This summer, you’ve probably thought about how flying affects your skin, especially if you suffer from acne or irritation.
And while there are endless hacks online that promise to prevent this from happening, it can be hard to know which tips are too good to be true, and which can actually help. There are currently over 160 million posts under “airplane skin care” on Tiktok (the hypochlorous acid spray trend may ring a bell).
To help you make an informed decision on how to best care for your skin while flying (that you won’t regret), we consulted Dr Sophie Momen, dermatologist at the Cadogan Clinic, and skin and beauty expert Dr Hanson, founder of the Dr Hanson Clinic.
What happens to your skin when you fly?
First, Dr. Momen says that flying can really take a toll on your skin, especially if you’re acne-prone or have sensitive skin.
“The environment in an airplane cabin is different than what your skin is used to on the ground. The air in the cabin is extremely dry, with humidity often dropping to 10-20%, which can dehydrate your skin, causing it to lose moisture quickly,” she explains.
“Dehydrated skin can become tight, dull, and flaky. For those with acne-prone skin, dehydration can cause an overproduction of oil as your skin tries to compensate for the lack of moisture. This excess oil can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Additionally, the stress of travel, changes in routine, and exposure to different environments can exacerbate skin issues.”
Dr. Hanson says that at high altitudes, the atmosphere is thinner and offers less protection from UV rays than when you’re on the ground. “UV rays accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to wrinkles and fine lines, and can also trigger the production of melanin, which can lead to hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.”
He also points out that the air in the cabin is recirculated, which means that your skin’s natural barrier can be disrupted and become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Additionally, the pressure in the cabin can affect your lymphatic system (responsible for draining fluids from your body), which can lead to swelling.
The Truth About ‘Airplane Skin Care’
“The internet is full of in-flight skincare tips, but not all of them are effective or safe. The vast majority of influencers do not have medical training, and much of the advice, routines, and products are not appropriate,” says Dr. Momen.
“Skin care while flying should be simple. The most important thing is to keep your skin hydrated, avoid irritants and be careful of trendy gimmicks that can do more harm than good.”
Here’s what experts think about common hacks.
“This spray is being touted on platforms like TikTok for its antibacterial properties, which can help with acne. Hypochlorous acid is indeed effective at killing bacteria and reducing inflammation, and it’s generally safe for most skin types,” Dr. Momen explains.
“However, it should not replace your usual skincare routine. Overuse can disrupt the skin’s natural microbiome, which can lead to irritation, sensitivity or dryness.”
Dr. Momen says, “While sheet masks are popular for providing an extra boost of hydration, they can be tricky to use on a plane and can even be counterproductive. The dry air can cause the mask to dry out quickly, which can strip moisture from your skin.
“If you decide to use a sheet mask, choose one that is deeply hydrating and follow up with a moisturizer immediately to lock in the hydration.”
This depends on the type you use.
“Gel-based eye masks can be soothing and help reduce puffiness around the eyes. However, full-face masks (the kind you leave on overnight) are better suited for home use because they require a clean environment and ample time to work effectively,” Dr. Momen points out.
“While this can help with puffiness and promote lymphatic drainage, constantly touching your face in a dirty airplane environment can do more harm than good,” says Dr. Hanson.
Dr. Momen recommends avoiding DIY tricks like applying thick layers of Vaseline or coconut oil during flights. “These can clog pores and worsen acne. Stick to skin care products that are right for your skin type.”
How to Care for Your Skin While Flying
So, trends aside, here are the simple steps you should definitely follow should to take.
1. Hydrate
Dr. Momen believes the most important step in protecting your skin while flying is to keep it hydrated. “Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight to maintain hydration from within. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and salty snacks, as these can further dehydrate your body and skin.”
You can also opt for a hydrating mist or spray. “This can be a great way to refresh your skin during the flight. Opt for mists that are alcohol-free and contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera or rose water. Avoid over-mist, as this can cause the water to evaporate quickly, leading to further dehydration.”
2. Prepare your skin for the flight
Dr. Momen advises, “Cleanse your skin with a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove impurities and follow up with a light, hydrating moisturizer. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, which helps keep your skin plump and hydrated.”
3. Wear sunscreen
Dr. Momen expands on Dr. Hanson’s earlier advice, adding: “UVA is about 2.5 times more intense and airplane windows only block about 50% of UVA radiation, so it is essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high UVA protection to prevent premature aging and reduce the risk of skin cancer.”
4. Hydrate throughout the flight
“Reapply moisturizer during long flights, especially if your skin feels dry. For acne-prone skin, choose noncomedogenic products that won’t clog pores,” Dr. Momen advises.
And Dr. Hanson adds: “Don’t forget your lips; keep them moisturized with a nourishing lip balm.”
5. Consider a barrier cream
“A barrier cream or occlusive product can help seal in moisture and protect your skin from the dry cabin air,” says Dr. Momen. “Ingredients like squalene or shea butter are great options to provide a protective layer without feeling too heavy.”
6. Don’t wear makeup if you can
“Makeup can trap dirt and oil on your skin, which combined with the dry cabin air can clog pores and cause breakouts, as well as aggravate other inflammatory skin conditions,” says Dr. Momen.
“If you prefer to wear makeup, choose lightweight, noncomedogenic products and avoid heavy foundations or powders. Tinted moisturizers or BB creams can be a good compromise.”