The humidity level inside an aircraft cabin ranges between 10 and 20 percent – that’s drier than the Sahara. This occurs due to the properties of the air, which change significantly at higher altitudes. However, to ensure optimal ventilation of the aircraft cabin, fresh air from the outside has to flow inside. Before entering the cabin, this air is highly compressed to equalize the extremely low air pressure, otherwise guests would absorb too little oxygen. Still it doesn’t reach the same level of pressure as on ground. Low air pressure – or “thin air,” as it’s commonly called – also means that the air can hold less moisture. Although modern aircraft like our new Airbus A350 can now regulate cabin pressure more effectively thanks to innovative fuselage materials, even they cannot reach the 50 percent humidity level recommended for healthy skin. As a result, the skin can lose up to half a liter of water during a long-haul flight. Most passengers have likely experienced the effects: cracked hands, tight facial skin, dry eyes. Frequent travelers know that good hydration is essential.

 

Hydration from the inside and outside

“It’s important to hydrate the skin a few days before your planned trip,” explains dermatologist Malte Schmelter in this article. Applying moisturizer daily helps, he says. Drinking water regularly in the days leading up to the flight is also important. Trying to make up for it only once you’re on board no longer has the same effect on the skin. In that case, Schmelter instead recommends a moisturizing serum with hyaluronic acid. Sisley also recommends applying a rich moisturizing mask before and after the flight.

In SWISS First, guests have access to excellent skincare products that help reduce the impact of dry cabin air on long-haul flights. Four selected products from the French luxury skincare brand Sisley support in-flight skincare:

In addition to their premium skincare benefits, these products have something else in common: they are all based on ingredients of natural origin – Sisley’s signature approach. The keyword here is phytocosmetics.

 

Phytocosmetics: Research inspired by nature

Plants are masters of adaptation. They can independently protect themselves against external factors such as heat, UV radiation, dryness, or cold. Phytocosmetics draws on these natural defense mechanisms and harnesses the power of plants. The plants are carefully selected from controlled organic farming and regions where they develop their most effective properties. Sisley laboratories extract highly concentrated essences from leaves, roots, flowers, or seeds. It often takes several years of research before a Sisley product reaches the market. Sisleÿa, the brand’s most iconic skincare line, required more than ten years of development. The lotion available to our SWISS First guests in the restroom features a highly complex formula combining over 50 natural key ingredients that target multiple mechanisms of skin aging simultaneously.

Every formula is developed and produced in France, in Sisley’s own laboratories just outside Paris. The company also places great emphasis on craftsmanship when it comes to textures. The products are designed not only to be effective, but also to feel light and pleasant on the skin.

 

Experience the world of Sisley

Anyone wishing to experience Sisley outside the aircraft cabin can do so at “Maison Sisley,” the company’s headquarters in Paris. Visitors can immerse themselves fully in the world of the cosmetics brand, try out products on-site, or receive direct treatments and consultations from an experienced beautician.

SWISS First guests benefit from a discount on Sisley products with the discount code included in the amenity kit.