Flying can wreak havoc on your skin—but with a few expert-approved tips, you can land looking refreshed, not wrecked.
There’s nothing quite like the moment you step off a plane and feel the breeze of your long-awaited destination kiss your face. But just as you’re about to reach peak vacation glow, you catch your reflection—and reality sets in: puffy eyes, dry patches, and a general dullness that no Instagram filter can fix.
Welcome to flight face, the all-too-real result of recycled air, low humidity, and high-altitude exposure. Fortunately, with a few dermatologist-approved tricks and a little prep, you can keep your skin looking as fresh as your travel itinerary.
Airplane cabins have notoriously low humidity—often below 20%—which pulls moisture from your skin, leading to dehydration, irritation, and that tight, uncomfortable feeling. Add to that the increased UV exposure at high altitude and the salty, processed food options inflight, and you’ve got a perfect storm for post-flight puffiness and breakouts.
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The preflight routine
“For my skincare, 10 to 15 minutes before boarding, I wash my face, apply a hydrating serum, and seal it in with a good moisturizer,” shares Dr. Bea Chan-Benavidez, board-certified dermatologist and founder of The Skin B Clinic. “I also use a hydrating lip balm to prevent chapped lips. It’s a small routine that makes a big difference.”
Travel doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your skin. With the right skincare strategy and a little intention, you can land glowing—ready for vacation selfies without the need for a smoothing filter.
So next time you pack, think beyond outfits and itineraries. Your skin deserves a seat in the priority lane, too. Here are six tips to protect your skin.
1. Hydrate from the inside out
Start increasing your water intake several days before your trip. Staying hydrated on the plane is essential—so keep that refillable water bottle handy and sip consistently throughout the flight.
2. Move before you fly
“I do 30 minutes of cardio preflight to sweat out toxins and reduce bloating,” says Dr. Bea. “I also steer clear of salty foods and MSG, which contribute to water retention.” Even light movement before a long-haul flight can help your circulation and reduce inflammation.
3. Don’t skip the sunscreen
You may be inside a plane, but UV rays don’t take a vacation—especially at high altitudes. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 before your flight and reapply during longer trips, especially if you’re seated by the window.
4. Support lymphatic drainage
Reduce puffiness and fluid retention by staying active mid-flight. “Wear compression socks and do gentle massages on your legs, face, and neck to promote circulation,” suggests Dr. Bea.
5. Moisturize, always
Layer on a nourishing moisturizer after cleansing, and consider using a facial mist or hydrating mask to replenish lost moisture. Bonus: It also helps calm travel-induced redness or irritation.
6. Cleanse, cleanse, cleanse
Post-flight, your first priority should be to cleanse your skin. Airplane air can leave skin congested, so a thorough double cleanse—starting with a creamy balm or oil, followed by a gentle face wash—can help prevent breakouts and restore balance.
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