Tips For Keeping Skin Fresh On An Airplane

Let’s face it, the thought of your travel destination is more exciting than actually flying there. In fact, it’s no wonder that many people dread flying. From awfully long security lines, gate and tarmac delays, and ever-changing weather, flying may take a tremendous toll on your skin. To keep your skin bright, fresh and ultimately free from breakouts, the board-certified dermatologists at Short Hills Dermatology have helpful tips to keep your skin looking and feeling fresh on an airplane.

Side Effects Airplane Travel Has On Skin

While soaring through the sky, being in-flight for hours can actually start to dry skin out, causing your sebaceous glands to produce an abundance of unnecessary oils. Furthermore, the drastic increase in cabin pressure, estimated at less than 20% humidity, deprives your skin of the moisture it needs to keep a healthy glow. Couple those two issues with impurities found in recycled airplane air, the likelihood of possible skin blemishes or issues increases.

More importantly, behaviors you aren’t even aware of can contribute to harsh skin conditions. Did you know staring at the monitor behind the seat can make your eyes dry, red, and itchy? That’s why you should consider packing eye drops in your carry-on bag, provided they are in a small bottle that meets TSA regulations. While snagging a window seat grants you a magnificent view, the high altitude and bird’s eye view can actually expose your skin to dangerous radiation. To combat harmful UV rays, apply SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin.

How To Prepare Your Skin Before You Fly

Dermatologists recommend incorporating serums into your skincare routine about a week before flying to help stop an overproduction of oil. Similarly, exfoliating effectively works to keep your skin moisturized. You can also try applying a face-mask a day or two before take off to eliminate toxins and imperfections as facemasks reach deep into your pores.

Stuck on deciding what to pack? It’s essential to pack a cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, lip balm, eye drops and blotting pads. Simply stow these items in a clear zip lock bag, and be sure it abides by airline standards of 100 mls. You may also want to pack a sleep mask if you plan on napping.

Caring For Your Skin During Your Flight

Even if your makeup looks flawless before your flight, once onboard your makeup may slowly begin melting away and leave your face feeling greasy. Dermatologists recommend wearing minimal makeup or applying a light tinted moisturizer on the face, waterproof mascara, and a moisturizing lip balm to keep the lips hydrated. Do your best to avoid foundations and powders, as these tend to dry out skin and produce more oil, resulting in blemishes.

Being cramped in a seat for long durations may result in muscle aches and pains, causing your body to retain fluid and swell up. Never underestimate the importance of staying well hydrated. Drinking an ample amount of water will also help your facial skin to balance oil production and maintain a clear and fresh complexion. Consider avoiding alcoholic beverages, sugary sodas, and coffee as caffeine and sugar bring about dehydration.

Post-Flight Skin Care Tips

Whether your flight lasts 3 hours or 12 hours, domestic or international, prepping your skin against the harsh impact of flying goes a long way. Once you descend to your final destination, be sure to wash your face with a gentle cleanser to rid air and dead skin cell impurities caught inside the cabin. Of course, these recommendations don’t just apply for flying, try adhering to these new skin care routines on a daily basis. Doing so will keep skin looking vibrant and healthy. Learn more about what products you should be using on your skin by contacting a dermatologist near you in New Jersey today.