The Best Luxurious Skincare Essentials to Revive Flight-Worn Skin
Photo by Cass Bird for Vogue
Jet lag isn’t the only souvenir you bring home after a long-haul flight—dull, dehydrated skin often tags along, too. Between dry cabin air and erratic travel schedules, your complexion deserves some serious TLC. That’s why I’ve rounded up the most indulgent, skin-reviving essentials to keep you glowing from takeoff to touchdown. Because your passport isn’t the only thing that should be well-stamped and well-prepped.
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Olay Daily Facials Cleansing Cloths
When it comes to in-flight skincare, anything involving a full lather-rinse-repeat routine is a hard pass. These water-activated cleansing cloths are my mid-air miracle—just add a few drops of water and they whisk away the grime of airplane air, snacks, and seatbelt signs. They’re hydrating, gentle, and yes, they double as a discreet deodorant wipe in a pinch. You didn’t hear it from me. $13
Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist
Seconds before landing, I give myself a spritz of this mist and—voilà—my face goes from flat to fresh. It’s like giving your skin a second wind, minus the turbulence. I stash it in my bag for vacation, too—it’s great before makeup or as a midday refresh. Tip: If you’re in the middle seat, give your neighbors a heads-up (or just lean dramatically to avoid a surprise, shared spa treatment). $49
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Mask
Yes, I’m that person wearing a sheet mask on a plane. And no, I have no regrets. The Ceramidin mask is my go-to when my skin starts to feel tight and cranky at cruising altitude. It's packed with ceramides that lock in hydration and keep skin feeling plush and calm. Bonus: it's great for all skin types, even the temperamental ones. $10
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizing Cream
Humectants are great—until they start pulling moisture out of your skin in dry air. That’s why I always follow with a sealing layer of this rich-yet-breathable moisturizer. It’s nourishing without clogging pores, plays nicely with sensitive skin, and comes in travel sizes that won't trigger TSA side-eyes. $26-$70
Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Lips Healthy Glow Nectar Oil
(Coming June 17, 2025)
Whether I’m flying or just living my daily life, my lips are constantly in need of a hydration intervention. Enter: this luscious, glassy lip oil. It plumps without the sting (hallelujah), and the hydrating formula makes me feel polished even without a lick of makeup. It’s a little luxury with a lot of payoff. $42
Nécessaire The Hand Cream
Airplane bathrooms, hotel sinks, hand sanitizer on repeat—it’s a cuticle crisis waiting to happen. This minimalist hand cream is a travel MVP. It’s fragrance-free, absorbs quickly, and keeps my hands soft without that greasy, “I-can’t-touch-my-phone” feeling. $28
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask
Not technically skincare but trust me—it’s a game-changer. This pure silk mask blocks out light, feels like nothing on your face, and won't leave awkward creases on your skin. Pair it with noise-cancelling headphones and you’ve got the ultimate recipe for in-flight beauty sleep. Sweet dreams at 30,000 feet.
Skincare doesn’t stop when the seatbelt sign goes on. With a few indulgent staples and a little mid-air maintenance, you can step off the plane looking like you just left the spa—not a pressurized metal tube. Bon voyage, glow-getters! ✈️
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