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Taking a flight is usually something to look forward to, because it likely means you’re going on vacation or attending a fun event or celebration.
However, one thing that I personally don’t look forward to is the way my skin feels after the flight.
No matter how quick the flight is, my skin feels tight and dehydrated afterward, and although I don’t have acne-prone skin, I never fail to discover a few new pimples when I look in the hotel mirror.
If that experience sounds familiar, you’ve probably also wondered whether there’s any way to prevent pimples when you fly. Well, you’ve come to the right place.
I spoke with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce at Westlake Dermatology to find out how you can prevent breakouts.
Why do I get breakouts when I fly?
According to Dr. Bruce, flying can throw your skin way off balance.
She notes that stress, changes to your usual routine, snacking on processed foods, and the dry cabin air (which can trigger your skin to produce excess oil) all play a role in contributing to breakouts.
“It’s the perfect storm for breakouts—especially if your skin is already prone to them,” says Dr. Bruce.
So, how do you fight these factors? It all starts with pre-flight skin prep.
How to prep your skin for a flight
“Start with a gentle cleanse the morning of your flight and apply a lightweight, moisturizing sunscreen,” advises Dr. Bruce.
Skip the heavy makeup and try to resist touching your face (easier said than done, I know) to prevent the spread of acne-causing bacteria.
Our expert advises that mid-flight, a hydrating mist can help refresh and hydrate yourskin. Just don’t get any on your seatmate.
How to treat post-flight breakouts
“After landing, use a gentle salicylic acid pad or cleanser, followed by a hydrating serum like hyaluronic acid to keep things calm and balanced,” Dr. Bruce tells E!.
If you see acne starting to arise, she says to avoid piling on a harsh acne treatments. Instead, stick to your regular skincare routine. That includes using face wash, using a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer at night, and never skipping sunscreen during the day.
“A mild exfoliating product (think salicylic acid or lactic acid) a few times a week can help speed up recovery,” says Dr. Bruce. So be sure to pack one of our options below.
And just like that, airplane acne will vanish!
This is your dermatologist-approved guide on preventing breakouts when you fly, featuring products from The Outset, YSEBeauty, Moira Cosmetics, and more.
Kiramoon Silkie Cleanser
Looking for a cleanser that won’t disrupt your skin barrier? This gentle face wash is the answer.
Made in South Korea, this cleanser contains pre and probiotics for a thorough cleanse that wont’ strip your skin.
It’s free of fragrance and oil and is non-comedogenic, which means it’s ideal for sensitive- or acne-prone skin.
SolaWave Solabiome Hydrating Gel Cleanser
Mid-flight, use this face mist for a refreshing boost of hydration.
It contains aloe vera and rose water to hydrate dry skin and soothe inflammation.
Buttah Skin Aloe Rose Refreshing Face Mist
Mid-flight, use this face mist for a refreshing boost of hydration.
It contains aloe vera and rose water to hydrate dry skin and soothe inflammation.
SolaWave Solabiome Refreshing Jelly Mist
A spritz of this face mist will go along way in giving your skin a quick boost of hydration.
Formulated with vitamin B5, antioxidants, and vitamin E, this fast-absorbing formula will help balance your skin’s microbiome.
Moira Cosmetics 10% Niacinamide & 1.9% Salicylic Acid Oil Control Serum
Featuring a lightweight gel texture, this serum contains niacinamide to combat shine and minimize the appearance of pores as well as salicylic acid to reduce and prevent blemishes.
It also contains sodium hyaluronate to deliver an extra boost of hydration.
Bubble Skincare Super Clear
This serum is designed to stop acne in tracks.
The formula contains 2% salicylic acid and willow bark extract, both of which help unclog pores and prevent breakouts.
Moira Cosmetics Hyaluronic 10 Complex Serum
Achieve plump skin and a stronger barrier thanks to this hyaluronic acid serum.
Ideal for boosting hydration post-flight, it will leave skin feeling moisturized and rejuvenated.
The Outset Ultralight Moisture-Boosting Oil
To smooth, hydrate, and restore skin, add this lightweight oil to your post-flight skincare routine.
Made with açai and avocado oil, it absorbs quickly, which makes it a great option to apply beneath makeup.
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