EXPERTS have revealed the new inflight habit that’s been deemed the “worst etiquette”.
The latest inflight trend is leaving travellers fuming, and experts have labelled it a serious breach of air travel etiquette.
Passengers are now being blasted for taking their skincare routines to new heights—literally.
Dermatologists and etiquette pros are weighing in on the rise of sheet masks at 30,000 feet.
The beauty hack that promises glowing skin while soaring through the air is now being slammed as one of the rudest inflight habits around.
Thanks to TikTok, more and more passengers are treating the cabin like their personal spa, whipping out hydrating sprays, moisturisers, and even LED light masks mid-flight.
It might keep your skin looking fresh, but that doesn’t mean it’s polite, especially when you’re crammed into economy.
Lisa Grotts, an etiquette expert, didn’t mince her words when asked about the trend.
She told Thrillist: “It’s giving me a headache”, making it clear that slapping on a face mask in a cramped plane seat is far from discreet.
Grotts insists passengers should leave their skincare routines for the hotel room, adding: “We’re in tight quarters—you have to be mindful of others.”
The shift in post-pandemic travel has seen people acting a little more boldly in public spaces.
From mid-air meltdowns to bizarre behaviour, it seems common courtesy has taken a nosedive.
But even seemingly harmless acts of “self-care” can come off as selfish when you’re sharing close quarters with dozens of other people.
Jamila Musayeva, another etiquette consultant, also called out the habit.
She says applying a sheet mask or using an LED light mask during a flight can feel intrusive to those nearby.
And, if your skincare products are heavily scented, it’s an added nuisance, especially for passengers with allergies.
But while the etiquette brigade is up in arms, dermatologists say these mid-flight routines might actually help your skin.
Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist, explained that the low humidity on planes causes skin to lose moisture.
Using hydrating products, particularly those containing humectants and emollients, can help keep your skin plump and moisturised.
And those LED masks are apparently not just a TikTok gimmick.
Dr. Jeffrey Fromowitz claims they’re actually good for your skin, reducing inflammation and providing a boost of hydration—ideal for long flights.
Still, despite the skincare benefits, etiquette experts agree that passengers should show some restraint.
A little moisturiser or a quick spritz of hydrating mist is fine, but leave the full skincare routine for when you’re off the plane.
After all, no one wants to sit next to someone wearing a sheet mask while they’re trying to relax on a budget flight.
So, if you’re thinking of hopping on the trend—think again.
Keep it simple and save the spa day for after you land.
Meanwhile, one passenger who’s particularly keen on inflight skin care is beauty blogger Erica Nicole.
The influencer took to Tiktok to share her skincare go-to when flying, after struggling with acne for several years.
Even flight attendants can be guilty of this, as one reveals her long-haul skin care tips that keeps her complexion looking pristine.
