In the past, you might have thought it awkward to apply a high-quality sheet mask or spend some time under the soothing lights of an LED mask while sitting in your airplane seat. However, now that beauty buffs have revolutionized cabin etiquette, it’s hard not to spot some people treating their flight time like a mini spa.
Air is notoriously dry on planes, so it’s vital to moisturize during the flight to avoid dry skin after landing. “Long-haul flights can cause dehydrated skin, making it more susceptible to irritation and dullness.
The low humidity of a flight can wick moisture away from the skin, causing it to dry out. Other factors that stress the skin during flights include UV exposure, recycled air and changes in cabin pressure,” explains Alia Ahmed, independent consultant dermatologist at Tolpa.
Time zone changes can also disrupt the skin barrier, adds Dr Jo Mennie, an aesthetic and women’s health physician at David Jack’s Clinic in London and founder of Louco. “Recent studies have shown that the skin’s circadian rhythms regulate functions such as cell regeneration and barrier protection.
Disruptions to these rhythms can impair skin repair mechanisms, leading to increased skin sensitivity and decreased hydration. Using skincare that supports the skin’s natural rhythms, such as products containing niacinamide or melatonin, may help mitigate these effects.”
Sunscreen is also crucial during flight. “UV radiation increases by about 2% for every 1,000 feet of altitude at cruising altitude,” says Mennie. “Airplane windows block most UVB rays, but UVA rays still penetrate, which can cause premature skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, it is recommended to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before and during flight, especially if you are sitting in a window seat.”
Also note that tap water on airplanes should not come into direct contact with the face as it has been found to contain harmful bacteria. Cleansing wipes or micellar water are recommended. Mennie also recommends that for best results, drink plenty of water before flying, eat a protein-rich snack, and avoid ultra-processed foods.
Voila, all it takes is baby-smooth skin and the confident look of someone who knows how to make the most of the time saved from globetrotting.
Hydra-Fill Mask
Not all sheet masks are created equal. The Hydra-Fill Mask from Meder Beauty, a brand founded by dermatologist Dr Tiina Meder, is a super-hydrating mask. Enriched with hyaluronic acid, gluconolactone and carrageenan, along with soothing ingredients like tranexamic acid and peptides, it helps plump, firm and hydrate the skin. It also contains seawater from the Pacific Ocean, which Meder says helps “lock moisture into the skin for a radiant, clear and virtually pore-free look”. A favourite of Carey Mulligan, this sustainably produced mask is not tested on animals and is hypoallergenic. It only takes 20 minutes to leave on, so you can watch your favourite sitcom while you do it.
Meder Beauty, £90
MZ Skin, Hydra Gold Mask
This mask is the brainchild of ophthalmic plastic surgeon and cosmetic physician Dr Maryam Zamani, who has over 20 years’ experience in London’s beauty scene. The mask is infused with tiny gold particles, which the brand claims help hydrate the skin. It’s also added with plumping hyaluronic acid and brightening vitamin C, as well as aloe vera leaf juice to further soothe dehydrated skin. The mask also has a golden sheen to make it look extra sophisticated – perfect for business and first class passengers.
Selfridges, £100
Dr Barbara Sturm Eye Patch
Developed by German dermatologist Dr Barbara Sturm, this eye patch is infused with soothing avocado polyphenols, which are claimed to help reduce the look of dark circles and eye bags, and is infused with triple hyaluronic acid for extra hydration. Perfect for those catching an early flight.
PCA Skin
For something a little more effective, try PCA Skin’s Microneedle Eye Patches. It features 1,254 tiny self-dissolving microneedles infused with hyaluronic acid. According to the brand, these help to release the hyaluronic acid and its anti-aging benefits more effectively, which can help improve dark circles and wrinkles.
Eye Mask, £95
Solawave Mini
This mini LED light is about the size of an Oreo cookie, but don’t be fooled. It combines red and near-infrared light and is said to help improve skin firmness and skin tone. It’s perfect for travel as it’s wireless, so you can use your other hand to hold a glass of prosecco or a chocolate chip cookie.
Health, £64
Ceramide Drops
Dr Sturm’s eye serum focuses on repairing the skin barrier, which is particularly vulnerable to the dry air of airplanes, especially for frequent travelers. The serum is a bright orange color, but it doesn’t look over the top. It really works to boost skin’s hydration and barrier strength, which can improve elasticity and radiance. It contains the brand’s ‘5-ceramide complex’, derived from natural oat lipids and oils including argan, sweet almond and evening primrose oils, as well as other beneficial ingredients including vitamin E and squalene.
drsturm.com, £125
Rich Cream
Augustinas Bader’s Rich Cream is the star product. It moisturises and plumps the skin using the brand’s patented TFC8 technology, which was developed by Professor Bader after three decades of stem cell research. The cream also comes in a handy travel size, making it easy to carry around, perfect for stuffing into a plastic bag at security.
Augustinus Bader, £77
Skin Pads
Developed by Dr David Jack, this ultra-rich moisturiser is deeply hydrating and designed for dry skin. It contains resveratrol for antioxidant benefits, peptides for hydration, ceramides to help strengthen the skin barrier and rocket leaf extract to brighten the complexion. It’s fragrance-free, vegan, and comes with a smudge-proof pump that dispenses just the right amount of cream every time, eliminating waste or splashing all over you or your neighbors.