Dehydration

Many people suffer from dehydration on a flight. This is hardly surprising when you consider that the cabin air on long-distance, high-altitude flights is often at a low humidity of 10%, and in many cases approaching 1%. This is in fact drier than the Sahara desert (at 25%) and much drier than the optimum humidity comfort level of 50%.

Not only will this low humidity give you itchy and bloodshot eyes, dry and wrinkled skin and make you feel thirsty, but the drying of the mucus in your nose and mouth (which normally acts as a protective barrier to germs) will make you more susceptible to illnesses.

To prevent dehydration:

• Bring your own large bottle of water - don't rely on getting enough water on the flight.
• Drink water as regularly as possible throughout the flight.
• Avoid alcohol, tea and coffee - they act diuretics and will make you even more dehydrated.
• If the air feels very dry to breathe, cover your nose with a water-saturated cotton handkerchief.
• Apply a little almond, olive or jojoba on the inside of your nostrils to help minimize the risk of catching germs.
• Spritz your face with water and apply moisturiser regularly to reinvigorate your skin.
• On arrival at your destination, go for a swim or take a bath - anything that will submerge you completely in water. Not only will this help to relax you, but you will be able to replenish moisture right through your pores.
• Make sure you drink plenty of water for several days after landing.