Airplane Travel Beauty Tips: Staying Fresh at 30,000 Feet

Traveling by plane always means you are going somewhere far far away, hopefully somewhere exotic, but it also comes with its own set of challenges—particularly when it comes to maintaining your beauty routine.

The dry, recirculated air in airplane cabins can take a toll on your skin, hair, and overall appearance. However, with a few smart beauty hacks we've picked up along the way, we've learned how to arrive at our destinations looking and feeling fabulous. Here’s how to keep up with your beauty rituals while flying high.

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

The Dry Cabin Air

The air inside an airplane cabin is notoriously dry, with humidity levels often dropping below 20%. This lack of moisture can leave your skin feeling parched and looking dull. The key to counteracting this is to stay hydrated, both from the inside out and with topical products.

Drink Water

Start hydrating well before your flight. Aim to drink at least 8-10 ounces of water for every hour you’re flying. Bringing a reusable water bottle and refilling it during the flight is a great way to ensure you’re consistently sipping throughout the journey.

Get tips on how to hydrate while flying by reading how to stay hydrated while traveling.

Moisturize Frequently

Apply a hydrating moisturizer to your face and hands before and during the flight. Look for products with humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help attract and retain moisture in the skin. For an added boost, consider a facial mist or thermal water spray to refresh your skin periodically.

2. Travel Beauty Products in Your Carry-On

Stick to the Rules

When bringing beauty products on board, adhere to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule: liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, all fitting in a single quart-sized bag. See our post on Beauty Travel Essentials to help you find all of the best travel-size beauty products. Here is a quick rundown on some airplane beauty essentials you can pack:

• Moisturizers: Opt for travel-sized containers or solid moisturizers.

  
  

• Face Masks: Sheet masks are convenient and mess-free, making them a great option for in-flight hydration.

  
  

• Lip Balm: A must-have to prevent chapped lips.

  
  

• Hand Cream: Keep a small tube handy to combat dryness from frequent hand washing.

  
  

Multi-Use Products

Consider packing multi-use products that serve several functions, such as a tinted moisturizer with SPF or a lip and cheek tint. These can save space in your carry-on and streamline your beauty routine.

3. Skin Care on the Go

Before Boarding

Before your flight, apply a rich moisturizer or face oil to create a protective barrier against the dry air. Avoid heavy makeup or use a minimal, lightweight foundation to allow your skin to breathe and stay hydrated.

During the Flight

For longer flights, you might want to refresh your look. Use a facial mist to keep your skin feeling fresh. If you’re applying makeup, consider a setting spray to help your products stay in place despite the dry environment.

Post-Flight Routine

Upon arrival, cleanse your face to remove any residual makeup and pollutants. Follow up with a nourishing face mask or hydrating serum to replenish lost moisture. A good facial routine after the flight can help rejuvenate your skin and combat any dryness.

4. Hair Care Tips

Keep It Moisturized

The dry air can also affect your hair, making it look and feel dry. To combat this, apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil before the flight. This helps lock in moisture and keeps your hair looking shiny and healthy.

Avoid Over-Styling

During the flight, keep your hair loose or in a simple style to prevent unnecessary stress on your strands. If you need to refresh your hair after landing, a dry shampoo can help absorb excess oil and add volume.

Hydration for Your Hair

Consider using a hydrating hair mask the night before your flight or during a layover. This provides an intensive moisture boost that can make a big difference in how your hair feels and looks.

5. General Tips for Staying Fresh

Pack a Beauty Kit

Create a small, travel-friendly beauty kit with your essentials—moisturizers, lip balm, hand cream, and any other items you can’t live without. Keep it accessible in your personal item so you can easily reach for it when needed.

Stay Comfortable

Opt for comfortable, breathable clothing and consider wearing a sleep mask and travel pillow to help you relax. Feeling comfortable will help you look and feel better upon arrival.

Stay Active

Stretch and move around periodically during the flight to improve circulation and reduce fatigue. This can also help you feel more refreshed and energized.

Traveling by airplane doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your beauty routine. With a little planning and the right products, you can maintain your skincare and beauty regimen, keeping your skin and hair looking vibrant and healthy. By staying hydrated, choosing the right products, and practicing good in-flight care, you’ll be ready to step off the plane looking as fabulous as you feel.

Happy travels and stay radiant!

Next up, read our beauty travel essentials to ensure you have everything you need!

Affiliate disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.