MANY keep their skincare regimens confined to their homes, but one expert says it’s time to take it on the go.
She dished on her very own dos and don’ts of airplane beauty routines.
Katie Matten is the Global Head of Education for Rationale, an Australian skincare brand.
Matten told The U.S. Sun her recommendations to keep your complexion hydrated while flying.
“Looking after your skin through different climates and conditions is important, not to mention the impact that air quality on a plane has on our skin if flying is on the agenda,” she said.
“We should always be applying hydrators, antioxidants, and SPF in the day, but also on a plane.”
Matten explained why beauty onboard an aircraft is super important—in fact, there are some surprising threats to your skin there.
“UV exposure increases with altitude, and windows on a plane usually filter out some UVB rays, but won’t sufficiently block UVA rays,” she said.
“The light from our devices needs defending, which is where antioxidants come into it.
“But if you like the window seat, sunscreen is an absolute must.”
She dished on some ingredients to use in addition to SPF.
“To keep the complexion balanced and blemish-free, niacinamide and hydroxy acids are brilliant. Daily use of both is essential,” she said.
“Antioxidants play a vital role in protection and repair.
“So, finding the right hydrator with a good dose of vitamin C for [the] daytime and vitamin A for the evening will keep your skin looking plump, rejuvenated, and well-hydrated.”
Matten said cleansing is a must for travel and is essential for long trips.
“If you’re on a long-haul flight, cleanse twice — once in the middle, and again before landing,” she said.
“This will keep your skin free of plane air pollution and germs from the recycled air.
Another “do”?
“Applying a rich, hydrating cream with ceramides and lipids is key to avoiding dehydration and ‘looking like you’ve just had a long flight,'” she said.
As far as things to avoid, she had a simple step to skip while 35,000 feet in the air, recommending waiting to be back on solid ground.
“[Don’t] exfoliate or use highly active serums in the air,” she said.
“In this environment, our skin needs moisture and barrier protection. Save the acids, peels, and retinoid creams for once you land.”
Matten explained some of her top beauty advice for any travel situation.
“Never go to bed without a double cleanse,” she said
“Apply more SPF than you think you need, and re-apply every four hours if outdoors.
“If the water is hard, or your skin suddenly feels tight after showering, protect your barrier with a light layer of cleanser while showering.
“Then, use bottled water to cleanse once you step out. Your skin will thank you for that one.”
Matten included a way to feel brand new once arriving at the destination.
“A gentle cleanse is great, it allows you to hit reset,” she said.
“If it’s daytime, apply a layer of antioxidants, a good hydrator, and an excellent SPF 50 plus.
“If it’s nighttime, a gentle cleanse and hydrator is preferred.
“You can then continue with your normal evening routine the following day, especially if it includes hydroxy acids and vitamin A.”
Finally, she shared a tip for internal ways to improve the skin.
“There are some wonderful skin supplements that contain hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamins, collagen, et cetera,” she said.
“Having one of these each day in your water or juice at breakfast is the best way to start the day, and keeps your skin plump and glowing.”
