Is airplane air bad for your skin?

Airplane acne is a real thing, and many travelers are affected by it. The dry air on airplanes can irritate your skin, no matter what type you have. For those with already dry skin, the air on a plane can exacerbate the dryness, while those with oily skin could produce excess oils to compensate for the dryness.



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The Airport and Airplanes are Full of Germs Airplanes are just as dirty. Studies have shown bacteria and viruses living on armrests, seat belts, window shades, tray tables, toilet handles, and more for DAYS.

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The main aspect of in-flight health that most of us will encounter is tiredness and changes to circadian rhythms. Flying often involves getting up at unsociable hours, inadequate sleep and messing up the body clock — all of which leave us more susceptible to being hit nastily by any bugs that may be floating about.

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“This means that the skin on your face and body can become incredibly dehydrated, even on a short flight.” The consequences can appear in the form of oily skin, breakouts and puffiness, as the skin desperately tries to hang on to water and compensate for the arid conditions.

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Airplane acne is a real thing, and many travelers are affected by it. The dry air on airplanes can irritate your skin, no matter what type you have. For those with already dry skin, the air on a plane can exacerbate the dryness, while those with oily skin could produce excess oils to compensate for the dryness.

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How do flight attendants have clear skin? In general, it is important to have well-groomed and clean skin when working as a cabin crew member. This means that you should regularly wash your face, apply sunscreen, and moisturize your skin. You should also avoid wearing heavy makeup or using harsh chemicals on your skin.

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Before: Clean your skin and moisturize with a thick, non-fragranced cream. It is best to refrain from makeup on an airplane as to not clog your pores, but if you are going to wear makeup, use a non-comedogenic type.

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Here's what they recommend.
  1. Stay Hydrated Internally to Retain Moisture Externally.
  2. Keep Your Lips Hydrated With an Ointment.
  3. Wear Sunscreen Even on Travel Days.
  4. Try to Bring Your Usual Products With You.
  5. Avoid Using Potentially Irritating Hotel Skin-Care Products.
  6. Prepare for Acne Breakouts.


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“While plain water is best for staying hydrated, other drinks and foods can help, too,” says Theunissen. “Fruit and vegetable juices, milk and herbal teas add to the amount of water you get each day.” Consider bringing your own herbal tea bags while flying.

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Airplanes are controlled environments typically kept at only 10-20% humidity. This is far lower than the 35-65% humidity of normal everyday environments. Lower humidity in the air can lead to quicker dehydration.

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To help keep your skin clear, use a gentle exfoliant or facial scrub? before and after your flight. Sloughing away any dead dry skin will keep it from lingering on your face and leave you with smooth and glowing skin.

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To add to that the increased altitude and low air pressure mean that the lymphatic system is not able to properly transfer the fluid, which increases retention.” Meanwhile the low humidity of the air means that moisture evaporates from the skin, leading to increased dehydration.

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Scientists have done the math, and it turns out that frequent fliers actually age the tiniest bit more quickly than people with both feet on the ground. But not to worry, the difference is so small, you don't have to worry about extra wrinkles.

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Clean your skin.
If not, it'll have an even harder time breathing than it already is (thanks, stale, recirculated airplane air) and the hydrating products you apply won't sink in as much as they could. I'd also recommend not washing your face in the airplane bathroom if you can avoid it.

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Do You Need a Pre-Flight Skincare Routine? This is not necessary for most people, Love says of those full-bodied GRWM flight routines. But the skin can be hydrated with facial mists, sheet masks, and/or a full routine if desired.

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“My best recommendation is to apply moisturizer before getting on the plane to act as a barrier to the environment.” Dr. Zeichner recommends Vaseline All Over Body Balm, which can be used to create a protective seal over the skin (including your face, body, hands, and cuticles).

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