Maintain Healthy Skin During Long-Haul Flights

Ever stepped off a long-haul flight feeling like you’ve aged a decade? You’re not alone. The cabins harsh, dry air and recirculated environment can wreak havoc on your skin. As a frequent traveler and someone deeply passionate about skin health, I’ve had my fair share of trial and error when it comes to maintaining that post-flight glow. Today, I’m spilling my in-flight skincare secrets to keep your complexion fresh and hydrated, no matter how long you’re up in the air.

A little about me I’m Rodrigo, a cosmetic dentist by profession, but my passion extends far beyond smiles. Since moving from the Bay Area to the vibrant city of Istanbul, I’ve embraced the local culture and become somewhat of a skincare enthusiast. And let me tell you, nothing tests your skincare routine like a 10+ hour flight. So, let’s dive into my tried-and-true tips for keeping your skin happy and healthy at 30,000 feet.

First things first, hydration is key. It’s no secret that flying dehydrates you, both inside and out. So, it’s crucial to drink plenty of water throughout your journey. But is that enough on its own? Let’s consider what else you can do.

Your In-Flight Skincare Routine

Before You Fly

Preparation starts before you even set foot on the plane. Exfoliation is essential as it helps remove dead skin cells and allows your skin to better absorb the products you’ll apply in-flight. I like to use a gentle exfoliant the night before I travel to give my skin a fresh start.

On the day of your flight, make sure to cleanse your skin thoroughly before applying a moisturizer. This will help create a protective barrier against the harsh cabin air. I’m torn between using a cream or gel moisturizer, but ultimately, I think it depends on your skin type. If you’re on the dry side, go for a cream. For oily or combination skin, a gel might be the better choice.

In-Flight Essentials

Once you’re settled in your seat, it’s time to pull out your in-flight skincare essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Facial wipes or micellar water
• Hydrating mist or toner
• Rich moisturizer or sleeping mask
• Lip balm
• Eye cream or patches
• Hand cream
• Sunscreen (if flying during the day)

Now, you might be thinking, ‘Rodrigo, that’s a lot of products to juggle on a plane.’ And you’re right, it is. But remember, you’re not applying all these at once. Instead, think of your in-flight skincare as a series of steps to keep your skin happy throughout the journey.

Mid-Flight Refresh

A few hours into your flight, it’s time for a refresh. Start by cleansing your face with a facial wipe or micellar water. This will help remove any impurities that have accumulated on your skin. Next, spritz your face with a hydrating mist or toner. I like to use one with hyaluronic acid for an extra boost of hydration.

Once your skin is nicely damp, lock in that moisture with a rich moisturizer or sleeping mask. I know, it might feel a bit indulgent to use a sleeping mask on a plane, but trust me, your skin will thank you. And don’t forget your lips and eyes apply a generous layer of lip balm and eye cream or patches to keep these delicate areas hydrated.

Maybe I should clarify, when I say ‘generous layer,’ I don’t mean slather it on like you’re icing a cake. Just use enough to ensure your skin feels well-moisturized.

Hydrate from Within

We’ve talked about hydrating your skin from the outside, but it’s just as important to stay hydrated from within. Drink plenty of water throughout your flight, and try to avoid too much caffeine and alcohol, as these can further dehydrate you.

I try to drink at least one liter of water for every six hours of flight time. It might mean a few extra trips to the bathroom, but your skin will definitely appreciate it.

Don’t Forget Sun Protection

If you’re flying during the day, don’t forget to apply sunscreen. Those tiny airplane windows might not look like much, but UV rays can still penetrate through them. Make sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours or so to keep your skin protected.

Combat Puffiness

Ever noticed how your feet, ankles, and even your face can swell up during a long flight? It’s due to fluid retention, and it’s completely normal. To combat puffiness, try to move around the cabin as much as you can. A quick walk up and down the aisle every hour or so can help get your blood flowing and reduce swelling.

You can also try some gentle facial massages to stimulate lymphatic drainage. Just be mindful of your seatmates you might get some strange looks if you’re vigorously massaging your face mid-flight!

Hand Care

With all this focus on your face, let’s not forget about your hands. The skin on your hands is thin and delicate, making it particularly susceptible to dehydration. Make sure to apply hand cream regularly throughout your flight to keep your hands soft and supple.

Is this really necessary, you might ask. Let me tell you, there’s nothing worse than stepping off a long flight with hands that feel like sandpaper. Trust me on this one.

Prepare for Landing

As your flight begins its descent, it’s time to prep your skin for landing. Start by gently removing any remaining product from your face with a facial wipe. Then, apply a light layer of moisturizer, followed by a touch of concealer or foundation if you’d like.

I usually avoid wearing makeup on long flights, but that’s just my personal preference. If you do choose to wear makeup, opt for light, hydrating products that won’t clog your pores or accentuate dryness.

Post-Flight Recovery

Congrats, you’ve made it through your long-haul flight! But before you hit the ground running, take a moment to give your skin some post-flight TLC.

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove any remaining product or impurities. Then, apply a generous layer of your favorite moisturizer to help your skin recover from its journey.

If you have the time, a sheet mask or a DIY face mask can work wonders for post-flight skin. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water to help your body rehydrate.

The Challenge

So there you have it my ultimate guide to maintaining healthy skin during long-haul flights. It might seem like a lot at first, but with a bit of practice, you’ll be a pro at in-flight skincare in no time.

I challenge you to give these tips a try on your next long flight. See which ones work best for you, and don’t be afraid to mix and match products to suit your skin’s unique needs. And if you have any in-flight skincare secrets of your own, I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!

FAQ

Q: Can I wear makeup on a long-haul flight?
A: While it’s generally best to avoid wearing makeup on long flights, if you must, opt for light, hydrating products that won’t clog your pores or accentuate dryness.

Q: How often should I apply moisturizer during a flight?
A: It depends on your skin type and the length of your flight, but a good rule of thumb is to apply moisturizer every 3-4 hours to keep your skin hydrated.

Q: Can I use a humidifier on a plane?
A: Portable humidifiers are generally not allowed on planes due to safety regulations. Instead, focus on keeping your skin hydrated with the right products and drinking plenty of water.

Q: How can I combat jet lag and its effects on my skin?
A: Staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and maintaining a consistent skincare routine can all help combat the effects of jet lag on your skin.

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