It’s no secret that when we travel our skin suffers. Whether it be long or short haul flights, our skin unfortunately takes the brunt of the recycled air and is exposed to the bacteria floating in the cabin. Australian Skin Clinics’ National Training Manager, Darlene O’Gara, shares her advice to restore the glow post-flight.
Prepare for take-off
Regardless of the amount of time you will be spending in the air, flying is incredibly dehydrating and can have lasting effects on your skin. To help combat the dehydration, apply a rich moisturiser before boarding, preferably one that is high in hyaluronic acid and vitamins like vitamin A or E.
“Hyaluronic acid keeps collagen synthesis up, as well as retaining skin moisture, contributing to the anti-aging benefits to the skin,” says Darlene. “Vitamin E oil works to block free radicals from the body while Vitamin A encourages healthy skin cell production. Vitamin A also stimulates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for developing tissue that keeps skin firm and healthy, in the deep layers of your skin.”
Make sure you also travel with a good quality hand cream because it isn’t just our face that suffers!
Flying high, not dry
When flying, try to avoid wearing heavy, long-stay makeup by swapping it out for a mineral makeup. This allows the skin to breathe and will also increase the benefits of your pre-flight moisturiser application.
“Try to re-apply moisturiser regularly throughout flights or when you feel your skin drying out,” suggests Darlene. “If you feel like moisturiser is too heavy to keep re-applying, a great alternative is a hydrating mist to deliver moisture to thirsty skin, mists can also have the added benefit of leaving you feeling more awake and refreshed. Our favourite is the Balense Moisture Spritz!”
“Also, be aware of how much you touch your face and make a conscious effort to stop, as it’s the quickest way for bacteria to spread.”
Another great habit when flying is to drink lots of water – pre, during and post! It’s a simple yet effective way of helping your skin stay hydrated and looking its best. If you’re really serious, skip the temptation of an alcoholic beverage as it will dehydrate your skin even more.
Prepare for landing
The effects of flying don’t stop the minute you touch down and leave the plane, for a few days after your skin may be feeling dry, dehydrated, lackluster and lifeless.
To combat this, fuel your body with lots of skin-loving foods, such as fresh fruit and vegetables. Foods high in Omega 3, such as salmon and flaxseeds, will also help to minimise the effect on inflamed skin and aid in recovery.
“If your skincare routine doesn’t seem to improve your skin post travels then it’s worth considering a booking yourself a microdermabrasion with LED Light Therapy,” says Darlene.
“Exfoliating facial treatments such as microdermabrasions and medi-aesthetic peels rejuvenate the skin, helping to restore elasticity and remove dead skin and built-up pollution. Adding LED Light Therapy to your microderm will target deep into the skin cells not just the surface, aiding the natural functions and healing from the inside out.
To find out more on how your skin can recover from a flight visit your local Australian Skin Clinics for a complimentary consultation.
