Airport-Friendly Skincare Routines That Work
Traveling is hard on your skin—and navigating TSA guidelines while trying to keep your glow intact? Even harder. Between recycled airplane air, fluctuating temperatures, and limited space, your skin needs a little extra love when you're on the move.
At Pure Skin Wellness Spa, we believe healthy, radiant skin should travel with you. That’s why we’ve created this expert-approved, minimalist routine to keep your skin calm, hydrated, and refreshed—whether you’re hopping on a red-eye or powering through a long layover.
✈️ The TSA Rule (and How to Work Around It)
You’re allowed to carry liquids, gels, and creams in containers 3.4 oz (100 mL) or smaller, all packed into a single clear, quart-sized bag. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your skincare standards.
Pro Tip: Transfer your favorite products into TSA-sized refillable containers—or grab professional-grade travel kits from our spa next time you’re in. We have travel kits from Eminence Organics, Epicutis, and Coola!
Your In-Flight + Layover Skincare Routine
Step 1: Gentle Cleanse or Refresh
Start your flight with a clean face. Use a gentle gel or cream cleanser before boarding to remove makeup, sweat, and grime.
On-the-go option: Pack Clean Skin wipes for a quick and gentle cleanse on the go.
Step 2: Hydrating Mist
Airplane cabins have less than 20% humidity—this zaps moisture from your skin fast! A spritz of a hydrating facial mist gives instant relief without disturbing your makeup (or your seatmate).
On-the-go option: The Hydrobiome Mist by Epicutis is 1.7 oz and TSA-friendly!
Step 3: Serum Support
If your skin leans dry or reactive, layer a TSA-sized hyaluronic acid or antioxidant serum to help your skin hold onto moisture and fight off free radical damage from air pollution and stress.
Pure Tip: Choose serums with a light consistency—anything too rich may feel heavy in a dry, pressurized cabin.
On-the-go option: The Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic serum by Eminence Organics smells dreamy and at 1 oz is TSA-approved!
Step 4: Moisturize + Seal
Apply a lightweight, nourishing moisturizer before takeoff and reapply during long flights or after cleansing. This helps support your skin barrier and lock in hydration.
On-the-go option: The Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator by Eminence Organics applies smoothly, is deeply nourishing, and at 1.2 oz is TSA-friendly!
Optional: For long-haul or overnight flights, layer a thin hydrating mask as your moisturizer. No rinse needed! The Epicutis Lipid Recovery Mask is our favorite on-the-go option.
Step 5: Protect with SPF
Yes—even if you’re inside a plane. UV rays are stronger at higher altitudes and can penetrate through airplane windows. Choose a non-greasy, mineral sunscreen if you have a window seat or if your layover includes outdoor exposure.
On-the-go option: Sun Defense Minerals by Eminence Organics is our favorite, favorite way to easily reapply SPF throughout the day! Bonus, this mineral sunscreen is powder-based and TSA friendly!
Bonus Add-Ons (If You Have the Space)
Under-eye gels or patches — A treat during red-eyes or layovers to reduce puffiness.
Lip balm — A must-have. Cabin air dries lips quickly.
Silk sleep mask — Blocks out light and reduces eye creases during naps.
Electrolyte packets — Support internal hydration to keep your skin from drying out from the inside out.
What to Leave Behind
Harsh exfoliants or retinol
Overly scented products
Heavy oils or occlusives
Full routines with 7+ steps
Save those for when you're back home or in a stable climate. Your travel routine should be light, supportive, and barrier-focused.
Before You Fly, Visit PURE
We recommend prepping your skin with a HydraFacial or a Pure Therapeutic Massage before long travel days—and coming in for recovery care post-trip.
Ready to glow through TSA?
Stop in and let us help you curate your own airport-friendly routine—expert-backed, wellness-infused, and carry-on approved.
Pure Skin Wellness Spa
Glow wherever life takes you.
PURE Skin Wellness Spa
(360)336-6161
pureskinwellnessspa.com
419 S. 2nd St., Mount Vernon, WA
