Good skin in the sky
Hello March! It’s officially peak travel season! As exciting as the thought of a getaway sounds, it can also be a very stressful time. Packing the right travel beauty essentials for a flight will make you look and feel a whole lot better. This is especially the case on long flights. I know, I am speaking from experience after my long international flight to Europe summer 2022. Airplane cabins are known for having very low humidity levels, causing your skin to get very dry. Here are some ways to replenish your skin’s hydration, while also allowing for some in-flight relaxation. From hydrating mists and lip balms to sheet masks because feeling good is an essential part of travel.
But no matter where you’re going, whether a long trip or just a staycation, you’ll need these 12 travel beauty essentials for those long or short flights. Everything is designed to make your time away safer, smoother, and more enjoyable. Oh, and don’t forget the snacks!
Facial mist: A hydrating mist is a great addition to your carry-on because it can moisten your skin and face from the dehydrating cabin air. A hydrating facial mist will keep your skin refreshed and hydrated. I love the SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray, that moisturizes with Hypochlorous acid.
Wipes: Even pre-pandemic, I always brought wipes with me. Also having kids, you just have to. A must-have for cleansing when you’re on a plane. I like to have the peace of mind of wiping down my personal space. Plus, wipes can save the day. They’ll keep you feeling and smelling fresh like these ones from Pipa Mint.
Hydrating mask: Such a favorite among travel beauty essentials because of how easy it is to use, and the fact that it doesn’t really require any rinsing and it’s great for protecting your skin and locking in much needed moisture during your flight. Trust me when I say your skin will thank you for that dose of hydration when you land. Love this one, Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Single Sheet Mask.
Lip Balm: The air recirculated on a plane can leave your skin suffering. A nourishing lip balm in your handbag or carry-on is an absolute essential to prevent chapped, cracked, or uncomfortable lips. An ultra-hydrating lip mask that wraps lips in clean, skin-soothing ingredients. Love the one from Ilia Lip Wrap Hydrating Mask.
Under Eye Patches: We all know the most delicate facial area is around the eyes so applying a revitalizing hydrogel eye patches that instantly hydrate, brighten, and plump, while reducing the appearance of dark circles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. These one from Augustinus Bader The Eye Patches (Single Sachet) are fabulous.
Neck Pillow: It’s so important to support your neck especially in those long flights. There are plenty of travel pillows out there — and many are inflatable if you need to preserve space. Pack a good-quality travel pillow that curve around your head and prevents that dreaded head rolling, so that you can always sleep upright. It can be lifesaving on the longest of journeys. This travel pillow gives you better ergonometric head and neck support than a regular U-shaped neck pillow and adapts to fit anyone.
Hand cream: The most common among travel beauty essentials. Have this readily available to keep your hands moisturized. My go to from L’Occitane is their Nourishing and Protective Shea Butter Hand Cream.
Multi-purpose balm: Such an absolute essential for me. Love the ones for hands, lips and face. Two of my favorites are from Bonjout Beauty and Dior.
Warm sweater or hoodie: Wearing comfortable clothing that keeps you warm and cozy is key. Love this one from Skims.
Warm socks /or Compression socks: If you’re anything like me you want to feel comfortable especially when you’re going to be sitting for hours. In the past I have regretted traveling in flip-flops/sandals without having an extra pair of socks. Now, I’m aways prepared. Also, a pair of compression socks will help to increase circulation, thus preventing swelling in your lower legs and feet.
Reusable water bottle: Carrying a bottle of water on a flight is a non-negotiable. Rather than picking up a single-use water bottle at the airport, which by the way are so expensive, invest in a good reusable water bottle.
A good book: Okay, I mean non-negotiable for me. There’s nothing like the joy of getting stuck into one of the best new books, and a really good book will beat the sub-par in-flight entertainment that’s usually offered. Here are some epic page-turners – 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think and What Women Want: Conversations on Desire, Power, Love and Growth.
Some Tips for In-Flight Essentials
- Master the art of packing. Basically, don’t overpack.
- Pack Smart
- Know the Rules. Be familiar with the carry-on regulations of your airline and/or destination to ensure you pack everything correctly.
- Bigger Isn’t Always Better.
- Create a Checklist.
- Dress in Layers.
