If you’ve ever boarded a plane, you’ve probably noticed that the air inside the cabin can feel a little different. It’s dry, a bit stale, and even your skin might feel tight or uncomfortable by the time you land. You may have asked yourself, “Can flying actually harm my skin?” and you wouldn’t be alone in that thought. It turns out, the dry air at 40,000 feet can affect your skin more than you realize. But don’t worry—there are ways to counteract this dryness and keep your skin glowing, even when you’re soaring through the skies.
The Science Behind the Dryness
Before we jump into solutions, let’s take a quick look at why the air on a plane is so much different than the air you breathe on the ground. When you’re flying, you’re at high altitudes, often cruising at around 30,000 to 40,000 feet. At this altitude, the air pressure is much lower, which causes the air inside the cabin to be significantly drier than what you’re used to.
Airplane cabins are pressurized, but even with that, the humidity levels typically stay around 10-20%. For context, a normal indoor environment usually has a humidity level of 30-60%. That dry air is tough on your skin because it pulls moisture away, leaving it parched, dull, and sometimes irritated.
Another factor is that the air on planes is often recirculated, meaning it doesn’t get a fresh flow of humidity from the outside. So, the air tends to get even drier as the flight continues, and your skin is left to fend for itself.
How Does Dry Air Affect Your Skin?
At 40,000 feet, your skin is subjected to a variety of conditions that can lead to dryness, tightness, and discomfort. Here’s a breakdown of how dry air affects your skin:
- Loss of Moisture: Dry air strips away moisture from the surface of your skin. This causes your skin to lose its natural hydration, leaving it feeling dry, flaky, and rough.
- Reduced Oxygen Flow: The lower oxygen levels in the cabin can also impact skin health. Oxygen is essential for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and promoting a healthy, youthful appearance. When you’re flying, your skin may look a little more tired or dull than usual due to this lack of oxygen.
- Increased Sensitivity: The combination of dry air and lower oxygen can make your skin more sensitive. It may become irritated, inflamed, or red, especially if you have conditions like rosacea or eczema.
- Tightness and Discomfort: Dry air can lead to a feeling of tightness on your skin, especially on your face. This can be exacerbated by the constant exposure to low humidity levels, causing discomfort throughout the flight.
The Age Factor: Why Your Skin Needs Extra Care at 40,000ft
As we age, our skin naturally loses some of its moisture-retaining abilities. By the time we hit our 30s and 40s, the skin’s production of natural oils decreases, and the moisture barrier becomes less effective. This means that people over 40 may experience skin dehydration more intensely when flying compared to younger individuals. The lack of hydration, combined with the effects of aging, can make your skin look duller, more prone to fine lines, and more susceptible to irritation.
So, if you’re in your 40s (or beyond), taking extra precautions when flying is crucial. The good news is, with the right strategies, you can keep your skin happy and healthy, even at 40,000 feet.
How to Combat Skin Dryness While Flying
Luckily, there are plenty of ways to fight back against the dryness and discomfort caused by flying. Here’s a list of tried-and-tested tips to keep your skin hydrated and glowing, no matter how high you’re flying.
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
One of the best ways to fight skin dryness on a plane is by staying hydrated from the inside out. Airplanes may dry out your skin, but drinking water regularly can help replenish the moisture you’re losing. Aim to drink at least 8 oz of water for every hour of flight, and avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
Hydration isn’t just for your internal system—it’s essential for your skin, too. The more water you drink, the better your skin will retain its moisture and elasticity.
2. Moisturize Before, During, and After the Flight
Moisturizing is key to locking in hydration and preventing dryness. Before your flight, make sure to apply a thick, rich moisturizer to your face and any other exposed skin. Look for products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides, which help to draw moisture into the skin and maintain hydration. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel are both great options.
During your flight, consider reapplying moisturizer every couple of hours, especially if your skin starts to feel tight or dry. Many airlines offer small toiletry kits, but it’s a good idea to bring your own moisturizer onboard in a travel-sized container. Avoid heavily fragranced lotions or creams, as they can sometimes irritate the skin, especially if it’s already sensitive from the dry air.
If you want to go the extra mile, consider a hydrating face mask. Some masks are designed for one-time use and are perfect for giving your skin a boost mid-flight. You can leave them on for the duration of the flight or remove them after 15-20 minutes. A good option is Dr. Jart+ Dermask Water Jet Vital Hydra Solution.
3. Use a Hydrating Face Mist
A face mist is an absolute game-changer when it comes to counteracting skin dryness in-flight. A good face mist can help to refresh and hydrate your skin without disrupting your makeup (if you’re wearing any). The cool spritz will immediately boost your skin’s moisture levels and leave you feeling rejuvenated. Look for mists that are packed with hydrating ingredients like rose water, aloe vera, or vitamin C. Evian Facial Spray is a solid choice.
Keep a small bottle in your bag, and use it whenever you feel your skin getting dry during the flight. Just be sure to pat your face gently with a tissue afterward to avoid any damp spots.
4. Apply a Rich Lip Balm
Dry lips are a common side effect of flying, and they can be uncomfortable, especially if they start to crack or peel. To keep your lips soft and hydrated, apply a thick lip balm or lip mask before the flight, and reapply it throughout the journey. Choose a lip balm with nourishing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or vitamin E to create a protective barrier against the dry air. Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm is a great option.
5. Use a Humidifier
If you’re a frequent flyer or a long-haul traveler, a portable humidifier might be a good investment. Some travel-sized humidifiers are designed specifically for use in the cabin. These devices release moisture into the air, helping to counteract the dry atmosphere. While this may not be a realistic solution for every flight, it can be a lifesaver on long-haul journeys. Pure Enrichment PureMist Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is one such option.
6. Consider a Hydrating Serum
If you’re looking for an extra boost, try applying a hydrating serum before your moisturizer. Serums are typically more concentrated than moisturizers and contain a higher percentage of active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides. These ingredients penetrate deep into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration and plumping up your skin from within. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a great product for this.
7. Wear Sunscreen
The sun’s rays can reach you even at 40,000 feet, so it’s important to wear sunscreen on your face and any exposed skin. While the UV rays are less intense in the air, the higher altitude can increase exposure. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging. Look for one that’s lightweight and won’t feel heavy or greasy under your makeup. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55 is a good pick.
8. Don’t Forget Your Eyes
The skin around your eyes is particularly sensitive, so it can be one of the first areas to show signs of dryness. To prevent your eyes from feeling dry or irritated, use an eye cream with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or caffeine. If you wear contact lenses, remember to bring rewetting drops or switch to glasses for the duration of the flight to avoid eye dryness and discomfort. Olay Eyes Depuffing Eye Roller works wonders for this.
9. Keep Makeup Light and Breathable
Heavy makeup can contribute to dryness and irritation, especially when flying. To prevent clogged pores and further dehydration, consider going makeup-free or opting for light, breathable makeup. If you do wear makeup, use a hydrating foundation or tinted moisturizer that provides both coverage and hydration. Tarte Cosmetics Water Foundation is a good hydrating option.
10. Apply a Hydrating Body Lotion
Dry skin isn’t just a problem for your face. The air in the cabin can also leave the rest of your body feeling dry and tight. Be sure to apply a rich, hydrating body lotion before and after your flight to lock in moisture and prevent dry patches. Nivea Essentially Enriched Body Lotion is a great choice for this.
Final Thoughts
Flying at high altitudes can take a toll on your skin, but with a little extra care, you can keep your skin hydrated, refreshed, and looking its best. Whether you’re flying for work or leisure, staying hydrated, moisturizing, and using the right skincare products like CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, or Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm, will help you combat the dryness and discomfort that comes with air travel. So, the next time you take to the skies, don’t forget to pamper your skin—it’ll thank you when you land.
