September 21, 2025, 12:25 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Flying on vacation this year? For most, time on the plane is just a means to an end to enjoy a well-deserved break. But did you know you can already do something for yourself on board? And it’s quite simple! Just avoid these three things to help your beauty reach new heights.
Bags packed, checked in, and off to the plane! Whether you’re heading on vacation or traveling for work, you can use the time above the clouds wisely to care for your skin during the flight. We don’t mean unpacking your entire skincare line and doing a thorough routine in seat 3C or the tiny airplane bathroom. It’s much simpler–you can help your skin by avoiding these three things.
Avoid These to Care for Your Skin During the Flight
Say “No, Thanks” to Salty Snacks
Even if we stick to a balanced diet in everyday life, we often become more relaxed about it when traveling. While that’s perfectly fine, unfortunately, our skin is less thrilled about it. On one hand, the sudden change in diet during vacation–such as eating greasier or spicier foods–can be challenging for our skin. On the other hand, the so-called “plane face” can occur, especially on the plane.
Due to the low air pressure and dry air on board, our bodies dehydrate faster, which naturally affects the skin. What makes it worse are salty snacks. The salt in flight classics like chips, peanuts, and similar treats retains water in the body, leading to swelling. Combined with limited movement from long sitting, this makes our faces look puffy and bloated.
You might also be interested in: Why You Should Wear Sunscreen on the Plane
Facial Sprays Don’t Support In-Flight Skincare
To prevent the dehydration described above, many people reach for facial sprays on the plane. But be cautious, as they might have the opposite effect of what you want. Even if your rose water with hyaluronic acid serves you well on the ground, conditions are different on the plane.
The average humidity in an airplane is around 12 percent, while on the ground, it’s over 70 percent. This means ingredients like hyaluronic acid can’t work properly. They’re supposed to infuse moisture into the skin. However, with little moisture in the environment, the skin tries to compensate for this imbalance, losing more water in the process. The result: dry, tight, and dull-looking skin.
If you still don’t want to give up your facial spray, ensure that ingredients like rose extract, panthenol, or other moisturizing and soothing substances are sealed into the skin. First, use the spray, then apply a facial oil or a rich cream with ceramides. These strengthen the skin barrier, making it more resilient and less permeable. Ideally, spray your face before the flight to prevent skin dehydration and ensure proper skincare.
Let Others Have the Sunny Seat
Admittedly, it’s a beautiful sight: seeing the sun from a plane high above the clouds. But as lovely as the view is, the situation is dangerous for your skin. The radiation is much stronger up there than on the ground. While the windows block UVB rays, which cause sunburn, UVA rays still penetrate your skin and can cause significant damage.
Besides accelerating skin aging, it can also increase the risk of skin cancer. To ensure optimal skincare during the flight, it’s best to avoid a window seat. At the very least, apply sunscreen that also protects against UVA rays to arrive at your destination relaxed and radiant.