Skincare Routines for those Working in Aviation

Working in aviation is a high-flying adventure, but it can also be a high-strain gig for your skin. Whether you’re a flight attendant, a mechanic, or a pilot, the unique demands of your job can take a toll on your complexion. Don’t worry, though – you don’t have to touch down with tired, stressed-out skin. Let’s dive into some tailored skincare routines to keep you looking fresh and feeling great, no matter what your role in the aviation industry.

The Flight Attendant: High-Altitude Hydration Hero

Flight attendants are the unsung heroes of the skies, ensuring passengers have a safe and pleasant flight. However, the high-altitude environment can wreak havoc on their skin. Dry cabin air, long hours, and changing time zones demand a skincare routine that’s as versatile as their job.

Morning Routine

1. Gentle Cleanser – Start your day with a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip your skin of essential oils.
2. Hydrating Serum – Apply a serum with hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture.
3. Moisturizer with SPF – Protect your skin from UV rays with a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that includes SPF. Even when you’re inside the plane, UV rays can penetrate windows.

During the Flight

1. Facial Mist – Keep a travel-sized hydrating facial mist in your bag to refresh your skin throughout the flight.
2. Lip Balm – Don’t forget to keep your lips hydrated with a nourishing lip balm.
3. Hand Cream – Frequent hand washing can dry out your skin, so use a rich hand cream regularly.

Evening Routine

1. Cleanser – Use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup and impurities.
2. Toner – Apply a hydrating toner to restore your skin’s pH balance.
3. Night Cream – Finish with a deeply hydrating night cream to help your skin recover overnight.

The Mechanic: Grit and Grime Fighter

Aviation mechanics work hard to keep planes in top shape, often dealing with grease, oil, and harsh environmental conditions. They receive products from the likes of Pilot John International and then they get to action! This hands-on job requires a skincare routine that focuses on deep cleansing and protection.

Morning Routine

1. Exfoliating Cleanser – Use an exfoliating cleanser to remove dirt and dead skin cells. This preps your skin for the day ahead.
2. Protective Moisturizer – While choosing the best moisturizer, look for ingredients like ceramides and antioxidants, which form a barrier against environmental pollutants.

During the Day

1. Sunscreen – If you’re working outside, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
2. Hand Care – Keep your hands clean and moisturized. Use an industrial-strength hand cleaner followed by a hydrating hand lotion.

Evening Routine

1. Deep Cleanser – Use a heavy-duty cleanser to remove all the grime and oil from your skin.
2. Soothing Mask – Apply a soothing face mask once or twice a week to calm and repair your skin.
3. Repair Serum – Use a serum with ingredients like niacinamide to repair skin damage and improve texture.
4. Night Moisturizer – Finish with a rich, repairing night moisturizer.

The Pilot: Calm and Collected Complexion

Pilots often face long hours, fluctuating cabin pressures, and the stress of responsibility. A pilot’s skincare routine needs to be efficient and effective, ensuring their skin remains calm and collected.

Morning Routine

1. Refreshing Cleanser – Start with a refreshing, gentle cleanser to wake up your skin.
2. Antioxidant Serum – Apply a serum rich in antioxidants like vitamin C to protect against environmental damage.
3. Light Moisturizer – Use a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that absorbs quickly.
4. SPF – Never skip the sunscreen. Choose a formula that doesn’t leave a white cast and provides broad-spectrum protection.

During the Day

1. Hydrating Mist – A quick spritz of hydrating mist can keep your skin feeling fresh.
2. Lip Care – Keep your lips from drying out with a good lip balm.

Evening Routine

1. Gentle Cleanser – Cleanse your face with a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
2. Toner – Use a soothing toner to remove any residual impurities.
3. Anti-Aging Serum – Apply an anti-aging serum to keep your skin looking youthful and vibrant.
4. Rich Moisturizer – End your day with a rich moisturizer to nourish your skin overnight.

Quick Tips for All Aviation Professionals

• Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
• Get Enough Sleep – Adequate rest is crucial for skin regeneration. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even when crossing time zones.
• Eat a Balanced Diet – A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can improve your skin’s health and appearance.
• Avoid Excessive Caffeine and Alcohol – Both can dehydrate your skin, so consume them in moderation.

Must-Have Products for Your Aviation Skincare Kit

Cleanser

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser – Ideal for all skin types, this cleanser helps restore your skin’s natural barrier.

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser – Perfect for sensitive skin, it removes dirt without irritation.

Moisturizer

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – A lightweight, hydrating formula suitable for daily use.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer – Provides long-lasting hydration and skin barrier protection.

Sunscreen

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 – Great for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 – A weightless, scentless formula that’s perfect for daily use.

Lip Balm

Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm – A natural option that provides long-lasting moisture.

Aquaphor Lip Repair – For extremely dry lips, this is a go-to solution.

Final Thoughts

No matter your role in the aviation industry, taking care of your skin is crucial. The unique challenges of working in aviation – from dry cabin air to exposure to the elements – require a dedicated skincare routine. By following these tips and incorporating the right products, like using a skincare fridge to keep your products cool, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and ready for whatever your job throws at you.