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How to feel Refreshed and Look Cute After a 12h Flight

How to feel Refreshed and Look Cute After a 12h Flight

Long flights can do a number on your skin, just find me in an airport after a transatlantic flight and I’ll show you what I mean. Several hours in a confined cabin with low oxygen levels and more-than-enough germs will dehydrate the hell out of you, leaving you with puffy eyes and a tired, dull complexion. But don’t worry, I have some tips to help you fight the dehydration and fatigue that come with flying so that you can land feeling fresh and ready to take on the day.

Ole Henriksen Truth on the Glow cleansing cloths – $ 8

Travel usually consists of riding in strange Ubers, rushing through crowded airports, and sitting way too close to other passengers. This is why the first step in my in-flight beauty routine is cleansing. The Ole Henriksen Truth on the Glow cleansing cloths will cleanse your skin and keep you hydrated, allowing you to start with a clean slate before you get to the fun part of the routine.

Dr. Jart’s Hydration Lover Rubber Mask – $12.00

Sheet masks are great for hydrating while flying because they’re easy to throw in your carry-on, and you can apply them right in your seat. For a boost of hydration, Dr. Jart’s Moisture Lover mask is a fun way to bring life back into your skin while simultaneously scaring your seatmates. First, apply the contents of the ampoule pack to your face, then seal everything in by overlapping the two parts of the rubber mask. Leave on for 30-40 minutes, then rub in the remaining gel from the ampoule and enjoy your newly moisturized skin.

Patchology’s Flash Patch Eye Gels – $ 15 for 5 pairs

Paris Hilton and I have two things in common: we love a good foam dance party in Ibiza, and we don’t travel without Patchology’s Flash Patch eye gels. Undereye patches are vital for your in-flight beauty routine since they’ll hydrate your skin while fighting off puffiness and dark circles. Patchology even has a travel kit consisting of two sheet masks, undereye gels, and a lip gel to set you up for success for your post-flight activities, which may or may not involve a foam dance party in Ibiza. I don’t judge.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream – $ 22

The Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is a classic and versatile cream, making it the perfect moisturizer to bring on a long flight. It will seal in moisture for hours so apply it anywhere you need a boost of hydration. Whether you’re nursing a sunburn after a trip, or just want a reliable product, don’t board your flight without it.

P.S.: You can get the duty free lip protector at any airport-  and I swear you will never use any other balm.

RMS Beauty Lip2Cheek – $ 36

I never wear makeup on long flights. It just smudges and smears and contributes to me looking like a hot mess. Instead, I pack multipurpose products like the RMS Beauty Lip2Cheek to apply once I’m off the plane. The flush of color on my lips and cheeks make me feel alive again, even when I’m exhausted from the jet lag.

Bumble and Bumble’s Prêt-à-powder – $ 28

Our skin isn’t the only thing that suffers on a long flight, which is why I bring a good dry shampoo powder while traveling to put some life back into my hair. Bumble and Bumble’s Prêt-à-powder will perk up your hair and absorb oil without leaving any white residue, so you won’t look like your head was just wedged uncomfortably between the seat and window in an attempt to get some rest.

It’s important to remember that these products alone won’t save your skin. To prevent a long flight from wreaking havoc on your face (and body!) skip the carbonated beverages and alcohol and opt for water instead. I know it can be hard to say no to a salty snack, but those airline pretzels will only contribute to the dehydration. A good flight for me involves a moisturizing mask, light stretching in the aisles, and trying to sneak into first class à la Kristen Wiig in Bridesmaids. Okay, I’d be lying if I said I skipped the pretzels but it’s a journey and I’m getting there. Bon voyage!

by Clare Saxton
Cover Picture: Face Mask by Mario Testino
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