How To Repair Your Dehydrated Skin After Flying

The holiday season means spending time with family, and in the case of people like me, it usually means flying as well. As an East Coast resident originally from the Midwest, I have to take at least two flights to get home for the holidays. I never look my best right when I get off a plane, but my skin really takes the toll. I always wonder how to rehydrate my skin after flying, and I know I'm not the only one.

Model Soo Joo Park recently made waves when she told The Cut about this physics trick. If you drink a plastic water bottle while flying, it'll basically collapse when you land. The moral of the story? Planes are majorly dehydrating to skin.

On days I'm flying, I basically plan my entire skincare routine around the dehydrating effects of the plane. Extra moisturizer? Check. Light makeup application? Check. No mascara? Double check. If I'm going to get my beauty rest using my sleep mask, there's no way I want mascara on my eyes. I've got my plane routine down pat, but I wondered if there was a way to speed up the recovery process when I landed. How could I ensure that my skin bounced back and looked better than before my flight? Turns out, you just need to follow these steps.

1. Drink Water Before, During & After

Thermos Vacuum Insulated Hydration Bottle, $25, Target

The key to avoiding puffy skin is to drink water the entire day you have a flight. Not only will it help your skin stay looking great, but it'll cut down on bloating and reduce flight-induced headaches.

2. Drink A Matcha Latte When You Land

Skincare expert January Olds told Byrdie she swears by matcha lattes, which will energize you without dehydrating you like coffee or tea would. If you need a boost when you land, reach for that.

3. Eat Water-Rich Foods

As tempting as the plates of appetizers at holiday parties can be, salty foods are known for their dehydrating properties. By no means skip out on your favorite snacks, but try to offset it by hitting up the crudite platter for water-rich cucumber and celery.

4. Try Not To Overdo It On The Booze

Yes, it's the holidays and yes, it's hard to say no. But alcohol is just going to dehydrate you more. My tip? Stick to clear liquids like vodka or gin, and mix it with soda or water. I always avoid heavy drinks like dark liquors or red wine, because I know they only exacerbate flying-induced headaches.

5. Wear A Hydrating Sheet Mask

Water Replenishment Cotton Sheet Mask, $8, Birchbox

This cult-favorite Korean beauty product will save you if your skin is looking dull and hydrate your skin in less than a half hour. I like this one by Dr. Jart+.

6. Use A Brightening Peel

Murad Intensive-C Radiance Peel, $55, Sephora

Peels always sound scarier than they actually are — I swear they don't hurt at all, and they majorly brighten your face. I swear by this Murad Intensive-C Radiance Peel for brighter skin.

7. Sleep With A Humidifier

Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier, $31, Target

Yes, it's a little old school, but I love my humidifier for its hydrating properties. The best part? You don't actually have to do anything.

Flying will never be easy on your skin, but with these tips, you can bounce back quickly.

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Images: Negative Space/Unsplash; Soon Koon, Stacy Spensley, donireewalker/Flickr, Courtesy of Brands