Jet-Set Glow: How to Keep Your Skin Hydrated During Flights

If you love traveling to exciting, far-flung destinations, you're probably familiar with the experience of stepping off a plane after hours in the air and feeling less than fresh. Between the blasting air-con, altitude changes, and lack of humidity, flights can leave your skin dry, tight, and far from its radiant best.

But don’t worry. With our simple tips, you can leave the plane looking as dewy and glowing as you did when you boarded. Keep reading to learn how you can maintain hydrated, healthy skin while flying so your jet-set lifestyle doesn’t come with a desert-dry complexion.

Why Does Flying Dry Out Your Skin?

Before we jump into solutions, it’s important to understand why flying takes such a toll on your skin. The main culprit is the airplane cabin environment.

At high altitudes, the air inside the cabin is recirculated and typically has low humidity levels, usually ranging from 10 to 20%. To put that into perspective, most people find a humidity level between 30 to 60% most comfortable.

When the air around you is dry, it begins to pull moisture from anywhere it can, including your skin. So, while you’re sitting comfortably in your seat, watching the latest in-flight blockbuster movie, or engrossed in your new book, your skin is losing precious hydration.

And since airplane cabins are also pressurized, this stress on your skin can lead to breakouts, irritation, or an overall dull complexion. But it’s not all doom and gloom. With some thoughtful preparation and in-flight care, you can counteract these effects and keep your skin looking fresh and fabulous.

Hydrate from the Inside Out

It might sound cliché, but staying hydrated from the inside out is your first line of defense when flying. Cabin conditions can easily dehydrate you, and when your body is low on fluids, your skin is one of the first places it shows.

Drinking water consistently during your flight helps your skin retain some of its natural moisture and gives you an edge in fighting off the drying effects of airplane air. Of course, it’s tempting to sip on a glass of wine or indulge in a fun cocktail to kick off your vacation, but try to limit alcohol and caffeine intake during your flight. These drinks act as diuretics, which means they can further dehydrate your body, leaving your skin even thirstier.

Prep Your Skin Pre-Flight

One of the best things you can do for your skin happens before you even get on the plane. Start with a clean slate: wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup.

Then, apply a hydrating serum to give your skin a solid moisture base. Look for serums packed with hyaluronic acid, which helps your skin retain moisture, such as the Revision Hydrating Serum, which contains two forms.

After your serum, seal in the hydration with a rich moisturizer. If you’re flying during the day, don’t forget sunscreen. Those airplane windows may seem small, but they can let UV rays shine in, which can still damage your skin at higher altitudes. A broad-spectrum SPF will protect your skin from harmful sun exposure before, during, and after the flight.

Apply Some Mid-Flight Moisture

Once you’re in the air, your skin is going to need a little extra love. A hydrating mist, like the Replenix Soothing Antioxidant Mist, can be your best friend during a flight.

Keep a travel-sized spray handy and give your face a gentle spritz throughout the flight. Not only does it feel refreshing, but it also helps your skin maintain moisture in the ultra-dry cabin air.

For longer flights, a hydrating sheet mask can be a real lifesaver for your skin. If you’re comfortable with it, this is a perfect opportunity to indulge in some in-flight skincare pampering.

Just pop on a mask for ten to fifteen minutes, and your skin will thank you when you land. Plus, you might even inspire your seatmates to up their skincare game for their next flight.

Don’t forget to reapply your moisturizer during the flight, especially if your skin feels tight or uncomfortable. A lightweight, non-greasy option works best for layering. Think of it like giving your skin a drink of water every few hours.

Practice Post-Flight Care to Refresh Your Skin

The moment you land, your skin might still be feeling the effects of your flight, so post-flight care is crucial. Once you’re at your final destination, give your face a thorough cleanse to remove any lingering dirt, oil, or impurities that might have collected during the flight.

After cleansing, apply a deeply hydrating serum and a thicker-than-usual moisturizer to help replenish your skin’s moisture barrier. This is the perfect time to indulge in an overnight hydrating mask or a rich cream that can work its magic while you sleep.

The Travel-Skincare Essentials to Pack

While you don’t need to pack your entire skincare collection, having a few travel-sized essentials can make all the difference. A gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, travel-friendly moisturizer, and refreshing mist are must-haves. And if you have a long-haul flight, consider bringing along an eye cream or gel to keep your under-eyes looking bright and refreshed.

Flying doesn’t have to be a one-way ticket to dry, tired-looking skin. With a little planning and some mid-flight TLC, you can keep your skin hydrated and glowing from takeoff to touchdown.

The next time you’re jetting off to your dream destination, remember to give your skin the love and care it deserves. After all, your skin should always look like it’s on vacation.

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