How to Reboot Your Skin After a Long-Haul Flight

Arrive glowing, not grey

Long-haul travel can be magical — until you catch a glimpse of your skin post-flight. Between recycled air, dehydration, and hours of screen exposure, it’s no wonder we land looking more jet-lagged than jet-set.

At Rêve de Rive, we design for women in motion — and that includes skincare rituals that travel as well as you do. Here’s how to give your skin a first-class reset the moment you land.

1. Start Before You Board
Great post-flight skin begins in-flight. Hydrate often, skip the wine, and prep your skin with a barrier-focused routine before takeoff.

In-flight pre-glow essentials:

• A thick moisturiser or overnight mask
• Lip balm
• Hydrating mist (keep it fragrance-free)
• SPF, even for window seats

2. Cleanse Gently, Thoroughly
As soon as you arrive, the first step is a deep, gentle cleanse to remove plane grime, sunscreen, and cabin air residue.

What to use:

• A non-stripping gel or cream cleanser
• Micellar water as a first step if you wore makeup
• Lukewarm water — never hot

3. Layer Moisture Strategically
Post-flight skin is often parched and dull. Layer light to rich textures to replenish moisture without overwhelming your skin.

Your reboot trio:

• Hydrating toner or mist
• Hyaluronic acid serum
• Ceramide-rich cream or a nourishing facial oil

4. Reduce Puffiness Naturally
Flying often leads to puffiness — especially around the eyes and jawline. Cold therapy and lymphatic movement can help.

Try:

• Chilled spoons or a jade roller from the mini-fridge
• A gentle face massage (focusing from centre to edges)
• Elevating your head slightly when resting

5. Let Your Skin Breathe
Post-flight isn’t the time for a full face of makeup. Instead, lean into the fresh-faced look with minimal coverage and a radiant finish.

Use:

• A skin tint or light concealer
• A balm blush
• Illuminating cream for a subtle, healthy sheen

Bonus: Body Care Counts Too
Your face isn’t the only thing that needs revival. Cabin air dries out everything — including your limbs.

Body glow essentials:

• Dry brushing post-shower to boost circulation
• A rich body oil or cream
• Hydration from the inside: water + fresh fruit

The luxury is in the recovery. Rebooting your skin after travel is less about damage control, and more about returning to yourself. Just like Rêve de Rive pieces — it’s about feeling confident, nourished, and effortlessly ready for whatever’s next.