A Dermatologist Shares A Post-Travel Skincare Routine You Need to Try
October 06, 2023
Whenever I step off a plane and check my reflection, I’m always a little taken aback at how haggard I look. Not only does my skin look duller, it also feels different after a flight — tighter, drier and overall less supple than it did pre-boarding. As it turns out, it's not just the dismal fluorescent lighting of the airport bathroom that’s causing me to feel this way.
“Planes are known to be very drying with low humidity, which is why skin tends to look worse after travel,” says Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Below, she’s sharing her top tips and product recommendations for reviving any skin type after a long day of airplane travel.
Post-Travel Skincare Routine
Freshen Up With a Mist
“It can help to boost moisture in the skin using a thermal spring water mist, hydrating serum or sheet mask and a moisturizing cream,” says Dr. Garshick. Key ingredients to look for include hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help bind moisture to the skin and counteract water loss.
Dr. Garshick applies the La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water “immediately post-flight” to give her skin a boost of hydration. This sensitive skin-friendly mist is packed with selenium, a soothing antioxidant, and has a cooling feel that instantly calms jet-lagged skin.
Moisturize With a Mask
For an added boost of hydration, top off with your mist with a face mask. Dr. Garshick’s go-to is the SkinCeuticals Biocellulose Restorative Mask, a pack of six water-soaked masks that instantly cool and calm the skin. Sheet masks are especially convenient for travel, but if you prefer a cream formula, try the Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask. Enriched with vitamin C and a superberry blend, it gives skin an instant glow and dose of moisture — plus, unlike some cream masks, you can leave this one on overnight.
Depuff With an Eye Cream or Face Massager
To combat puffy eyes, look for a serum or cream that contains caffeine. Our editors love the L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid + 1% Caffeine Eye Serum. The product is lightweight, hydrating and features a metal rollerball applicator you can use to gently massage your under-eye area. “Using a cool compress or a face roller can also help to reduce puffiness,” adds Dr. Garshick. Try the Mount Lai Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool, a classic and compact pick that won’t take up too much room in your toiletry case.
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