Julie’s Guide to Surviving a Long Flight
Between traveling for work and pleasure, I fly a lot. And if I’ve learned anything from my voyages, it’s that drinking copious amounts of water is my long-haul survival strategy. Between the moment I leave home to catch a ride to the airport to the time I touch down at my destination, I will have consumed four liters of bottled water. And let me tell you—that takes focus and commitment, especially considering I also like to sleep on planes. But water is essential to combat the filtered air and (potential) adult beverage you might consume. It also forces you to get up regularly, which is necessary for circulation.
Not surprisingly, I'm ritualistic about flying and I always have my skin care essentials, supplements, and a few tried-and-true practices that contribute to preserving my skin and overall health. Here’s my routine…
I follow this regimen religiously on long-haul flights—it helps with circulation, ensures that my skin is hydrated and glowing upon landing, and distracts me from the unsavory scents that can haunt an airplane.
1
Before leaving for the airport, I drink one liter of water and apply Firmante Elevating Leg Tonic, which targets circulatory stagnation and encourages blood and lymphatic flow. And I take a dose of 20 drops of Lâche-Lymphe in a small amount of water to boost circulation.
2
I forgo makeup and protect my skin from stale, dehydrating plane air. First, I apply a generous layer Fleur Vibrante Serum Cerate to my face, neck, and décolleté. It nourishes and fortifies the lipid barrier with antioxidants like lycopene. It’s also high in beta-carotene, which helps to address the effects of pollution, making it a continuing must if you’re headed somewhere like Paris or Tokyo. I will apply as needed throughout the flight.
3
Next, I apply Veloutée Complexe to my lips, lip line, and eye contour. These areas tend to show signs of stress and dehydration first, so adding an extra layer of protection and hydration is essential. This targeted serum treatment contains plant extracts and signaling peptides that help capture water and strengthen skin.
4
Then, I apply our long-lasting moisture-rich eye cream, Vis Clair Suprême.I bring all three of these essentials on board because whether a 5, 10, or 15-hour flight you'll want to boost throughout.
5
I frequently mist throughout the flight, alternating between Vitale that I decant into a one once bottle and an Evian travel mister. I usually purchase one of these at the airport and two liters of water.
6
Airplane air is gross. Some people bring essential oils on flights to assist with relaxation, breathing, and stress. I carry two of the In Fiore Essences - my go-tos are Tangiers and Kashmir.
I always taking supplements and tinctures to support my body and immune system, that includes Adapt'Âscend and Immun'Attune. And another key to preventing sickness on long flights (besides hydration) is Xlear Sinus Care (a hypertonic solution that draws moisture in to maximize dryness relief). It gently flushes airborne particles from your sinuses and soothes and hydrates your nasal passages. My eyes are sensitive, so to prevent that gritty dryness, I bring homeopathic eye care—one of my favorites is VISMED, which is an emollient with hyaluronic acid.
Airplane food can make me feel bloated and tired upon landing, so I navigate the in-flight dining menu as carefully as possible, or better yet, I will fast during the flight. Otherwise, the amount of fluids I consume help control cravings, and I always bring snacks such as protein, macadamias, and olives. Fortunately, airports and airlines are stepping up their game on the healthful options front. The more you steer clear of alcohol, sugar, and carbs, the better you will look and feel by the time you reach your destination.
Speaking of your destination—get thee to the bath once you arrive. A long soak, preferably with two cups of sea salt and baking soda, will detox and revive your travel-weary body, and help you ward off your jet lag. Follow with another dose of Lâche-Lymphe, Adapt'Âscend, Firmante Leg Tonic, and a liter of water, and you'll be good to go for that appearance you need to make, whether an event, dinner, or both.