Inflight skincare: Tips to take care of your skin mid-air

Skincare tips during flight: Moisturising is key to combating the dry air in the cabin. Pack a travel-sized moisturiser and apply it generously throughout your flight (Image: Canva)

Flying can be a wonderful experience, but it can wreak havoc on your skin. The dry cabin air, low humidity, and recycled air can leave your skin feeling dehydrated and dull. However, with the right skincare routine, you can keep your skin glowing even at 30,000 feet. Here are some tips on how to take care of your skin mid-air and arrive at your destination looking refreshed and rejuvenated:

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: One of the most important things you can do for your skin while flying is to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate your skin further.

Moisturise: Moisturising is key to combating the dry air in the cabin. Pack a travel-sized moisturiser and apply it generously throughout your flight. Look for a moisturiser that contains hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin.

Protect your skin: Even though you're inside a plane, you're still exposed to harmful UV rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before your flight, especially if you have a window seat. Don't forget to reapply every few hours, as sunscreen can wear off over time.

Skip the makeup: While it's tempting to wear makeup while flying, it can actually do more harm than good. Makeup can clog your pores and exacerbate dryness, especially in the dry cabin air. Instead, opt for a bare face or just a tinted moisturiser to let your skin breathe.

Try sheet masks: Sheet masks are a great way to give your skin an extra boost of hydration mid-flight. Pack a few sheet masks in your carry-on and apply one halfway through your flight. Not only will it hydrate your skin, but it'll also give you a spa-like experience in the air.

Use eye cream: The delicate skin around your eyes is particularly susceptible to dryness and puffiness while flying. Pack an eye cream containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or caffeine to keep your under-eye area looking bright and refreshed.

Don’t skip the lip balm: Don't forget to hydrate your lips as well! Pack a nourishing lip balm to prevent chapping and keep your lips soft and supple throughout the flight.

Stay fresh: Bring along some facial mist or rosewater spray to spritz on your face throughout the flight. Not only will it feel refreshing, but it'll also help to rehydrate your skin and keep it looking dewy.

Avoid touching your face: It's tempting to rest your chin on your hand or touch your face during a long flight, but try to avoid it as much as possible. Your hands can transfer dirt and bacteria to your face, leading to breakouts and irritation.

Pack hydrating snacks: Take along some hydrating snacks like cucumber slices, watermelon cubes, or celery sticks to munch on during the flight. Not only are they refreshing, but they also contain high water content, which will help keep you hydrated from the inside out.