If you’re flying this summer, then you could be missing a crucial step – and your bank balance and skin may pay the price. Whilst we’re focused on our passports and luggage when we step on a plane, many of us forget about ourselves. According to Cult Beauty and skincare expert Elizabeth Japal from The Derma Lab, people should always ensure that they wear SPF with those in the know stressing that this is an “essential” whether on holiday, back in the UK or on board a plane.

Elizabeth has stressed this is especially true if you sit at the window rather than the aisle seat, saying: “Many people don’t realise that UV exposure actually increases at altitude, and airplane windows don’t block out all UVA rays, which are the primary cause of premature skin ageing. You’re essentially sitting next to a magnified sun bed, especially in the window seat.”

This combined with the low humidity in cabin air causes your skin to become more vulnerable to dehydration, dullness and damage even on short flights. “It’s not just about how you look stepping off the plane, regular exposure to this kind of environment can really take a toll on skin health over time,” she said.

Urging people to prep before they step foot in the airport, Elizabeth says that this applies to everyone, whether you are flying short or long-haul. And yes, you still need to wear SPF even if it’s cloudy and grey.

Elizabeth’s checklist 

1. Do this before you fly

In her number one rule, she urges people to cleanse before flying. “Starting with clean skin is essential. Your face will already be exposed to the drying effects of cabin air – leftover makeup, SPF, or pollution will only clog pores and contribute to inflammation.”

2. Hydrating Mist

Both before and during the flight, you should sprit some mist on your face for hydration. The recycled air on planes can sap your skin of moisture within minutes. Doing this throughout the flight helps prevent dehydration and delivers an instant glow.

3. Hydrating Serum

“Serums are your skin’s drink of water. Layering a serum underneath your moisturiser maximises hydration while boosting antioxidant protection”, explains Elizabeth. Try opting for a travel-friendly option that is packed with niacinamide and vitamins C and E. It brightens the complexion, calms inflammation and shields against oxidative stress – perfect for fending off free radicals during flights.

4. Moisturise and SPF

Yep, even indoors you should use SPF. 2People assume SPF is not needed on a plane, but UVA rays penetrate clouds and glass – and they’re the aging ones,” says Elizabeth.

5. Pack these

Pack essentials in your clear bag for top-ups such as:

• Face Mist

• Lip Balm

• Hand Cream

• SPF Touch-Up

6. After Landing

When you have landed at your destination, take the time to pip on a calming serum followed by a barrier-restoring moisturiser. And of course, always reapply SPF before stepping out into the sun. You can do this whilst you wait to embark the plane. “Your post-flight skin ritual is just as important – it resets and supports your skin as you move into a new climate or time zone,” Elizabeth advises.