyes or dark circles, especially after a long flight, an eye cream with caffeine can help reduce puffiness and boost circulation. Don’t forget to pack a pair of sunglasses or an eye mask to block out light and allow your eyes to rest.
For those dealing with sensitive skin, a calming serum or mask that contains ingredients like chamomile or green tea can soothe irritation and prevent redness.
Skincare Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-On
Packing for a flight can be tricky, especially with liquid restrictions, but here’s a quick guide to the skincare essentials you should always have in your carry-on.
First, a gentle, travel-sized cleanser is a must. You’ll want to remove any dirt and oil before applying your skincare. Next, pack a hydrating serum—look for one with hyaluronic acid, as it’s a hydration powerhouse. A rich moisturizer is essential to seal in that hydration, and don’t forget a facial mist to refresh your skin mid-flight.
An SPF of at least 30 is also necessary, especially for daytime flights. Finally, consider a sleeping mask or an overnight cream if you’re traveling overnight or on a long-haul flight.
All of these products should be available in travel-sized versions, so you won’t have any issues with airport security. Just remember to check the airline’s liquid restrictions before packing.
Post-Flight Skincare: The Aftermath
After landing, your skin will likely still need some TLC. The combination of dehydration, fatigue, and possible sun exposure means your skin will be crying out for some attention. As soon as you can, cleanse your face to remove any remnants of the airplane air, and follow up with a hydrating serum and moisturizer. A sheet mask can also be a great way to replenish moisture and soothe tired skin.
And don’t forget sleep is a huge factor in skin health. If you’ve been on a long flight and your sleep schedule is off, try to get back on track as soon as possible. The skin repairs itself while you sleep, so getting enough rest is crucial to keeping it healthy and radiant.
Final Thoughts
An in-flight skincare routine isn’t just for beauty enthusiasts or those with sensitive skin—it’s for anyone who wants to maintain their skin’s health while flying. The effects of cabin air can be harsh, but with the right preparation and products, you can protect your skin and even arrive at your destination glowing.
By taking a few extra steps before, during, and after your flight, you’ll not only feel better but look better too. So, the next time you’re packing your carry-on, don’t forget your skincare essentials. Your skin will thank you!
