Air travel is incredibly drying.
Between the increase in Vata and the plane's re-circulated air, you can end up with dehydrated skin, some water-retention and a few break outs.
For those of you who haven't heard the Hol-Van credo: dehydration is a factor in almost every skin problem. So, treat this and you'll be on your way to flawless skin.
Here are tips for globetrotters to keep their skin comfortable, clear and gorgeous.
1. Oil yourself from head to toe.
The most important thing to do is oil your body down. Since Vata is increased, sesame oil is best as it promotes circulation, is warming and is rich in texture.
And, when we say oil yourself from head to toe, we mean it - every inch of it. From the scalp to the soles of the feet. We even apply a rich cream mask over top of a face oil (one that looks like a moisturizer so you cannot see it).
While you may look like a grease ball, your skin will thank you. And if you breakout on long flights, this can be a gamechanger for preventing that.
2. Take a ginger bath.
A ginger bath before and after the flight is ideal. Not only will it nourish your body and support your immune system, but it will increase your circulation (and remember that flying impedes circulation making us puff out and swell).
You do this with 1 part ginger powder and 1 part baking soda - usually use a cup of each.
Taking ginger capsules also helps to prevent jet lag as it pacifies Vata.
3. Wear pressure socks.
Pressure socks are great for flights as they will prevent edema (swelling). We like them even around the city as they help prevent varicose and spider veins.
They come in a variety of colours and materials...even some sexy stockings dare we say?
4. Take oils internally
Taking omega fatty acids can help a lot in preventing dryness and with bowel regulation. You can take fish oils, flax oil, evening primrose etc. depending on the contingencies of your own body.
Here again, we recommend taking more before a flight than you would on a daily basis. Consult your medical provider for guidance.
5. Stay away from drying foods.
When travelling, stay away from Vata aggravating foods. These foods will only dry out your intestines, which will not only dry out your skin, but possibly constipate you and make you feel bloated.
So, anything dry is off-limits: crackers, dried fruit, bread, dense meat (avoid meat in general if you can), anything that depletes water in our bodies instead of hydrating it.
You may find this difficult because we used to like to travel with granola bars or dry-fruit bars as they are portable and convenient, but now we only pack fruits and veggies as they are full of cellular water.
Cooked foods are better for pacifying Vata, but good luck sneaking a pot of stew past security.
We suggest a nice warm bowl of moistened oatmeal the morning you leave, and a nice hydrating soup when you land.
Image by Kao Taru via Unsplash