Long-haul flights can be harsh on your skin. The dry cabin air, lack of humidity, and extended sitting time can leave your skin feeling dehydrated and dull. However, with the right skincare routine and some helpful tips, you can protect your skin and arrive at your destination looking fresh and radiant. In this blog, we will explore various strategies to keep your skin healthy and hydrated during long flights.
Hydrate from the Inside Out
First and foremost, staying hydrated is crucial. Drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your flight helps to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Since airplane cabins have very low humidity levels, it is easy to become dehydrated. Therefore, it is recommended to drink at least 8 ounces of water every hour during your flight.
Moreover, avoiding alcohol and caffeine is important. Both of these can dehydrate your body further, exacerbating the drying effects of the cabin air. Instead, opt for water, herbal teas, or electrolyte drinks to maintain hydration. Furthermore, eating water-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables can also help to keep your skin hydrated.
Moisturize Your Skin Regularly
Equally important is moisturizing your skin. Before boarding the plane, apply a rich moisturizer to lock in hydration. A good facial oil or serum can also be beneficial. Once you are on the flight, reapply your moisturizer every few hours to combat the dry air. Carrying a travel-sized bottle of your favorite moisturizer in your carry-on is a good idea.
Additionally, using a hydrating facial mist can provide an instant boost of moisture. Spritzing your face with a hydrating mist every hour can help to keep your skin fresh and dewy. Moreover, applying a thick lip balm will protect your lips from drying out.
Protect Your Skin Barrier
Another key aspect is protecting your skin barrier. The skin barrier is your skin’s first line of defense against environmental aggressors. During a flight, this barrier can become compromised due to the dry air. Therefore, using products that strengthen and protect your skin barrier is essential.
For instance, look for moisturizers and serums that contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. These ingredients help to reinforce the skin barrier and retain moisture. Furthermore, avoiding harsh cleansers and exfoliants before and during your flight is advisable, as these can strip your skin of its natural oils and weaken the barrier.
Get Adequate Sleep
Moreover, getting adequate sleep is crucial for your skin health. During a long-haul flight, try to get as much sleep as possible. Not only does sleep help your body recover from the stress of travel, but it also gives your skin time to repair and regenerate. Using a neck pillow, eye mask, and noise-canceling headphones can improve the quality of your sleep.
In addition, applying a sleep mask or overnight treatment before you sleep can provide deep hydration and repair. Products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants are particularly beneficial. These treatments can help to restore moisture and protect your skin from the harsh cabin environment.
Post-Flight Skincare Routine
Finally, having a post-flight skincare routine is essential. Once you arrive at your destination, it is important to cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, and impurities that may have accumulated during the flight. Using a gentle cleanser is recommended to avoid stripping your skin of its natural moisture.
Following cleansing, apply a hydrating toner, serum, and moisturizer to replenish lost moisture. Additionally, using a soothing face mask can help to calm and hydrate your skin. Look for masks that contain ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and hyaluronic acid. Furthermore, drinking plenty of water and continuing to avoid alcohol and caffeine will help to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Long-Haul Flight Skincare Tips
Protecting your skin during long-haul flights requires a combination of hydration, moisturizing, and protecting your skin barrier. By staying hydrated, moisturizing regularly, protecting your skin barrier, getting adequate sleep, and following a post-flight skincare routine, you can keep your skin looking fresh and radiant throughout your journey. Remember, taking care of your skin during a flight is not just about looking good when you land, but also about maintaining your skin’s health in the long term. So, the next time you are preparing for a long-haul flight, make sure to follow these tips and enjoy a comfortable and skin-friendly journey.
