Airplane cabins may be synonymous with dry air and long hours, but your skin doesn't have to bear the brunt of it. Whether you’re heading out for a short hop or a long-haul flight, the key to maintaining radiant skin starts with preparation and the right in-flight essentials.

For flights under six hours, sunscreen tops the list. High altitudes mean increased UV exposure, as airplane windows block only about 50% of UVA rays. Lowering the window shade helps, but having a reliable sunscreen is non-negotiable. Pair this with a hydrating facial mist—but only one with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalene to lock in moisture. Basic essentials like a nourishing lip balm and body moisturizer are also must-haves to counteract the dryness of cabin air.

For longer journeys, your arsenal expands. Keep your skin hydrated with reapplications of sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturizer, but don’t overlook the importance of a deep cleanse before landing. If your skin feels particularly parched, indulge in a hydrating mask mid-flight, like the IDS Dermashield Mask, for intense moisturization and antioxidant benefits. For an added touch of glamour, apply minimal makeup just before landing—think tinted sunscreen and a hint of lip balm for a fresh, effortless look.

Pre-Flight Preparation

Prepping your skin at home before a flight makes all the difference. A solid pre-flight routine involves layering on hydration. Products like the IDS Recovery Serum and oil-free moisturizer work in tandem to protect the skin barrier and retain moisture. For daytime flights, sunscreen is essential, while red-eye travelers can save this step for onboard application. Skip heavy makeup and harsh products that could irritate your skin in the already stressful cabin environment.

During The Flight

In-flight skincare requires a balance of hydration and hygiene. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding dehydrating beverages, and using hand sanitizers and disinfecting wipes ensure you stay fresh. Items like facial masks, travel-sized skincare products, and a refillable water bottle streamline the process. For those sensitive to breakout-prone conditions caused by face coverings, a lightweight anti-bacterial mist like IDS Blemish Mist can keep ‘maskne’ at bay.

Post-Fight Routine

Landing doesn’t mean letting up on your skincare. Post-flight routines should focus on cleansing away grime, restoring brightness, and rehydrating your skin. A double cleanse with IDS Cleansing Milk and Refreshing Cleanser removes makeup and dirt without stripping moisture. Gentle exfoliation with a scrub containing fine Jojoba beads (try IDS Facial Scrub) clears away dead skin cells, revealing a radiant complexion. Complete the process with a hydrating mask and your usual moisturizer to seal in nourishment.

Makeup on a flight? It’s best to avoid it, as it can trap dirt and clog pores in the dry cabin air. For those who insist, minimalist makeup—like tinted sunscreen and lip balm—is a safer option. Heavy makeup may smudge during the flight and prevent regular reapplication of sunscreen and moisturizer. If a polished look is necessary for your arrival, cleanse thoroughly and apply makeup just before landing.

Airplane air may be notoriously drying, with humidity levels below 20% compared to the comfortable 40-60% on land. This arid environment dehydrates the skin, eyes, and lips, dulling the complexion. Combat these effects by drinking water frequently, moisturizing liberally, and focusing on lip care.

Ultimately, your travel skincare routine doesn’t need to be entirely different from your daily one, but it does require a few tweaks. Adding gentle exfoliation and a hydrating mask post-flight ensures your skin bounces back from the cabin’s harsh conditions, leaving you looking refreshed and ready to conquer your destination.

Flying doesn’t have to mean compromising on beauty. With the right products, routines, and a few thoughtful adjustments, you can land with skin that’s just as vibrant as when you took off.