Does Travel Wreak Havoc on the Skin?

Have you ever gotten off a plane feeling like you just ate an entire salt lick even though you drank six mini cups of water on the flight and guzzled a full bottle of water before going through security? The dehydrated feeling is common, and it’s because flying zaps your body, and thus your skin, of moisture.

Why does this occur? It’s because the humidity level in the plane’s cabin is typically 20 to 40 percent lower than most indoor environments. So how does this impact your skin? For starters it depletes it of moisture, which is extremely uncomfortable, and can also lead to a dull appearance and ultimately premature aging. If summer travel is in your stars, don’t fret – there are a few things you can do to combat the dehydration.

Traveling arsenal of skin care

One of the most important things you can do is to get a good skin care travel kit. This can be as simple or as complex as you’d like, but at a minimum you want to look for a something with a cleanser, toner and sunscreen. The cleanser will help other products (like moisturizers) you put on your face actually penetrate and not just sit on the surface.

Toners make excellent traveling companions. They’re simple and quick to use, and they help regulate and maintain balance, hydration and skin nutrition. How? Toners remove excess oils and debris (acting as a second cleanser) from the skin allowing its antioxidant, mineral and hydrating properties to work deep into skin tissues. This helps prevent water loss, and depending on the formula, can also help firm up the skin.

Keep in mind too, that while the flight alone will do enough to dehydrate your skin, the sun will only exacerbate the moisture loss. Be sure to cover up with a good sun protection formula.

Finally, and this may go without saying, drink plenty of water before, during and after your flight, and if possible use the toner right after you deplane. This will help prevent dry, irritated skin. Happy travels.