How to Keep Skin Hydrated on a Plane

Introduction

Have you ever landed from a long flight only to be greeted by dry, dull skin that makes you look and feel less than your best? You're not alone! It's a well-documented fact that airplane cabins have extremely low humidity—often between 10 to 20 percent—compared to the ideal 40 to 60 percent found in most indoor environments. This drastic difference can pull moisture from our skin, leaving it parched and lifeless.

We understand that navigating the world of skincare while traveling can be confusing. With so many factors at play—like cabin pressure, the quality of air, and the stress of travel—it's crucial to have a solid skincare strategy in place. In this blog post, we will walk you through effective methods to keep your skin hydrated during flights. From pre-flight preparations to in-flight routines and post-flight care, we've got you covered.

So, let's embark on this journey together and explore how to keep your skin hydrated and radiant at 30,000 feet!

Understanding the Effects of Air Travel on Your Skin

When we step on an airplane, we enter an environment that is often detrimental to our skin. The low humidity and recycled air can wreak havoc, causing dryness, irritation, and even breakouts.

1. Dehydration: The dry air inside an aircraft can pull moisture from your skin, leaving it feeling tight and flaky. This is especially concerning for those with dry or sensitive skin.
2. Aging Effects: Prolonged exposure to low humidity can accelerate the signs of aging. Dehydrated skin can appear dull, leading to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
3. Acne Flare-Ups: For those with oily skin, the lack of moisture can cause the skin to overcompensate by producing excess oil, potentially leading to breakouts.
4. Sensitivity: Changes in cabin pressure can also affect blood circulation, leading to puffiness and redness, especially around the eyes.

Understanding these effects can help us take proactive steps to mitigate them. By implementing a thoughtful skincare routine, we can significantly improve our in-flight skin health.

Pre-Flight Skincare: Setting the Stage for Hydration

Before we even step on the plane, it's essential to prepare our skin for the journey ahead. Here’s how:

1. Hydrate from the Inside Out

Staying hydrated begins long before you board the plane. Make sure to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your flight. A well-hydrated body supports better skin hydration.

2. Cleanse and Exfoliate

Start your pre-flight skincare routine with a gentle cleanse to remove any impurities and excess oils. This sets a clean canvas for your hydrating products.

Consider using a gentle exfoliator a day or two before your flight. This helps to slough off dead skin cells, allowing your hydrating products to penetrate more effectively. However, avoid exfoliating right before the flight to prevent irritation.

3. Apply a Hydrating Serum

Using a hydrating serum, particularly one that includes hyaluronic acid, can deliver an intense moisture boost to your skin. Hyaluronic acid is known for its ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a powerhouse for hydration.

For optimal results, we recommend our Stem Cell C Serum. This advanced formula not only hydrates but also brightens your complexion and protects against environmental stressors.

4. Lock in Moisture with a Rich Moisturizer

After applying your serum, seal in the hydration with a rich, nourishing moisturizer. Look for products that contain ingredients like ceramides or shea butter, which help create a barrier to lock in moisture.

Our Hyaluronic Brightening Moisturizer is an ideal choice, delivering deep hydration while also brightening the skin.

5. Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

Even at cruising altitude, UV rays can penetrate through windows, which is why applying sunscreen is crucial. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 and apply it generously. This protects your skin from potential UV damage, which can accelerate aging.

In-Flight Hydration Strategies: Maintaining Moisture

Once you're airborne, maintaining hydration becomes the focus. Here are our top tips for keeping your skin looking its best during the flight:

1. Layer Your Skincare

Just like layering clothing for warmth, layering your skincare products can help retain moisture. Start with a hydrating toner to prep your skin, followed by your serum and moisturizer.

2. Avoid Face Mists

While face mists are often touted as a quick hydration fix, they can actually worsen dryness in the airplane environment. Spraying water on your skin may attract moisture from your skin instead of the air, leading to even drier skin.

3. Reapply Hydrating Products

If your flight is lengthy, consider reapplying your moisturizer or serum every few hours. This is especially important if you feel your skin starting to dry out.

4. Use a Protective Face Oil

Consider applying a hydrating face oil as your last step before the flight. Oils can create a protective barrier that helps prevent moisture loss. However, make sure to apply it after your moisturizer to avoid any interference with the absorption of your skincare products.

5. Stay Hydrated Internally

Drink plenty of water throughout the flight. Although water alone won't keep your skin hydrated, it’s essential for overall health and can help combat the effects of dry cabin air. Keep a reusable water bottle handy to remind you to sip regularly.

6. Get Up and Move

Sitting for extended periods can reduce blood circulation and lead to puffiness. Take short walks down the aisle, stretch your legs, and do some light exercises to keep your blood flowing. This can also help reduce swelling and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

Post-Flight Skincare: Rehydrating and Reviving

Once you've landed, it’s crucial to give your skin the TLC it needs to recover from the flight. Here’s how to rejuvenate and rehydrate your skin after traveling:

1. Cleanse Thoroughly

Upon arrival, cleanse your skin to remove any buildup of dirt, oil, or products that may have accumulated during the flight. Use a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.

Our Superfood Cleanser is perfect for this step, as it gently cleanses while nourishing your skin.

2. Exfoliate

Once your skin is clean, consider using a gentle exfoliator to remove any dead skin cells that may have accumulated. This will help to brighten your complexion and improve the absorption of subsequent products.

3. Rehydrate with Masks

For an extra boost of hydration, use a hydrating face mask. Look for masks that contain ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin E to replenish moisture and soothe any irritation.

4. Follow Up with a Serum and Moisturizer

After using a mask, follow up with your serum and a rich moisturizer to lock in hydration. This helps to restore your skin’s moisture barrier and keeps it looking plump and radiant.

5. Don’t Forget Eye Care

The skin around your eyes can be especially sensitive and prone to puffiness after a flight. Use a hydrating eye cream or gel to soothe and refresh this area.

6. Maintain Consistency

To keep your skin looking its best, maintain a consistent skincare routine in the days following your flight. Hydrate, cleanse, and protect your skin daily to ensure it remains healthy and glowing.

Conclusion

Traveling doesn't have to mean sacrificing your skin's health. By understanding the effects of air travel on your skin and implementing thoughtful pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight skincare routines, we can keep our skin hydrated and glowing no matter where we go.

To make the most of your skincare journey, we encourage you to explore our Bundle & Save collection, which allows you to experience the full range of our core products at a better value. Together, we'll keep your skin radiant and healthy through every phase of life.

FAQ

1. How often should I apply moisturizer during a flight?

We recommend applying your moisturizer at the start of your flight and reapplying it every few hours, especially if you notice your skin feeling dry.

2. Can I use a face mist on a plane?

It's best to avoid using a face mist during flights, as the dry air can draw moisture from your skin instead of adding it.

3. What’s the best way to hydrate my skin after landing?

Start by cleansing your skin, followed by exfoliation, a hydrating mask, and then applying your serum and moisturizer.

4. Is it necessary to wear sunscreen on a plane?

Yes, even at high altitudes, UV rays can penetrate through windows, so wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential.

5. What products should I bring on my flight?

Consider bringing a gentle cleanser, a hydrating serum, a rich moisturizer, sunscreen, and a lip balm to keep your skin hydrated throughout your flight.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure that our skin remains healthy and hydrated, allowing us to feel our best during our travels. Safe travels!