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Whether you’re jetting off to a sunny retreat or preparing for a trip around Europe, it’s likely you’ll have a connecting flight along the way. Traveling can irritate the skin and cause extreme dryness and breakouts due to the recycled air in the cabin that draws all the moisture from the dermis. In turn, dry skin gets even drier while oily skin gets oilier to compensate for the lack of hydration.
Make use of your layover by following our skincare and beauty tips to treat dry skin and dull hair, so that you look radiant upon arrival.
1. EXFOLIATE
After your first flight, use a mild exfoliator to remove dry skin cells that have accumulated on the surface. Opt for a gentle exfoliator, like the Elemis Gentle Rose Exfoliator (US 43; AED/SAR 158), so that you don’t scratch or aggravate your sensitive skin.
2. HYDRATE
Next, apply a hydrating gel mask, such as the Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Mask (US $41; AED/SAR 151), to add back essential moisture to your dermis. Leave it on for five to 10 minutes before rinsing it off. The refreshing mask is clear, making it more socially acceptable. Follow with a moisturizer to combat the post-flight dryness. Avoid petroleum-based moisturizers and instead opt for a water-based formula. The Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief (US $39; AED/SAR 143) comprises hyaluronic acid to draw and retain moisture from the air.
3. BLOT
Those with extremely oily skin should take heed of blotting papers. When the skin is stripped of moisture, the oil glands go into overdrive and start producing more oil than necessary, which eventually manifests into painful breakouts. You can keep your oil levels under control by blotting away excess oil or immediately cleansing post-flight to keep the skin clear.
4. HAIR TREATMENT
You can avoid dry, split ends by smoothing an oil treatment on your hair tips. We suggest the Pantene Smooth and Silky Oil Replacement (US $5; AED/SAR 18).
5. STAY HYDRATED
Water loss leads to dehydration and is further accentuated in high altitudes. While you wait for your connecting flight, make up for all the lost fluids and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
6. RELAX
If you have enough time to indulge, head to an airport spa. A growing number of spas and salons can now be found at many airport terminals. Opt for a massage so that you can relieve the tension from sitting on a stiff airplane chair for hours before you have to do it all over again.
—Khaoula Ghanem
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