By Melissa McCombs
You step off a long-haul flight and catch your reflection. Skin looks dull. It feels tight. Maybe a little flaky around the nose. It is not your imagination. Airplane cabins are some of the driest places you will ever spend hours in. Here is how to arrive looking and feeling more like yourself.
Why flying is so drying
The air inside a plane cabin is brought in from outside at altitude, where the air holds very little moisture. That means cabin humidity is usually far lower than what your skin is used to at home, especially if you live somewhere humid like Florida. Over a few hours, skin loses moisture and starts to feel tight.
Add recycled air, salty airplane food, coffee, a glass of wine, and very little sleep, and your skin has a hard day.
The secret: layer hydration
The trick is not one heavy cream. It is light layers of hydration, refreshed throughout the flight.
Before you fly
- Drink plenty of water the day before and the morning of your flight.
- Cleanse and apply a moisturizer at home.
- Skip heavy makeup. Let your skin breathe.
- Pack a 2 oz mist, a small moisturizer and lip balm in your personal item.
On the plane: hour by hour
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| After takeoff | Mist with Lavender, then a thin layer of moisturizer |
| Every 2 to 3 hours | Mist again to refresh; reapply lip balm |
| Midway | Cleanse, mist, and add a little more moisturizer if skin feels tight |
| Before landing | Mist with Rosemary or Tulsi Basil for a fresh arrival |
Throughout: drink a glass of water every hour or so, and go easy on alcohol and caffeine.
Why a mist works so well in the air
- It adds a quick layer of hydration without needing a sink.
- It helps moisturizer spread on damp skin.
- It is light and gentle enough to use many times.
- It is a calming ritual in a cramped seat.
After you land
- Cleanse your face as soon as you can.
- Mist generously.
- Press in a few drops of Rosehip & Calendula Serum.
- Get outside for some daylight and fresh air.
- Sleep well on your first night.
Window seat bonus tip
The sun's rays still reach you through airplane windows. If you are sitting by the window on a day flight, wear sunscreen or keep the shade down.
Fly with us: The Carry-On Reset Trio ($60) fits right in your liquids bag. Long trip ahead? Upgrade to the Headliner Box ($96).