Before Your Flight To avoid landing at your destination with clogged pores, try double cleansing—that is, using a cleansing balm to remove your makeup followed by a gentle, soap-free cleanser afterward. Flying during the day? SPF is just as important while you're in the air as it is while on land.

Preparing your skin for a flight in 2026 is all about building a strong moisture barrier to combat the extremely dry, recirculated cabin air, which typically has less than 10% humidity. Starting two days before your trip, you should stop using "harsh" actives like retinols or strong exfoliating acids that can sensitize or strip the skin. On the day of the flight, the goal is "hydration layering." Start with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, followed by a humectant serum (like Hyaluronic Acid or Squalane) and seal it all in with a "thick" occlusive moisturizer or a facial oil to prevent transepidermal water loss. If you are on a daytime flight, SPF is mandatory, as UV radiation is significantly stronger at 35,000 feet and plane windows do not block all UVA rays. It is also highly recommended to skip makeup entirely, as foundations can become "cakey" and trap bacteria in the dry environment. Finally, hydrate from the inside out by drinking plenty of water and avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol, which further dehydrates the skin and contributes to post-flight puffiness.