From lack of sleep, UV damage and pollution to temperature changes, cabin pressure and air conditioning, flying can take a toll on the skin.

So what actually happens to the skin when you fly?

First of all, it’s interesting to note that the skin works at it’s optimum when the humidity is around that of the average outdoor climate – between 40% and 70%. Humidity levels on a flight are at maximum 10%. This leaves the barrier function of the skin weak and makes the skin dry. If you’re travelling long-haul, the skin’s barrier can become completely unbalanced, confusing your biological clock and cause disruption to the skin’s regeneration process. Your skin retains less water too, becoming dehydrated and slower to recover from aggressors meaning the appearance of fatigue, fine lines and dullness are more pronounced, making room for a loss of plumpness, redness and sensitivity.

So what’s the ideal skincare routine to keep your skin hydrated before, during and after flying? According to Vichy, the secret lies in making sure your skincare routine is able to respond to three of your skin’s key needs: hydration, comfort and resistance.

Step one: reinforce the skin before boarding and protect the barrier of the skin to minimise water loss by hydrating the skin before you board.

Step two: stay hydrated on your flight. The Aerospace Medical Association recommends drinking one litre of water for every three hours of flight time. Boost the skin’s circulation by massaging an ice cube under the eyes and cheeks, which will also stave off puffiness. Hey, it’s less embarrassing than a sheet mask.