My Do’s and Don’ts for Airline Skin Care – It’s Different for the Window Seat

MANY people keep their skincare routine in-house, but one expert says it’s time to take it on the go, too.

She shared her own do’s and don’ts for in-flight beauty routines.

2

Katie Matten is Global Head of Education for Rationale, an Australian skincare brand.

Matten told The US Sun what her recommendations are for keeping your skin hydrated while flying.

“It’s important to take care of your skin in different climates and conditions, and that’s not to mention the impact that the air quality on an airplane has on our skin when we fly,” she said.

“We should always use moisturizers, antioxidants and SPF, during the day but also on the plane.”

WINDOW OR AISLE?

Matten explained why cleanliness on board a plane is super important. In fact, there are some surprising threats to your skin on board.

“UV exposure increases with altitude. Airplane windows typically filter some UVB radiation, but do not sufficiently block UVA radiation,” she said.

“The light from our devices needs to be protected and that’s where antioxidants come in.

“But if you prefer to sit by the window, sunscreen is an absolute must.”

PLAN YOUR ROUTINE

She indicated which ingredients you can use in addition to SPF.

“To keep the complexion balanced and blemish-free, niacinamide and hydroxy acids are brilliant. Daily use of both is essential,” she said.

“Antioxidants play an essential role in protection and repair.

“So, finding the right hydrator with a good dose of vitamin C for [the] during the day and vitamin A in the evening will make your skin look plumper, younger and well hydrated.”

WHAT TO DO AND WHAT NOT TO DO

Matten said cleaning is absolutely essential while traveling, and it’s doubly important during long trips.

“If you’re on a long flight, cleanse your body twice: once halfway through and again before landing,” she said.

“This keeps your skin free from air pollution from airplanes and bacteria from the recycled air.

Another “do”?

“Applying a rich, hydrating cream with ceramides and lipids is essential to prevent dehydration and keep you from looking like you just got off a long flight,” she says.

As for things to avoid, she had one simple step she could skip at 35,000 feet. She recommended waiting until she was back on solid ground.

“[Don’t] “Exfoliate or use highly active serums in the air,” she said.

“In this environment, our skin needs moisture and barrier protection. Save the acids, peels, and retinoid creams for once you land.”

LOOK AT THE WATER

Matten gives her best beauty advice for every travel situation.

“Never go to bed without a double cleanse,” she said

Apply more SPF than you think you need and reapply every four hours when outdoors.

“If the water is hard or your skin suddenly feels tight after showering, protect your skin barrier with a thin layer of cleanser while showering.

“Then use bottled water to cleanse yourself when you go outside. Your skin will thank you.”

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU LANDS

Matten came up with a way to make you feel completely reborn as soon as you arrive at your destination.

“A gentle cleanse is great, it gives you a chance to completely reset,” she said.

“If it’s daytime, apply a layer of antioxidants, a good moisturizer, and an excellent SPF of at least 50.

In the evening, a mild cleansing and moisturizing is recommended.

“The next day you can continue with your normal evening routine, especially if it contains hydroxy acids and vitamin A.”

Finally, she shared a tip for internal ways to improve the skin.

“There are some fantastic skin supplements out there that contain hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamins, collagen, and so on,” she said.

“If you add one to your water or juice every day with breakfast, it’s the best way to start the day. It will keep your skin looking firm and radiant.”

2