Essential Skin Care Tips for Long Flights: Keep Your Skin Happy at 30,000 Feet

Picture this: you’re on a long-haul flight, crammed into your seat, and the air is drier than the Sahara. It’s a recipe for disaster when it comes to your skin. But fear not! As a seasoned cosmetic dentist and doctor with a deep passion for aesthetic medicine, I’m here to share some essential skin care tips for long flights that’ll keep your skin glowing even after hours in the air. Trust me, your skin will thank you.

I remember my first long-haul flight from the Bay Area to Istanbul. By the time I landed, my skin was a messdry, dull, and just overall unhappy. Since then, I’ve made it a point to figure out the best ways to keep my skin in check while flying. And let me tell you, it’s made a world of difference. So, let’s dive into some skin care tips that’ll make your next flight a breeze.

First things first, why does flying wreak havoc on our skin? Well, it’s all about the air up there. The cabin air is incredibly dry, with humidity levels often below 20%. That’s less than half of what we’re used to on the ground. Plus, the recycled air and pressure changes don’t help either. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some simple yet effective tips.

Prep Before You Fly: Hydration Station

Hydration is key when it comes to keeping your skin happy on long flights. And I’m not just talking about slapping on some moisturizer (although that’s important too). I’m talking about hydrating from the inside out.

Start prepping your skin a day or two before your flight. Drink plenty of waterI try to aim for at least 8 glasses a day. And lay off the caffeine and alcohol, as tempting as that pre-flight mimosa might be. Trust me, your skin will thank you later.

I usually chug a massive bottle of water before boarding, and then I make sure to ask the flight attendant for more once Im on the plane. I can confirm that the extra bit of hydration goes a long way.

Cleanse and Moisturize: The Dynamic Duo

Before you even set foot on the plane, make sure you’ve cleansed your face. You want to start with a clean slate, free from any makeup or dirt that could clog your pores mid-flight. I usually go for a gentle cleanser that won’t strip my skin of its natural oils.

Once you’re all clean, it’s time to moisturize. And I mean really slather it on. I like to use a thick, creamy moisturizer for long flightssomething that’ll create a barrier between my skin and the dry cabin air. Don’t be afraid to go a little heavier than you normally would. Your skin is going to need all the help it can get.

Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the alternatives. Some people swear by sheet masks mid-flight, but I find them a bit messy and not always practical. Ultimately, it’s about what works best for you. Maybe I should clarify that everyone’s skin is different, so experiment a bit to find your perfect routine.

Mist It Up: The Power of Face Mists

Face mists are a game-changer when it comes to in-flight skin care. They’re a quick and easy way to give your skin a boost of hydration mid-flight. I like to bring a travel-sized bottle with me and give my face a good spritz every few hours. It feels refreshing and helps keep my skin from drying out.

Look for a mist with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can even find mists with added benefits like soothing aloe vera or antioxidant-rich green tea. Just make sure it’s in a travel-friendly size so you can breeze through security.

Eye Cream: Your Under-Eye Savior

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, making it more susceptible to dryness and irritation. That’s why eye cream is a must for long flights. Look for one with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to keep that under-eye area plump and happy.

I usually apply a generous amount before I board and then reapply mid-flight if I’m feeling extra dry. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in how refreshed you look (and feel) when you land.

Lip Balm: Dont Forget Your Lips

Your lips need love too! The dry cabin air can leave them feeling chapped and uncomfortable. So, make sure you’ve got a good lip balm on hand. I prefer something with beeswax or shea butter for that extra layer of protection.

Apply it liberally before you board and then reapply as needed throughout the flight. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than landing with dry, cracked lips. It’s a small but crucial step in your in-flight skin care routine.

Hand Cream: Because Your Hands Need Love Too

Your hands are just as exposed to the dry cabin air as your face, so don’t forget to give them some TLC. A good hand cream can work wonders in keeping your hands soft and hydrated. Look for one with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or shea butter.

I usually apply a generous amount before I board and then reapply every few hours. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in how your hands feel when you land. Plus, it’s a great excuse to give yourself a little hand massage mid-flight.

Sunscreen: Yes, Even on the Plane

You might think you’re safe from the sun’s rays at 30,000 feet, but think again. Those plane windows don’t block out UV rays, so you’re still at risk of sun damage. That’s why sunscreen is a must, even on the plane.

Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it before you board and then reapply every two hours if you’re sitting by the window. It’s an extra step that can save your skin from unwanted damage.

Is this really necessary? I mean, you’re not exactly sunbathing on the beach. But ultimately, I think it’s better to be safe than sorry. Your skin will thank you in the long run.

Avoid Touching Your Face: Hands Off!

This one’s a biggie. Airplanes are notorious for being germ-filled environments, and the last thing you want is to transfer those germs to your face. So, avoid touching your face as much as possible.

If you do need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean. I always bring a travel-sized hand sanitizer with me and use it liberally throughout the flight. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in keeping your skin (and your health) in check.

Bring Your Own Pillowcase

This might seem a bit extra, but hear me out. Those airline pillows and blankets are not exactly the epitome of cleanliness. Bringing your own pillowcase can help keep your skin free from any unwanted germs or bacteria.

I usually bring a silk or satin pillowcase with me. They’re gentler on your skin and hair, and they feel a bit more luxurious too. It’s a small upgrade that can make a big difference in your in-flight comfort.

Stay Hydrated: Water is Your Best Friend

I know I’ve already talked about hydration, but it’s so important that it’s worth mentioning again. Staying hydrated is key to keeping your skin happy on long flights. So, drink up!

I try to aim for at least one glass of water per hour of flight time. It might mean a few extra trips to the bathroom, but trust me, your skin will thank you. And lay off the caffeine and alcoholthey’ll only dehydrate you more.

Post-Flight Pick-Me-Up: Revive and Refresh

Once you’ve landed, it’s time to give your skin a little post-flight pick-me-up. Start by cleansing your face to remove any dirt or bacteria you might have picked up on the plane. Then, apply a generous amount of moisturizer to help replenish any lost hydration.

I also like to use a refreshing face mask post-flight. Something with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or cucumber can work wonders in reviving tired skin. It’s a great way to give your skin a little extra TLC after a long journey.

Ready to Take Your Skin Care Routine to New Heights?

There you have itmy top tips for keeping your skin happy on long flights. It might seem like a lot, but trust me, a little prep goes a long way in keeping your skin looking and feeling its best.

So, next time you’re gearing up for a long-haul flight, give these tips a try. Your skin will thank you! And who knows, you might just step off the plane looking more refreshed than when you boarded. Now that’s what I call a successful flight.

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, why not take advantage of the incredible aesthetic and dental services available? At DC Total Care, we offer a range of treatments to help you look and feel your best. From skin care and laser treatments to cosmetic dentistry, we’ve got you covered. Check us out at dctotalcare.com and see what we can do for you. Your journey to better skin and health starts here!

FAQ

Q: How often should I reapply moisturizer during a long flight?
A: It depends on your skin type and the length of your flight, but generally, reapplying every 3-4 hours should do the trick. If your skin is particularly dry, you might need to reapply more frequently.

Q: Can I use a sheet mask on the plane?
A: Absolutely! Sheet masks can be a great way to give your skin a boost of hydration mid-flight. Just be aware that they can be a bit messy, so you might want to save them for longer flights where you have more time to relax.

Q: Is it okay to wear makeup on a long flight?
A: It’s generally best to avoid wearing makeup on long flights. The dry cabin air can cause makeup to settle into fine lines and pores, leading to breakouts and irritation. If you must wear makeup, opt for light, breathable products and remove them as soon as possible.

Q: How can I keep my hands hydrated during a flight?
A: Bring a good hand cream with you and apply it liberally before you board and throughout the flight. Look for one with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or shea butter to keep your hands soft and hydrated.

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