6 Skincare Mistakes to Avoid Before and After a Flight This Winter

An airplane’s cabin is already dry, but add in the winter climate and your skin practically begs for help. This season, keep skin healthy and moisturized by avoiding these six common mistakes when traveling:

Don’t Do Intensive Exfoliation Before a Trip

You may think a last-minute attempt for smooth and glowing skin is a good idea, but exfoliating products, which already cause dryness, stinging and flaking, worsens in cold weather. Reduce use of products containing retinol, glycolic acid or salicylic acid. That said, anyone using prescribed skincare should follow their doctor’s advice.

Don’t Bring a Lightweight Summer Moisturizer to a Cold-Weather Destination

A light lotion often doesn’t provide enough moisture for skin in cold and dry conditions. Instead, pack a richer, fragrance-free cream, and reapply as needed. This isn’t just for the face, either. Be sure to give your hands and lips some attention, too!

Don’t Wait Until You Land to Handle Your Dry Skin

Aircraft cabin humidity is about 20 percent (compared to 40–60 percent in an office), leaving face and lips drier. Apply your favorite moisturizer before boarding and keep handy onboard to reapply when skin feels tight.

Avoid Long, Hot Showers

If you’ve spent the whole day sightseeing in the cold, a steaming hot shower will sound tempting, but this can actually worsen dry skin. Keep water warm instead of hot and limit your shower to about 5–10 minutes. Pat skin dry and apply moisturizer when skin is still slightly damp, as this helps skin retain moisture.

Don’t Forget Sunscreen

Yes, even in cold weather, you can get burned. In fact, in popular destinations like ski resorts, altitude and UV reflected from the snow actually increases risk of sunburn. Bring sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, and don’t forget to apply not only to your face but also your neck and ears.

… And Reapply That Sunscreen!

Don’t think you can simply do one thorough application of sunscreen and be good for the rest of the day. Use sunscreen at least every two hours when exposed to sunlight, as well as after sweating, swimming and towel drying.

“People often blame jet lag for dull, uncomfortable skin after a flight, but dry cabin air can also play a part,” said Danielle Louise, expert, Fresha, a booking platform for beauty and wellness, which also compiled these tips. “A few simple changes, from protecting your skin barrier before flying to adjusting your routine for the weather when you arrive, can make a noticeable difference.”