How do I keep my skin hydrated on a plane?

Why does my skin get dry on a plane?

Airplanes can make your skin drier. The general principle is that dry air causes skin to lose water. Your skin barrier, the outermost layer of skin, helps keep moisture in, and moisturizer supports that barrier. Tightness, flaking and itching are signs of dryness, not a reason to scrub harder. Exfoliating can strip away moisture and oils and leave skin feeling drier.123

Should I moisturize before a flight?

1. 1Before leaving, wash gently with your usual cleanser. If you shower, use lukewarm water and keep the shower to five to 10 minutes.
2. 2Pat your skin dry without removing all the water, then apply moisturizer within three minutes. Applying moisturizer to damp skin helps trap that moisture.
3. 3Pack your familiar moisturizer and cleanser in travel size containers. Keep moisturizer available during the flight so you can reapply whenever your skin feels dry.
4. 4After landing, continue moisturizing after bathing and whenever you feel dry. Keep the routine familiar rather than switching to fragranced hotel toiletries.

Your usual moisturizer can make the trip without being promoted to an aviation product. Bringing your own products is especially useful for sensitive skin because unfamiliar ingredients and fragranced hotel products can trigger irritation or an allergic reaction.1

Which moisturizer should I pack?

Choose a fragrance free moisturizer you already use comfortably. A lotion or gel is generally suitable for the face unless your skin is very dry. For dry body skin, choose a cream. If you have atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema that causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin, use a mild, fragrance free cream or ointment and follow your existing treatment plan.34

Look for ingredients that both hydrate and hold moisture in. Hyaluronic acid attracts water, while petrolatum and dimethicone help prevent moisture loss. Ceramides help lock in moisture, and emollients soften and smooth dry skin.3

Should I use a face mist on a plane?

Make moisturizer the priority rather than replacing it with a mist. As general dry skin care, apply moisturizer while skin is damp to help seal in moisture. Whether a particular face mist adds a useful benefit during a flight is unsettled here; there is no need to add one to follow this routine.2

Can I wear a face mask on a plane?

A protective mask and a skincare sheet mask are different: the practical advice here covers protective masks, not hydration benefits from sheet masks. Before wearing a protective mask, use a mild cleanser, a noncomedogenic moisturizer designed not to clog pores, and lip balm. Avoid greasy creams underneath. Friction, pressure, warmth and humidity beneath a mask can cause irritation, so choose a properly fitted mask made from material that does not irritate your skin. Moisturize again after removing it.5

What else matters during the flight?

Sun protection still matters through airplane windows. Lower the window shade and apply broad spectrum, water resistant SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to uncovered skin. Reapply every two hours during sun exposure.1

If moisturizer and gentler washing do not improve your dry skin, see a healthcare professional. A new rash during or after travel also deserves a dermatologist's attention; mention where you traveled, how long you stayed and whether anyone traveling with you has similar symptoms.13