Flying this summer? Skincare experts are sounding the alarm on a lesser-known travel risk: increased UV exposure at altitude. According to Elizabeth Japal, a skincare specialist from The Derma Lab, partnered with Cult Beauty, passengers are vulnerable to harmful UVA rays even inside an aircraft, making SPF a critical part of any travel routine.

“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,” Elizabeth explains. “You’re essentially sitting next to a magnified sun bed, especially in the window seat.” Combined with the cabin’s low humidity, which dehydrates skin and heightens vulnerability to damage, even short flights can take a toll. “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 adds.

The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority notes that at 30,000 feet, UV radiation levels can be significantly higher than on the ground, as the atmosphere offers less protection. A 2015 study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that pilots and cabin crew face UV exposure comparable to tanning bed sessions, underscoring the need for protection during flights. For passengers, particularly those in window seats, the risk is real, though less intense.

To help travellers protect their skin, Elizabeth shares a flight-ready skincare routine suitable for both short and long-haul journeys. Here’s her step-by-step guide:

Skincare routine for healthy skin during air travel

• Cleanse before flying: “Starting with clean skin is essential,” says Elizabeth. “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.” She recommends Jordan Samuel Skin The Matinee Gel Cleanser, with green tea and chamomile to calm and balance skin.
• Hydrating mist pre-flight and mid-flight: Cabin air saps moisture quickly. Elizabeth suggests Zelens Provitamin D3 Fortifying Mist, which strengthens the skin barrier with antioxidants and provitamin D3, offering a refreshing boost mid-flight.
• Hydrating serum: “Serums are your skin’s drink of water,” Elizabeth explains. “Layering a serum underneath your moisturiser maximises hydration while boosting antioxidant protection.” Decree Perfect Elixir Serum, with niacinamide and vitamins C and E, brightens and shields against oxidative stress.
• Moisturise and SPF: “People assume SPF isn’t needed on a plane, but UVA rays penetrate clouds and glass – and they’re the aging ones,” says Elizabeth. Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50+ doubles as a moisturiser and broad-spectrum sun protection, absorbing easily without pilling.
• Onboard top-ups: Pack a face mist like Odacité Hydra Mist Vitalize Rose + Neroli to revive skin, LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask for soft lips, Grown Alchemist Restorative Hand Cream for hydrated hands, and Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF50 Reapplication Mist for weightless SPF touch-ups. “It’s designed to go over makeup or bare skin, so you can stay protected without mess,” Elizabeth notes.
• Post-flight recovery: After landing, cleanse to remove grime, then apply Paula’s Choice Calm Repairing Serum to reduce redness, followed by a barrier-restoring moisturiser and SPF. “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.

Experts also highlight that UV risks are not limited to flights. The British Association of Dermatologists recommends daily SPF use, as UVA rays penetrate clouds and glass year-round. For frequent flyers, cumulative exposure could accelerate skin ageing and increase skin cancer risk, making Elizabeth’s routine a practical safeguard.

With summer travel in full swing, incorporating SPF into your carry-on could be as crucial as your passport. By following these expert tips, travellers can land with healthier, glowing skin, ready to enjoy their destination.