How to Prep Your Skin for Flights: In-Flight Skincare Tips from a Master Esthetician
There’s something magical about watching the sunrise from a plane window, but the dry, recycled cabin air? Not so magical. On a recent trip to Arizona, my skin was struggling—tight, flaky, and dull. That flight reminded me just how harsh air travel can be on your skin, especially when you’re heading somewhere dry.
Over the years, I’ve figured out a simple in-flight routine that keeps my skin hydrated and happy from takeoff to landing. Whether you’re flying across the country or heading somewhere sunny like Arizona, here’s how to prep your skin so it arrives just as refreshed as you feel.
How I Prep My Skin Before & During Flights
1. Layer Hydration
Before I leave for the airport, I apply a hydrating toner, a hyaluronic acid serum, a rich moisturizer, and always SPF. It’s like a moisture sandwich to protect your skin.
2. Ditch the Makeup
I skip makeup on travel days and let my skin breathe. A tinted SPF is all I need if I want a little glow.
3. Use a No-Rinse Moisture Mask
This is my secret weapon. A clear, leave-on hydration mask acts like a barrier between your skin and that dry cabin air.
4. Hydrating Mist
I pack a travel-sized facial mist and use it mid-flight to refresh my skin and give it a boost of moisture.
5. Lip Balm & Eye Cream
The thin skin around your eyes and lips dries out fast on flights. I never board without both.
6. Hand Cream + Cuticle Oil
Airplane soap is brutal. A little travel hand cream and a cuticle oil pen make a big difference.
My Travel Skincare Essentials:
Even just a few of these can help you land with glowing, hydrated skin—even in dry destinations like Arizona.
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