With temperatures dropping rapidly and the weather forecast showing rain, we’ve started dreaming about escaping the New Zealand winter for the European summer. But while the prospect of some sun is sure to put a spring in your step, the long haul flying that comes with a far-flung adventure requires a little preparation to have skin looking its best before, during and after the flight.
It’s well known that the plane environment can wreak havoc on skin, leaving it feeling dry and depleted, and the unlucky few may experience a breakout or two as well.
We spoke to Lucy Kuper, dermal specialist and managing director of Biologi on how to get through a long journey without it taking a toll on your complexion.
Hydrate from the inside out
“Research shows that the average body is stripped of up to 1.5 litres of water during a three-hour flight, so this gives you an indication of just how dehydrated your body and skin can become,” Kuper says.
What you put into your body beforehand is just as important as what skincare you apply, so arrive at the airport feeling hydrated inside and out, first by drinking lots of water – and continue this throughout your flight. “Yes it can be annoying having to take bathroom breaks regularly, but your body will thank you for it later,” she says.
As well as keeping your water intake up, you should try and eat healthy before your flight. “Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables in the lead up as this will give your body, and skin, the vitamin C it needs.”
Pack a supercharged serum
The plane environment affects the skin in ways people don’t realise, Kuper says, which is why it’s smart to pack a concentrated serum that will restore hydration and glow. “Cabin pressure is lower on a plane because of the elevation and this means your blood isn’t able to carry as much oxygen, which makes skin appear dull.”
Humidity levels can also have an impact, with plane cabins dropping to under 20 per cent, sometimes as low as 4 per cent, when our skin is used to around 40 per cent. “The lack of humidity drops the moisture levels which results in dry and dehydrated skin,” says Kuper.
A hydrating serum, such as Biologi’s Bd Luminosity Face Serum will help refresh, moisturise and illuminate skin during the flight. For plane travel, the 5mL size will save space and is perfect for carry-on luggage. This highly concentrated serum is packed with vitamins and antioxidants that leave your complexion glowing, and is also available in the Save My Skin Bundle Travel Minis 3 Pack.
Mist for moisture
Pop a refreshing mist spray in your in-flight beauty bag to maintain hydration and refresh whenever you feel like it. Try: LABONICS RADIANCE Mist Toner; Trilogy Hydrating Mist Toner; Bees Brilliance Beauty Elixir Mist
Get masking
For extra hydration mid-flight or before landing, pack a sheet mask. Or if you don’t want to get weird looks, eye masks are a more discreet way to relax and de-puff. Try: The Body Shop Drops of Youth™ Youth Concentrate Sheet Mask; Syrene Skincare Power Masque With Aquagel Advanced Hydration; Skin Republic Brightening Eye Mask
Don’t forget sunscreen
It’s a good idea to bring sunscreen on board with you, because aeroplane windshields don’t completely block UVA radiation. You’re at a higher risk of sun exposure up in the air than on the ground, says Kuper.
If that’s not enough to convince you, a 2014 study by the University of California found that 56 minutes in the cockpit of a plane was equal to the same amount of radiation as 20 minutes on a tanning bed.
Opt for a non-comedogenic formula so the sunscreen won’t clog pores. Try: La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Ultra Light SPF50
