ensure that you routinely apply sunscreen on airplanes due to these reasons:

Flying can take a toll on your skin, especially for those who spend long hours in the cockpit or are frequently in the air. With planes being drier than the Sahara and UVA radiation penetrating aircraft windows almost unfiltered, it's crucial to take precautions. Here are some recommended sunscreens for your next flight.

The La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Hydrating Cream SPF50 is specifically designed for dry to very dry skin. Its unique formula protects against ultra-long UVA rays, making it an ideal choice for those spending extended periods in the air.

For a sunscreen with a nice herbal scent and a handy pump tube, consider the Trinny London See The Light SPF50+ Moisturiser. This product offers full four-pluses UVA screen, ensuring comprehensive protection against UVA rays.

The Ultra Violette Fave Fluid SPF50+ Ultralight Skinscreen is another great option. With an SPF of 50+, it provides full broad-spectrum protection. Additionally, it contains antioxidant vitamins C, E, and B3, which help mop up free radicals.

If you're looking for a sunscreen that doubles as a sheer-colour-correcting foundation, the Ultrasun Face Fluid Tinted SPF50 is worth considering. It offers the highest level of UVA and blue light protection, making it an excellent choice for those concerned about long-term skin health.

For pilots, the risk of skin damage and skin cancer is significantly higher due to increased UVA exposure. It's recommended to use sunscreens with at least SPF 30, preferably SPF 50, that provide strong UVA protection. The Ultrasun Face Fluid Tinted SPF50 is resistant to breaking down, delivering uncompromising coverage for the duration of your flight.

Cabin crew also face high incidences of melanoma, despite not sitting in a glass-fronted cockpit throughout their flights. A meta-analysis of the risk of melanoma in cabin crew and pilots shows that they suffer double the cases of the deadly skin disease compared to the rest of the population.

Consultant dermatologist Dr Mia Jing Gao urges everyone to wear sunscreen when taking a flight. When choosing an in-flight SPF, look for a high SPF number and the highest level broad-spectrum UVA protection (e.g., five stars or PA+++ UVA protection). Also, consider a sunscreen with a cocktail of anti-oxidants for additional free radical mopping-up.

Remember, the more you fly, the more exposure you build up to UVA radiation. So, protect your skin and enjoy your journey with the right sunscreen by your side.