A thoughtful in-flight skincare routine is the ultimate carry-on essential.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or heading off on a long-awaited getaway, you’ve likely seen the 'plane skincare' trend taking over your feed.
Cabin air is notorious for leaving skin visibly dry and dull, but you don’t have to land looking tired. In this guide, we’ll show you how to maintain a fresh, dewy glow from takeoff to touchdown.
Why Do You Need In-Flight Skincare?
Flying can have several noticeable effects on your complexion. For example, low humidity in airplane cabins can rapidly reduce stratum corneum hydration, causing dryness and irritation.
A study has also linked flying with sun exposure, discovering that pilots flying for 56.6 minutes at 30,000 feet receive the same amount of UV-A carcinogenic effective radiation as a 20-minute tanning bed session. So, if you’ve secured a window seat, you may be feeling the effects of this.
An in-air routine filled with enriching products and SPF could be the key to keeping skin supple and protected during your travels.
The Best In-Flight Skincare Routine
To keep your skin looking its best, we recommend starting your flight skincare routine before you even reach the gate.
On long-haul flights, it’s often best to go light on makeup or skip it entirely, to avoid struggling with a full cleanse in a tiny airplane bathroom or multistep makeup removal with wipes and pads. Once you board, here’s your checklist for the ultimate plane skincare ritual:
Cleanse
While cleansing is the key to feeling fresh-faced, the microbial quality of plane water varies, which could affect your skin barrier.
To avoid this, we recommend skipping the traditional rinse-off wash and using a travel-sized micellar water or gentle wipes instead.
A few swipes are all you need to lift away the day and leave your surface visibly clean and revitalized.
Use a Face Mask
Applying a mask is the cornerstone of any flight skincare ritual, especially if you’re looking to relax on a long-haul journey.
Can you bring face masks on a plane? Absolutely – sheet masks and under-eye patches are perfect for travel.
Formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin work to attract and retain moisture, providing support against the drying cabin air.
Lock in Moisture with a Serum and Moisturizer
To support your skin barrier while you’re in the air, we recommend applying a serum and a slightly thicker cream before and throughout your flight to help maintain moisture.
Opt for formulas with humectants such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol, alongside ingredients like ceramides and squalane to help soften and plump the surface.
Our Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Serum is a great option, as it encourages a supple, youthful glow in an airplane-friendly size.
Spritz a Face Mist
A face mist is a true travel essential – not only does it feel refreshing, but a quick spritz helps to maintain moisture.
Misting one like our Hyaluronic Acid HydraMist across your face is a simple way to help relieve that tight, cabin-dry feeling. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, green tea, chamomile, and aloe, this 4-in-1 blend works as a rejuvenating spray, gentle toner, and makeup finisher.
Apply SPF
As always, sunscreen remains a daily necessity. Airplane windows are not effective against all types of UV radiation, and because you’re closer to the sun, the effects may be amplified.
Applying SPF helps to support your skin against these rays while you enjoy the view. Plus, our Hydrating Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 not only protects against UVA/UVB but also blue light emitted from electronic devices.
Don't Forget the Lips and Eyes
The delicate skin on your lips and eyes could be the first to feel the effects of low humidity.
We recommend using a conditioning lip balm or targeted lip kit throughout your journey to keep them feeling soft and smooth.
For the appearance of puffy eyes, an eye gel or cream may help. These formulas work to visibly refresh, awaken, and enhance radiance.
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Incorporate Beauty Tools
Since you’re already sitting and embracing a slow moment, why not use a face roller or gua sha to perform a gentle facial massage?
It’s a calming way to encourage a visibly rejuvenated, de-puffed look – just make sure your tools are airplane-friendly, so they don’t hold you up in the security queue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Bring Skincare on a Plane?
Yes, you can bring skincare on a plane, provided you follow the liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage. Generally, liquids should be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less, but we recommend checking your specific airline’s website for the most accurate information.
We recommend investing in minis that fit perfectly in your clear toiletry bag, like our travel-size skincare sets.
Can I Bring Face Wash on a Plane?
Yes, you can bring face wash on a plane. In carry-on luggage, it should be less than 3.4 ounces (100ml) and fit into one clear, quarter-sized bag.
However, we recommend checking your specific airline’s guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
What Size Skincare Can I Bring on a Plane?
Most airlines require liquids, gels, and aerosols to be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less. All your minis must typically fit into a single, quart-sized, clear plastic bag.
Be sure to check your specific airline’s requirements before you pack.
More than just a viral aesthetic, an in-flight skincare routine is the secret to stepping off the plane with a dewy glow.
No matter the distance, these mindful steps could provide the calm and comfort your skin needs in a drying environment.
Browse our travel-size skincare, designed to go wherever you do.
