Photo by Sofia Sforza on Unsplash
Although the school summer holidays are drawing to a close, plenty of people are still taking advantage of the late sunshine and heading abroad for a well-deserved getaway. Whether it’s a quick city break or a long-haul escape, travel plans don’t stop once September rolls around—and neither should your skincare routine.
If you’ve noticed more and more people whipping out sheet masks, mists, and serums mid-flight, you’re not imagining it. In-flight skincare has become something of a trend, with travellers embracing ways to counteract the notorious effects of cabin air: dehydration, dullness, and that tight, tired feeling your skin can’t seem to shake. The truth is, a few well-chosen products can make all the difference between landing with a lacklustre complexion and stepping off the plane looking fresh and radiant.
Here are five jet-set essentials to keep your skin glowing—no matter how long the flight.
Dermalogica Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist
Long-haul flights are notorious for sapping skin of hydration, which is where Dermalogica’s Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist earns its place in your carry-on. This lightweight mist combines powerful hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture levels with barrier-strengthening ceramides to lock that hydration in. A quick spritz mid-flight instantly revives tight, thirsty skin, leaving it plumper and more comfortable. The fine mist is ideal for use over make-up too, so you don’t need to worry about disrupting your travel look. Think of it as your in-flight hydration hero, keeping your complexion fresh and dewy from take-off to touchdown.
Medik8 Ultimate Recovery Bio-Cellulose Mask
If your skin tends to rebel against dry cabin air, Medik8’s Ultimate Recovery Bio-Cellulose Mask is a game-changer. Designed to soothe stressed or compromised skin, it’s infused with nourishing zinc, calming hyaluronic acid, and botanical extracts that deliver intensive moisture and comfort. The bio-cellulose material clings snugly to your face, ensuring maximum absorption even when you’re seated in a cramped cabin. Ten to fifteen minutes is all it takes to replenish parched skin and restore radiance. Pop one into your hand luggage for a mid-flight pamper session—perfect for arriving at your destination looking calm, refreshed, and holiday-ready.
Elemis Superfood Multi Mist
For skin that needs a quick refresh, Elemis Superfood Multi Mist is a multitasker worth its weight in gold. Formulated with antioxidant-rich superfoods and kombucha ferment, this fine mist delivers an instant boost of hydration while also helping to rebalance and protect the skin. It works beautifully as a primer before you board, a hydration hit mid-flight, and even as a setting spray for make-up. With its uplifting, light fragrance, a quick spritz not only perks up your complexion but also your mood—just the thing for a weary traveller. Expect radiant, healthy-looking skin, no matter how long the journey.
SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Essence Mist
Redness, irritation, or sensitivity mid-flight? SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Essence Mist has you covered. This dermatologist-loved formula is infused with botanical extracts, including cucumber, thyme, and olive leaf, alongside hyaluronic acid for weightless hydration. The ultra-fine mist calms, cools, and replenishes skin instantly, making it an excellent choice for those prone to sensitivity during travel. What sets it apart is its ability to soothe while also keeping skin plump and hydrated, even in the driest cabin conditions. Compact enough for your carry-on, it’s a brilliant skin saviour to spritz liberally throughout the flight for calm, balanced, refreshed skin on arrival.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50
No in-flight skincare routine is complete without SPF, especially if you’re seated by the window where UV rays can still reach your skin. CeraVe’s AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50 is the perfect travel companion, combining high-level sun protection with lightweight hydration. Enriched with ceramides and niacinamide, it helps to restore and strengthen the skin barrier while keeping your complexion calm and nourished. Its non-greasy texture makes it comfortable for long wear, even in stuffy cabin conditions. Apply before boarding and reapply as needed to ensure your skin stays protected, healthy, and ready for whatever adventures await on landing.