POSTED: 12 Jul 2017

5 ESSENTIAL TRAVEL SKINCARE TIPS FOR LONG-HAUL FLIGHTS

Whether you’re flying first class or coach, the same drying air recirculates through the flight. This not only helps to spread some germs and pathogens but can leave skin dehydrated and congested. The pressurised environment and temperature regulation don’t help either. We’ve put together this post on travel skin care to help you protect your skin from this hostile environment so that you can at least land looking fabulous.

Firstly, a word to the wise. Some air lines will attempt to offer you a complimentary travel skin care packs. Don’t do it! There’s nothing complimentary about skin care frugality. Instead, follow these 5 travel skin care steps for all your travel skin care needs:

1) Cleansing and cleaning

Before you do anything, use wet wipes to clean the screen, seat handles and anything that someone else has touched. This may seem excessive but common bacteria, viruses and other pathogens that can cause stomach upsets or colds may still be transferred in this way. The wipes are also good for keeping your hands fresh. Try a moisturising and antimicrobial wet wipe such as the Clinelle hand wipes which can also be used to cleanse surfaces.

The most important travel skin care step is thoroughly cleaning and cleansing the skin. For the face and eyes, you must use a cleanser that can gently remove dirt and makeup. The Bioderma Hydrabio H2o Micellar Water (100ml) is suitable for all skin types and gently cleanse skin without stripping away its natural moisture.

2) Exfoliation

In the same way that a long-haul flight is a great way to catch up on work, life-admin and even films, I like to think that you can easily squeeze in some proper skin care time with little effort. A really good place to start is exfoliation after you’ve cleansed your skin. Try the glō therapeutics Pumpkin Enzyme Scrub (50ml) on your face, neck and hands. It removes dead skin cell build-up and stimulates cell regeneration to instantly leave your skin feeling softer, looking smoother and brighter. 

3) Masking

Again, use the time on a long-haul flight to treat your skin with a moisturising and nourishing mask. The best time to use the mask is whilst you’re sleeping although you can use it at any time. Apply the mask after you’ve cleansed and exfoliated your skin as this will allow the mask to penetrate further into the skin and work more effectively.

Try the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask (30ml) which provides hydration to provide softer and fresher looking skin. If you just want a dry sheet mask that you can use repeatedly thorough out the flight then give the Charlotte Tilbury Instant magic dry sheet mask. It comes with a single mask which is multi-use. Even slipping it on over your face for 10 minutes is enough for it to release the vitamins and peptides it contains which rehydrate and regenerate skin.

4) Rehydration

After masking and throughout the flight you should use a hydrating and active moisturiser and/or serum. The Medik8 C Tetra Cream (50ml) is a perfect all in one solution. It combines a moisturising base which is infused with Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Hyaluronic acid. This mix of Vitamins and antioxidants stimulates collagen, encourages cellular renewal corrects uneven pigmentation. As a result, the skin will feel softer and firmer whilst appear brighter and younger.

 5) Eye care

The delicate under eye area needs a gentler formulation. Whilst the micellar cleansing solution can be used to cleanse the eyes, avoid using the other products in this area. Instead, apply a dedicated product such as the NeoStrata Bionic Eye Cream (0.5 oz). This cream targets dark circles and reduces puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles.

So there you have it! A simple travel skin care regime that will not only keep your skin clean and rehydrated but also look even better than when you got on the plane. We recommend following steps 1-5 when you get on the flight and then repeat steps 1, 4 and 5 just before you land in order to look rested and refreshed. Don’t forget to apply SPF if you’re landing during the day. For more beauty and skin care tips check out the rest of our blog. Also, visit our bespoke treatments page for detailed information on the advanced clinical treatments we offer at City Skin Clinic.
If you’re heading to any music festivals, check out our guide to Glastonbury fabulous skin.

Authored by:

Dr Amel Ibrahim
Aesthetic Doctor & Medical Director
BSC (HONS) MBBS MRCS PHD
Founder City Skin Clinic
Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
Associate Member of British Association of Body Sculpting GMC Registered - 7049611

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