We’ve all been there: stepping off a long-haul flight with skin that feels tight, itchy, and dehydrated. Despite our best efforts to stay hydrated, air travel can be tough on our skin. The dry, recirculated air in the cabin, coupled with the high altitude and exposure to UV radiation, can leave our skin feeling lackluster and uncomfortable.
But don’t worry; there are steps you can take to keep your skin hydrated on a flight, so you can step off the plane feeling fresh and radiant.
In this article, we’ll explore the causes of skin dehydration during a flight and provide practical tips for a pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight skincare routine that will help keep your skin healthy and glowing.
Causes of Skin Dehydration During a Flight
Air travel can be particularly harsh on the skin, leading to dehydration and other skin issues. Here are some of the main causes of skin dehydration during a flight:
Low Humidity Levels in the Cabin Air
The humidity in the cabin of an airplane can be as low as 20%, compared to a normal indoor humidity level of around 40-60%. This low humidity can cause the skin to lose moisture and become dehydrated.
Recirculated Air That Can Strip Moisture From the Skin
The air inside an airplane is recirculated, meaning that it is continuously circulated through the plane’s air conditioning system. This recirculation can lead to moisture removal from the air, which can cause the skin to become dehydrated.
Exposure to Radiation and Uv Light at High Altitudes
When you’re flying at high altitudes, your skin is exposed to higher levels of radiation and UV light than it would be on the ground. This exposure can cause damage to the skin and contribute to dehydration.
Lack of Movement
When you’re sitting on a long flight, you may not be moving around as much as you would on the ground. This lack of movement can cause poor circulation, which in turn can lead to dehydration of the skin.
Inadequate Hydration
If you’re not drinking enough water during the flight, your skin can become dehydrated. The dry environment of the airplane can cause your body to lose water more quickly than it would on the ground, so it’s important to drink plenty of water to keep your skin and body hydrated.
Pre-flight Skincare Routine
A pre-flight skincare routine is an essential step to help maintain your skin’s hydration levels during a flight. Here are some steps to follow for a pre-flight skincare routine:
Hydrate From the Inside Out
Drink plenty of water before and during your flight to help keep your skin hydrated. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can have a dehydrating effect on the skin.
Cleanse Your Skin
Start your skincare routine by cleansing your face with a gentle, non-drying cleanser to remove any makeup, dirt, and oil that may have accumulated on your skin. This step helps to prepare your skin for further hydration.
Exfoliate
Gently exfoliate your skin to remove any dead skin cells that can prevent moisturizers from penetrating the skin. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs).
Apply a Hydrating Serum
A serum is a lightweight, highly concentrated product penetrating deeply into the skin to provide hydration. Choose a hydrating serum that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can help to retain moisture in the skin.
Moisturize
Apply a rich, emollient moisturizer to your skin to help lock in moisture. Look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients like glycerin or ceramides, which can help to strengthen the skin’s barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Use a Hydrating Facial Mist
Spritz a hydrating facial mist on your face to add an extra layer of moisture. This can help to keep your skin hydrated and refreshed during the flight.
In-Flight Skincare Routine
Here’s an in-flight skincare routine that you can follow to help keep your skin hydrated during a flight:
Drink Water Regularly
Staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for your skin during a flight. Aim to drink at least 8 ounces of water for every hour of flight time. Bring a refillable water bottle with you on the flight and ask the flight attendants to refill it as needed.
Use a Facial Mist
A hydrating facial mist can help to refresh and moisturize your skin during a flight. Look for a mist that contains ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or rosewater, which can help to soothe and hydrate the skin. Spritz the mist on your face whenever you need a quick refresh.
Use a Sheet Mask
Sheet masks are a great way to give your skin an extra boost of hydration during a long flight. Choose a mask specifically designed to hydrate and nourish the skin, and apply it according to the instructions on the package.
Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes, then remove it and massage any remaining serum into your skin.
Use a Rich Moisturizer
A rich, emollient moisturizer can help to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated during a flight. Look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, or ceramides, which can help to strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Apply Lip Balm and Hand Cream
Remember to moisturize your lips and hands, which can also become dry and dehydrated during a flight. Apply a nourishing lip balm and hand cream as needed throughout the flight to keep these areas soft and hydrated.
Post-flight Skincare Routine
The post-flight skincare routine is an essential step to help restore the skin’s moisture, reduce inflammation, and promote healing after a long flight. Here are some steps that you can follow to care for your skin after a flight:
Cleanse the Skin
Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove any impurities that may have accumulated during the flight. Avoid using hot water and harsh cleansers, as they can further dry out the skin.
Apply a Nourishing Moisturizer
After cleansing, apply a nourishing moisturizer to your skin. Look for a moisturizer rich in antioxidants and hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides. These ingredients can help repair any damage caused by the flight and restore the skin’s natural barrier.
Use a Facial Oil
To add an extra layer of hydration, you can use facial oil after applying your moisturizer. Facial oils can help lock in moisture and prevent transepidermal water loss. Look for oils that are rich in essential fatty acids, such as rosehip oil or jojoba oil.
Apply Eye Cream
The delicate skin around the eyes can become dehydrated and puffy during a flight. Use an eye cream that contains caffeine or other ingredients that can help reduce inflammation and brighten the under-eye area.
Use a Hydrating Face Mask
If your skin is feeling dehydrated, you can use a hydrating face mask. Look for a mask that contains ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin, which can help replenish lost moisture.
Conclusion
Taking care of your skin during a flight is crucial to maintain its healthy and youthful appearance. The dry cabin air, recirculated air, and exposure to radiation and UV light can leave your skin dehydrated and uncomfortable.
By following a few simple steps, such as drinking plenty of water, applying a rich moisturizer, and using hydrating mists and sheet masks, you can keep your skin hydrated and glowing throughout the flight. And remember to continue your skincare routine after the flight to help restore your skin’s natural balance.
With a little extra attention and care, you can arrive at your destination looking and feeling refreshed, no matter how long the flight may be.
