Air travel can be both exciting and stressful, not just for your body but also for your skin. The unique environment of an airplane cabin, combined with changes in time zones and routines, can take a toll on your complexion. Dry cabin air, reduced oxygen levels, and exposure to germs are some of the factors that contribute to skin stress during flights. Here’s a detailed guide on how to protect your skin from the stresses of air travel and arrive at your destination looking fresh and radiant.
1. Pre-Flight Preparation: Hydrate and Prep Your Skin
Taking care of your skin before you board the plane can help mitigate some of the negative effects of air travel.
Hydrate:
- Drink Water: Start hydrating well before your flight. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water the day before and the day of your flight to ensure your skin is well-hydrated from within.
- Hydrating Skincare: Apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid or glycerin to your face. These humectants draw moisture into the skin, helping to maintain hydration levels.
Moisturize:
- Rich Moisturizer: Use a rich, emollient moisturizer to lock in hydration. Look for ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, and squalane to create a protective barrier on your skin.
- Eye Cream: Apply an eye cream to keep the delicate skin around your eyes hydrated and reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles.
Avoid Heavy Makeup:
- Minimal Makeup: Opt for minimal makeup to allow your skin to breathe. Heavy makeup can clog pores and make your skin feel uncomfortable during long flights.
2. In-Flight Skincare Routine: Maintain Hydration and Protection
The cabin environment can be extremely drying, so it’s important to keep your skin hydrated and protected throughout the flight.
Hydrating Mist:
- Facial Mist: Carry a hydrating facial mist or spray to refresh your skin during the flight. Look for mists containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera, rose water, or cucumber extract. Spray it on your face every few hours to keep your skin hydrated and cool.
Sheet Masks:
- Hydrating Mask: For long-haul flights, consider using a hydrating sheet mask. It’s an easy and effective way to deliver a burst of moisture to your skin. Choose a mask with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or vitamin E to soothe and hydrate.
Moisturize:
- Reapply Moisturizer: Reapply your moisturizer periodically to maintain hydration. A travel-sized version of your favorite moisturizer is handy for in-flight use.
Lip Balm:
- Lip Care: Keep your lips hydrated with a nourishing lip balm. Look for balms with beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil to prevent chapping and dryness.
Hand Cream:
- Hand Care: Apply hand cream regularly to keep your hands soft and hydrated. The dry cabin air can be particularly harsh on the skin of your hands.
3. Sun Protection: Guard Against UV Exposure
Even though you’re inside an airplane, UV rays can still penetrate the windows and affect your skin, especially at high altitudes.
Sunscreen:
- SPF Protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before your flight. This is especially important if you’re sitting by the window. Reapply as necessary, particularly if you’re on a long-haul flight.
4. In-Flight Hygiene: Minimize Exposure to Germs
Airplanes can be breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses, which can cause skin issues and overall health concerns.
Sanitizer:
- Hand Sanitizer: Use hand sanitizer regularly, especially before touching your face or applying skincare products. This helps minimize the transfer of germs to your skin.
- Avoid Touching Face: Try to avoid touching your face as much as possible to reduce the risk of transferring bacteria and causing breakouts.
Wipes:
- Antibacterial Wipes: Carry antibacterial wipes to clean surfaces around your seat, such as tray tables, armrests, and seatbelt buckles. This helps reduce your exposure to germs.
5. Post-Flight Skincare: Rejuvenate and Restore
After your flight, it’s crucial to rejuvenate and restore your skin to counteract the effects of air travel.
Cleanse:
- Gentle Cleanser: As soon as possible after your flight, cleanse your face with a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, and impurities that may have accumulated during the flight.
Exfoliate:
- Mild Exfoliation: Use a mild exfoliant to slough off dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. This helps to brighten your complexion and clear any potential congestion from the flight.
Hydrate:
- Hydrating Serum: Apply a hydrating serum to replenish lost moisture. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera are excellent ingredients to look for.
- Rich Moisturizer: Follow with a rich moisturizer to lock in hydration and repair your skin’s barrier.
Eye Care:
- Eye Cream: Use an eye cream to reduce puffiness and dark circles. Look for ingredients like caffeine, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to soothe and revitalize the eye area.
Sheet Mask:
- Replenishing Mask: Treat your skin to a replenishing sheet mask or a deeply hydrating overnight mask to boost moisture levels and restore your skin’s natural glow.
Hydrate Internally:
- Drink Water: Continue to drink plenty of water after your flight to maintain hydration from the inside out.
- Balanced Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants to support overall skin health.
Conclusion
Air travel can be stressful for your skin, but with the right preparation and in-flight skincare routine, you can protect and maintain your complexion. By staying hydrated, using appropriate skincare products, and taking post-flight restorative steps, you can minimize the negative effects of air travel on your skin. These tips will help you arrive at your destination with healthy, glowing skin, ready to enjoy your travels.