10 travel-tested inflight skincare tips, according to experts

Lately, beauty influencers have turned airplane cabins into impromptu studios, showcasing elaborate inflight skincare routines. But how effective are these regimens in combating dryness, oiliness, or mid-air breakouts? “At 35,000 feet, low humidity and fluctuating cabin pressure can strip the skin of moisture, leaving it dehydrated, flaky, and irritated,” explains Dr Ujjvala Jadhav, a Mumbai-based dermatologist, cosmetologist, trichologist and laser specialist. This can lead to discomfort, especially for people with sensitive skin or existing skin conditions. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can keep your skin glowing at every altitude. From carry-on essentials to expert tips for tackling dry hands and the pitfalls of over-sanitising, here’s how to land with skin as fresh as your itinerary.

Don’t believe everything you see online

“Elaborate (inflight) skincare routines showcased on Instagram and TikTok often differ significantly from what I’ve seen in real life and this trend is largely driven by social media, which creates the perception that these routines are a common practice during air travel,” says Julita Więckowska, an aviation marketing expert and a former flight attendant. “In my experience, only a few young women follow such routines on specific routes, with Korean passengers often using sheet masks on long-haul flights.”

“I personally don’t see the need for excessive layering on flights,” says Tarini Sood, Beauty Editor at Vogue India. This trend, like many others, seems crafted for content creation, encouraging followers to buy products or mimic elaborate in-flight skincare routines. While addressing the skin’s exposure to dry cabin air is worthwhile, simplicity is key. “You don’t need much more than a lightweight moisturiser, sunscreen and under-eye patches,” she adds.

Stick to the basics

“Hydrating creams or oils that help restore moisture to your skin are the most effective. Lightweight, non-greasy serums are also a good option,” mentions Więckowska. “One of my tips is to use overnight masks as a base for my makeup instead of regular creams. These masks have a rich formula that keeps the skin more hydrated during the flight.”

Use a sheet mask, suggests Dr Jadhav. After removing it, it’s important to apply a good moisturiser to lock in the hydration. “A mist spray is preferable to thick creams, as it allows you to hydrate your skin without touching your face, reducing the risk of contamination,” she notes.

Choose products with the right ingredients

“Look out for humectant, a substance that attracts and retains moisture, making it essential for skin hydration,” says Dr Jadhav. Examples include hyaluronic acid, known for its powerful hydrating properties; ceramides, which help restore the skin barrier; and glycerin, which draws moisture from the air into the skin. Niacinamide, another effective humectant, soothes and calms the skin. Additionally, emollients like shea butter and cocoa butter complement humectants by hydrating and softening the skin. If you have oily skin, opt for a product containing salicylic acid to help control oil secretion. Consider carrying acne patches, a gentle cleanser, and a lightweight moisturiser.

Eliminate ingredients that irritate the skin

Dr Jadhav warns that heavy makeup, alcohol-based products, fragranced creams, comedogenic products, and frequent use of sanitisers can worsen skin concerns such as dullness and acne flare-ups. For those with pre-existing conditions like eczema, these issues can become even more severe. She also advises against using retinoids during flights, as they can exacerbate dryness in the already low-humidity environment. Additionally, heavy skincare products can clog pores, leading to further irritation and discomfort.

Apply sunscreen frequently

If you’re seated by the window on a daytime flight, apply sunscreen containing SPF 30+ or 50+ and reapply it every two to three hours, says Dr Jadhav. At higher altitudes, the air is drier, and UV rays are stronger, increasing the risk of skin damage.

Pay attention to greasy hair and dry hands and lips

Dry hands are a common issue during flights due to the low cabin humidity. “To prevent this, apply hand cream regularly, especially after using the bathroom or hand sanitiser” advises Więckowska. She also suggests keeping a small tube of moisturiser handy can make a significant difference. While sanitising is essential for hygiene, frequent use of hand sanitisers – particularly alcohol-based ones – can further dry out your skin. Opt for alcohol-free sanitisers or, when possible, wash your hands with soap and water. Always follow up with hand cream to lock in moisture. Additionally, dry lips are another frequent concern, so remember to apply a good lip balm throughout the flight.