Photo via @mathilderavnc
Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons, and if you still have flights to catch before it wraps up, the question of what to pack in your personal bag inevitably comes up. In-flight skincare content is everywhere right now, with creators sharing elaborate multi-step routines that look great on camera but raise a practical question: is that actually a good idea at 30,000 feet? The short answer is no. Planes are notorious for circulating bacteria, which means slathering on multiple products mid-flight is doing more harm than good. That said, doing absolutely nothing isn’t the answer either. The dry cabin air is genuinely brutal on your skin, and a pared-down approach using the right products can make a real difference in how you look and feel when you land. Ahead, the only in-flight skincare products worth packing—and exactly how to use them.
Pre-Board Skincare
Do the bulk of your skincare before you even step on the plane. You can do this at home before you even get to the airport to maximize your time. Start with a gentle cleanse, then layer on a hydrating serum packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. Lock everything in with a nourishing moisturizer that’s slightly richer than what you’d typically wear during the day. Finish with a generous amount of SPF if you’ll be exposed to sunlight through airport windows or during daytime travel.
In-Flight Skincare
After settling in, resist the urge to keep applying products every hour. Constantly touching your face can transfer germs and disrupt your skin barrier. Instead, leave your skin alone unless it starts feeling genuinely tight or uncomfortable. While many influencers often do sheet masks during a flight, it’s actually not recommended since it can easily spread germs. However, if you feel like your skin is drying out, spraying a facial mist all over and popping on some minimal eye patches will do the trick. Finally, don’t forget your lips! Apply a balm or lip butter as often as necessary, avoiding any products that need to be applied with a finger like a lip mask.
Summer Skin Essentials
