Dermatologists Discredit TikTok's Plane Skin Care Trend

Here are the reasons to reserve that 10-step regimen for your hotel accommodation.

The dry air in airplanes, heightened stress levels, and sleep deprivation can significantly damage your skin during flights. TikTok advocates a 10-step skincare regimen—featuring collagen sheet masks, moisturizing serums, and gua sha sculpting—as a remedy for travel-induced acne and dryness; nevertheless, experts remain unconvinced.

“I find masks on airplanes to be repugnant,” states Dr. Karan Lal, a board-certified dermatologist and member of the ELLE Beauty Advisory Board. “I fail to comprehend why influencers deem it significant or aesthetically pleasing to apply skincare products on an airplane, as they are merely layering substances circulated within the cabin onto their skin.”

As a beauty-enthusiast editor frequently traveling for both professional and personal reasons, I sought to determine whether my in-flight skincare regimen was preventing breakouts while travel or exacerbating them. I interviewed Lal, along with double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Morayo Adisa and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Serena Mraz, to ascertain which skincare practices, if any, merit inclusion in your valuable carry-on space.

What is the reason for dryness and breakouts associated with flying?

If you believe that air travel causes your skin to break out (even if you are not predisposed to acne) or seems lackluster and dehydrated, you are not alone. According to Dr. Adisa, certain unavoidable circumstances, such as in-cabin pathogens and arid air, might cause dehydration and result in breakouts. Furthermore, insufficient hydration and the use of beverages during flights do not benefit your skin.

“Acne flare-ups during flying are frequently intensified by elevated cortisol levels resulting from stress, inadequate nutrition, irregular sleep patterns, and a disruption of the skin and gut microbiome,” states Dr. Mraz. She stated that dryness may lead the skin to overproduce oil, creating an environment conducive to acne-causing bacteria.

Fortunately, numerous measures can be implemented to mitigate harmful skin reactions prior to boarding a plane.

What steps should I take to prepare my skin for travel?

Dr. Mraz asserts, "A robust offense constitutes the most effective defense." Prior to flying, she emphasizes the necessity of mineral sunscreen—particularly for individuals seated by the window, as UVA rays can infiltrate airline windows. Dr. Mraz endorses Seaweed Bath Co’s Invisible Mineral SPF for its use of seaweed extracts and bisabolol, a chamomile derivative, which may alleviate irritation while safeguarding the skin from UV damage.

She suggests applying moisturizer to the face, neck, and décolletage, such as Andalou Naturals’ Probiotic + C Renewal Cream. She observes that it includes vitamin C, which safeguards the skin from free radicals and environmental toxins encountered during travel, along with probiotics that assist in balancing the skin's microbiota.

Mraz advocates for a comprehensive approach to skincare, in addition to moisturizer and sunscreen. Reducing cortisol surges by allowing sufficient time to reach the airport, hydrating adequately during your journey, and ensuring adequate rest prior to your flight are vital for preserving healthy skin and overall well-being.

Which goods should I utilize during the flight?

Experts are divided on the products that should be applied on an airplane. Lal contends that the application of skin care products during air travel is superfluous, save for hypochlorous acid sprays, which provide anti-inflammatory and antibacterial advantages that may mitigate breakouts while alleviating redness and irritation. The preferred choice of our editors is Tower 28’s SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray, available in a portable size.

Dr. Adisa additionally advises minimizing in-flight products. “The basis of effective skin care is thoroughly cleansed skin, which is nearly unattainable on an aircraft,” she states. “The aircraft contains a higher concentration of airborne bacteria, germs, and irritants, increasing the risk of skin contamination and potential breakouts or irritation.” She asserts that moisturizing face mists and lip balms suffice for an in-flight rejuvenation.

Conversely, Dr. Mraz contends that the application of skin care products during flights is not a significant impact in the development of acne and dullness. She advocates for alleviating skin sensitivities by maintaining hydration and employing antioxidant-rich skincare components, such as vitamin C, which can safeguard the skin from free radical damage and environmental contaminants.

In summary, minimalism is paramount in aircraft exterior maintenance. A calming face spray and lip balm can enhance your comfort during the journey; nevertheless, it is advisable to reserve sheet masks and red light devices for use in the hotel room. You may prevent bothersome acne and disapproving glances from others seated nearby.