Refresh on the Fly

I recently returned from a quick getaway that included a few plane flights, and my skin is definitely showing the effects of the dry, in-flight environment. As spring break trips are upon us, it’s the perfect time to remind clients of travel skincare recommendations (there's a lot more to remember than just moisturizer). New York City board-certified dermatologist, Barney Kenet, M.D., recommends doubling down on skincare and a few easy-to-follow tips worth sharing with your clients so they can put their best faces forward:

  1. Pre-Pack—Avoid the last-minute scramble trying to get your favorite lotion into one of those little bottles. Keep a pre-packed, TSA compliant beauty bag at home stocked with the essentials:  face cleanser, moisturizer, and travel-size versions of your regular makeup. Check out the website www3floz.com which features an array of products in approved sizes.   
  2. Go bare—Give your skin a break while flying. Instead break out your beauty bag and apply light makeup when you arrive at your destination. If going completely bare seems too daring, apply an oil-free moisturizer, a light lip gloss, and a good blemish base before your flight. Try a lip product such as Neutrogena Naturals Lip Balm to keep your lips moist. But, definitely skip foundation, eye makeup and the rest of the works so they’re not sitting on your skin throughout your flight.
  3. Bring Your Own Pillowcase—Reduce your exposure to bacteria and allergens on the plane. Pack a pillowcase in your carry-on and use it. Also, pack a light shawl that you can use instead of the airplane blanket. Use anti-bacterial wipes on tray tables, as well as on the phone and remote control when you get to your hotel room.
  4. Choose Liquids Wisely—Avoid or limit caffeine and alcohol.  Sip green tea, mineral water, or plain water without ice instead. If you can’t resist coffee or a glass of wine, make sure to “pre-drink” an equal amount of water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
  5. Moisturize and Refresh—Pack a multitasking product such as Aquaphor and apply it to your lips, nostrils, and cuticles to combat dry, germ-filled air that recirculates in the airplane cabin. Consider packing a small washcloth in a baggie so you can dip it in bottled water to refresh your face. 
  6. Pack Your Own Food—Skip the salted chips and other junk-food snacks that can play havoc with your skin.  Instead, bring your own healthy snacks—apples, carrots, sliced turkey, low-fat cheese, unsalted nuts, for instance.  
  7. Finally, don’t forget the SPF 30 sunscreen—Whether you’re headed for the beach, the ski slope, or planning to stroll the boulevards of Paris, you’re going to need it.

Says Kenet, “Travel can be stressful and hard on the skin, but a few precautions can help you stay on track.” What do you tell clients to help them stay on track on the road or in the air?