How does flying affect the skin?

An in-flight skincare routine can help alleviate some of the stress your skin faces during a flight.

story highlights

• Flying is not only stressful on the body, it can also be damaging to the skin
• Remove make-up before a long-haul flight
• Spritz your skin with a toner to hydrate and refresh it
• Apply a heavy moisturiser before a midday nap
• Pack an eye cream to brighten your eye area
• Drink lots of water!

Imagine this scenario: Zero humidity, recycled air, lots of chemicals, and fluctuating temperatures. You're strapped to your seat with your knees near your ears. Your hands are swollen from fluid retention and your joints are stiff from lack of range of motion. Sound familiar?

Flying is not only exhausting for your body, but it can be devastating for your skin: The unnatural pressure on an airplane strips the skin of moisture and causes it to dry out.

An in-flight skincare routine can help alleviate some of the stress your skin is under. So, dear jet-setter, get ready to take notes!

1. Remove your makeup if you're taking a long haul flight. You wouldn't sleep with makeup on. So cleanse your skin before you get ready for the flight. We love the UltraCalming Cleanser to get the job done. Tiny bathrooms and water don't have to be! Stay put with this gel/cream cleanser that only needs to be removed with a tissue (and has a little elbow room).
2. Spray your skin with your favorite toner every now and then to moisturize and refresh during the flight (make sure you don't spray your neighbor).
3. Pack a heavy-duty moisturizer like Intensive Moisture Balance to keep your skin comfortable during the flight. Apply a generous amount before nap time to keep your skin hydrated and plump before landing. If you plan to apply makeup just before takeoff, this step will also prepare your skin for a flawless finish.
4. Your eyes may be a little puffy from lack of sleep. So apply a soothing eye cream like Stress Positive Eye Lift or Biolumin-C Eye Serum before landing to brighten your eyes.

Don't forget to drink plenty of fluids during the flight. Remember, a little water goes a long way. Save the alcohol for your vacation destination and opt for in-flight water instead!