I've taken four long-haul flights in a month, here's what I used on my face
After two years of COVID-19 lockdowns followed by one year where only some of us tentatively headed overseas, 2023 feels like the year of the Euro summer. We've forgotten about a lot of travel experiences – how hard it is to squash down a suitcase, the 10,000 steps per day you don't even notice as you wander foreign cities, through to the deep sense of relaxation that a mimosa by the pool watching a tropical sunset can bring. Oh, and how long-haul flights require a full skincare routine.
Recently, I flew on four long-haul flights. It was for work, and I'm very grateful that travelling is part of my job – I love to travel, and I'm aware that flying overseas twice in one month is the stuff dreams are made of. But wow, did I forget how taxing all that aeroplane air is on my face.
For my first trip, I wasn't prepared at all. I knew to pack a moisturiser and some tissues, but I'd forgotten how drying the air is on board. The result? A severe case of dermatitis and weeks of skin recovery with the most basic of products, as I tried to rebuild my skin barrier and banish dry patches. I'm not even out of the woods yet!
But this faux pas saw me learn quick-smart that I needed to take better care of my skin when flying. Now, I have the perfect long-haul flight skincare routine for keeping moisturised, hydrated and protected so I land with even better skin than when I hopped on the plane. Seriously!
These are my favourite long-haul flight skincare products.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
1. Use a mask, not a moisturiser
Aeroplane air is so, so drying – even oily and combination skin types can benefit from using a hydrating mask instead of a moisturiser. These will act as an emollient (maintaining skin moisture) meaning you don't have to apply as often and you're far more likely to exit the plane without dry, tight skin.
These cream or gel formula masks won't be noticeable on your skin, so you won't scare your seat neighbours.
For dry skin: Dermalogica Melting Moisture Masque
I used to swear by Dermalogica's Hydrating Masque and this is the reformulated version. It's still just as deeply nourishing, with a honey-like feel and plenty of vitamins and linoleic acid for maximum nourishment.
For oily skin: L'Occitane Aqua Reotier Hydration Mask
The lightweight, gel consistency of this face mask makes it a great buy for those with oily skin who find heavier formulas too intensive. The non-comedogenic formula uses mineral-rich waters and hyaluronic acid to intensively hydrate and increase radiance – both ideal for combatting post-flight dull skin.
For combination skin: Clarins SOS Hydra
A gel-cream hybrid, this ultra-hydrating face mask sits well on combination skin, feeling neither too heavy nor too light. It also works in ten minutes, so it's great for reapplying after your mid-flight sleep to counteract tight, dry skin.
READ MORE: Seven of the best cleansers for oily skin types
2. Team it with hyaluronic acid
I have to admit, hyaluronic acid serums aren't usually part of my skincare routine. While they're known for hydrating skin in record time, my morning and evening serums tend to give me enough day-to-day. When flying, however, I've found these serums to be incredibly useful. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture in, plumping and nourishing skin in even the driest of conditions.
For dry skin: Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum, 7mL
A travel-sized version of my favourite serum in history? I'll add that to cart! This serum is perfect for flying – packed with hyaluronic acid, peptides and other skin-boosting ingredients, it's gentle on sensitive skin while also delivering major results.
For oily skin: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, 30mL
My favourite affordable hyaluronic acid serum is this one from The Ordinary – why? It's effective without the wallet-haemorrhaging price point you normally find in active serums. It's also great for everyone, including those prone to oiliness, thanks to a lightweight formula and minimal extra ingredients.
For combination skin: CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
The cream-gel formula is light enough for those with an oily t-zone, but nourishing where you need it to be. Plus, it's at a great price point and contains three essential ceramides and vitamin B5 for extra care.
READ MORE: The $65 K-beauty skin serum I swear by when I travel
3. Use an extra shield when sleeping
The moment my skin feels its worst is when I wake from a sleep on the plane. Don't ask why, I don't know the exact science of it – perhaps it's just the longest period I go without reapplication of skincare. For that reason, I add a layer of face oil or a balm as a humectant (barrier to protect from moisture loss).
For dry skin: Egyptian Magic All Purpose Skin Cream
This will not be right for everyone given it's pretty heavy on skin – think a combination of oils, beeswax and bee pollen – but for those with dryness or sensitivity, it's a long-haul flight godsend. I apply a thin layer over my whole face, but you can also use it exclusively on dry patches as an added layer of protection.
For oily skin: The Jojoba Company Jojoba And Rosehip Oil
Jojoba oil is suitable for all skin types because it closely resembles the skin's natural oils, and this combination with healing, vitamin-rich rosehip oil is great for adding to your skin on long-haul flights.
For combination skin: KORA Organics Noni Glow Face Oil
Another great travel-sized product, this KORA Organics face oil is one of the brand's most enduringly popular products. With antioxidants and essential fatty acids, it moisturises, smooths and brightens skin for all types, including combination.
READ MORE: Everything to know about cult skincare brand loved by the stars
4. Buy a seriously nourishing lip balm
Don't forget your lips – unless you want them chapped for the first week of your holidays! In the air, you'll want something heavier than the usual stick balm you throw in your handbag.
For healing: Dermal Therapy Lip Balm
The ultimate lip balm for healing and restoring dry, cracked lips, this product is also great at preventing them in the first place. One to buy if you're already dealing with chapped lips before getting on board.
For nourishing: Laniege Lip Sleeping Mask
It may be on the pricey side but a little goes a long way with this sticky, comfortable lip mask. It's too heavy for day use, but will not budge as you sleep, protecting lips from drying out. There are also multiple delicious flavours to choose from, including berry and gummy bear.
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