Long flights can be tough on the body and the skin. Between the dry air, lack of sleep, and sitting in one spot for hours on end, it’s no wonder that many people feel exhausted and run down by the time they reach their destination. But it doesn’t have to be that way! With a little of planning, you can land your flight feeling relaxed and refreshed. Here are a few tips to help you achieve travel beauty bliss.
1. Pack efficiently beforehand
It’s tempting to over pack when it comes to travel beauty products and clothes, but this can actually make it more difficult to find what you’re looking for once you board. To avoid feeling frazzled before your flight, take some time to pack efficiently. Make a packing list ahead so you know what you need to bring. And be sure to pack your carry-on essentials—such as lip balm, hand cream, and a scarf or shawl—in an easily accessible place. That way, you won’t have to go rummaging through your suitcase mid-flight to find what you need.
2. Watch what you eat
What you eat can significantly impact your feelings during and after a long flight. To avoid feeling bloated or sluggish, avoid salty foods and heavy meals. Instead, choose lighter food such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. And be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated—dehydration can make jet lag worse. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine before a flight also helps keep your energy and body balanced.
If you’re in for a long flight, practicing intermittent fasting helps avoid jet lag and helps your circadian rhythm adjust to the new time zone more quickly. If you’re traveling for work and want to eat something substantial, opt for a high-protein option such as eggs, nuts, or seafood. These foods are digested slowly and help keep blood sugar levels stable throughout the day.
3. Dress comfortably
Dressing for comfort is vital when traveling—you don’t want to be stuck in an uncomfortable outfit for hours on end! Choose clothes made from breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. And if you’ll be traveling in the winter, layer up so you can adjust your clothing as needed throughout the flight. While it can be tempting to wear a pair of skintight skinny jeans on a flight, it’s best to stick to loose-fitting pants and tops. This will make it easier for you to move around and get comfortable.
4. Stay hydrated
As mentioned, staying hydrated is crucial when traveling—especially when flying. The cabin pressure and dry air in airplanes can quickly dehydrate the skin, so drink plenty of water throughout your flight. And if possible, avoid alcohol and caffeine in the air because these can further dehydrate the body. Sticking to water, tea, and fruit juices ensures you stay hydrated and feel good.
Having at least eight ounces of water every hour will help you avoid dehydration and its symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue. If you forget to bring a bottle of water with you or the flight attendant says there isn’t, ask if they’ll sell one. If not, buy a small bottle from an airport shop and keep it handy in your carry-on luggage.
5. Apply your skincare routine
Flying can take a toll on your skin, so taking care of it before and during your flight is essential. Be sure to cleanse and moisturize your skin before boarding the plane—this will help create a barrier against the dry airplane air. And don’t forget to pack travel-sized versions of your favorite skincare products so you can touch them up mid-flight. A few must-haves include lip balm, hand cream, and face masks.
If you’re going to be doing your makeup on the plane, products like a primer serum that’s hydrating can help your skin feel less dehydrated. This is because they contain hyaluronic acid, which is a natural moisturizer that helps your skin retain moisture. Dewy foundations, cream products, and matte lipsticks are also great options. They contain humectants, which attract water to your skin and help it stay hydrated. And don’t forget to bring along a travel-sized bottle of facial mist or toner so you can refresh throughout the flight.
Final Thoughts
A good flight doesn’t start once you board the plane but the hours before you even arrive at the airport. With some planning, you can land on your next long flight feeling relaxed and refreshed. By packing efficiently, watching what you eat, dressing comfortably, staying hydrated, and taking care of your skin, you can minimize the effects of flying and enjoy your vacation from the moment you step off the plane.