Protecting Your Skin During Long Flights: Essential Tips

Ever stepped off a long flight feeling like your skin has aged a decade? You’re not alone. The dry, recycled air in airplane cabins can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving it dehydrated, dull, and even prone to breakouts. As a frequent traveler and a doctor with a passion for aesthetic medicine, I’ve had my fair share of post-flight skin woes. But over the years, I’ve honed in on a skincare routine that really works. So, let’s dive into the tips and tricks that’ll help you step off your next long-haul flight with fresh, glowing skin.

Why Is Flying So Hard on Your Skin?

Before we get into the how let’s quickly touch on the why. Airplane cabins have extremely low humidity, often less than 20%. This is much drier than the average indoor humidity, which hovers around 30-50%. The result? Your skin loses moisture rapidly, leading to dryness, flakiness, and even fine lines. Plus, the constant exposure to recycled air and various environmental factors can lead to increased sensitivity and breakouts.

Your In-Flight Skincare Routine

1. Prep Before You Fly

A solid skincare routine starts even before you board. The night before your flight, make sure to exfoliate gently to remove any dead skin cells. Follow this up with a hydrating mask to plump up your skin and give it an extra dose of moisture. I’m a big fan of sheet masks for this purpose they’re convenient and travel-friendly.

2. Cleanse On-the-Go

Once you’re on the flight, start by cleansing your skin. I know, it sounds a bit extra, but trust me, it makes a difference. You don’t need to do a full-on cleanse with water and a face wash. Instead, use a gentle micellar water or cleansing wipes to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup. This step is crucial because it allows your skin to better absorb the products you’ll apply next.

3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Hydration is the name of the game when it comes to in-flight skincare. After cleansing, apply a generous layer of moisturizer. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides, which are known for their hydrating properties. I’m torn between using a cream or a gel moisturizer, but ultimately, I think it depends on your skin type. If you’re on the oily side, go with a gel. If you’re dry or combination, a cream might be your best bet.

And here’s a pro tip: apply a slightly thicker layer of moisturizer than you normally would. The air in the cabin is so drying that a regular amount might not cut it. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider this you can always blot off any excess if your skin feels too greasy.

4. Don’t Forget the Eye Area

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate, making it more susceptible to dehydration. Use an eye cream or a hydrating eye mask to keep this area plump and hydrated. I love using eye masks because they create a barrier that locks in moisture.

5. Lip Service

Lips need love too! The cabin air can leave your lips feeling parched, so make sure to apply a thick layer of lip balm. Look for balms with ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, or petrolatum, which are great for sealing in moisture.

6. SPF is a Must

Just because you’re not on the beach doesn’t mean you can skip the sunscreen. If you’re sitting by the window, you’re exposed to UVA rays, which can penetrate glass and cause premature aging. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin.

7. Stay Hydrated Inside Out

Drinking plenty of water is just as important as applying moisturizer. Aim to drink at least 8 ounces of water every hour you’re in the air. This will help replenish the moisture that’s being sucked out of your skin by the dry cabin air.

8. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

It’s tempting to enjoy a glass of wine or a cup of coffee on a long flight, but both alcohol and caffeine are diuretics, meaning they increase urine production and can lead to dehydration. If you must indulge, make sure to drink extra water to compensate.

9. Refresh Mid-Flight

On longer flights, it’s a good idea to do a mid-flight refresh. Use a mist or a toner to rehydrate your skin and follow it up with another layer of moisturizer. This will help keep your skin feeling fresh and looking dewy.

10. Post-Flight Care

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, make sure to cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove any buildup of oil, dirt, or bacteria. Follow this up with a hydrating mask or a sheet mask to give your skin an extra boost of moisture. Maybe I should clarify, your skin is in recovery mode at this point, so it’s important to be gentle and focus on hydration.

Adapt Your Routine to Your Skin Type

While the above tips are general guidelines, it’s important to adapt them to your specific skin type. If you have oily skin, you might want to opt for gel moisturizers and avoid heavy creams. If you have dry skin, consider using a hydrating serum underneath your moisturizer for an extra boost. Those with sensitive skin should stick to fragrance-free products to avoid irritation.

The Challenge: Glowing Skin at 30,000 Feet

So, here’s your challenge: try out these tips on your next long-haul flight and see the difference for yourself. It might feel a bit strange at first to go through a full skincare routine on a plane, but trust me, your skin will thank you. And who knows, you might even inspire your fellow passengers to up their in-flight skincare game!

FAQ

Q: Should I wear makeup on a long flight?
A: It’s best to avoid wearing makeup on long flights. Makeup can trap oil and bacteria, leading to breakouts. Plus, it can be drying, which is the last thing your skin needs in an already dehydrating environment.

Q: Can I use a sheet mask on the plane?
A: Absolutely! Sheet masks are a great way to give your skin an extra dose of hydration mid-flight. Just make sure to choose one that’s suitable for your skin type.

Q: How can I deal with post-flight breakouts?
A: Post-flight breakouts can be frustrating, but they’re usually a result of dehydration and built-up oil. Make sure to cleanse your skin thoroughly after your flight and use a spot treatment to target any blemishes.

Q: What if I dont have all these products with me?
A: If you dont have all these products, dont worry. The key is to focus on hydration. Even a simple moisturizer can go a long way in protecting your skin during a long flight. And remember, drinking plenty of water is just as important.

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