The Best Post-Flight Skincare Routine You Should Know About

Flying is notoriously bad for your skin – cabin pressure, recycled air, and germs aren’t doing you any favors. Between the jetlag, the bacteria, the stress, and the ridiculously cold air conditioning, your skin takes a beating. Many of us experience increased dryness and breakouts after traveling. It’s important to include a post-flight skincare routine to replenish your skin, it could save your vacation photos. Don’t forget that sunblock is the most important step in your skincare routine!

Hydrate

If you learn anything from this post, learn this – hydrate. Airplanes have virtually zero humidity, with levels about 10% to 20% lower than what our skin is accustomed to. This can leave your skin feeling tight, and uncomfortable. Drink a lot of water before, during, and after your flight. Remember those cabin cocktails aren’t helping either. Your post-flight hydration is just as important as your pre-flight hydration, so try putting on a serum before boarding. Don’t be fooled if your face feels greasy upon landing. Our bodies can produce excess sebum to overcompensate for dehydrated skin. After your flight apply a moisturizing face mask and oil. If you’re totally shameless then pop a sheet mask or undereye gels on during your flight, anything that doesn’t have to be rinsed. Don’t worry I’m sure flight attendants have seen crazier.

Egg Cream Sheet Mask

Available at Target, Ulta, and Sephora

Drunk Elephant Marula Oil

Available at Sephora

Elf Hydrogel Under Eye Masks

Available at Target and Ulta online

Brighten

The altitude and cabin pressure can result in less blood flow, which will take the radiance out of your skin. You can combat by adding acid in your skincare routine – AHA and LHA are amazing, but a little too harsh on sensitive skin. Try glycolic acid or hyaluronic acid if your skin is slightly more reactive. You can also use cool globes, a jade roller, or your hands. It’s important to stimulate circulation and get your blood flowing after a flight. You can even book a massage at your hotel spa.

Pixie Glow Tonic

Available at Target and Urban Outfitters

Glow Recipe Watermelon + AHA Sleeping Mask

Available at Sephora

Ole Henricksen Banana Bright Eye Crème

Available at Sephora

Battle Breakouts

Traveling takes a toll on your skin, and if you’re naturally prone to breakouts then it can cause a flare-up. Most of us work to find the delicate balance between moisturizing our skin and combating clogged pores. It’s not a bad idea to cleanse your skin directly after a flight – either with witch hazel or some makeup remover. Planes and airports are full of germs and bacteria. Before heading to the luggage carousel take a second to swipe a makeup wipe across your face – you might be surprised what comes off. Also remember to keep your hands away from your face, especially after touching luggage bins and tray tables. There’s a reason why flight attendants have killer immune systems.

Alba Hawaiian Detox Mask

Available at Target, Ulta, and Whole Foods

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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Acne Treatment

Available at Ulta, Target, and Amazon

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

Available at Sephora, Amazon, and The Ordinary

Don’t Forget Your Lips

Your lips are just as susceptible to the dry cabin air and nobody needs cracked lips on vacation. Keeping them moisturized in flight is so important. Remember to use a lip balm with SPF if you’re traveling somewhere sunny!