Let’s be honest — flying might be magical, but dry cabin air, constant climate changes, and running on 3 hours of sleep? Not so magical for our skin.
If you’ve ever landed on a layover, looked in the mirror, and whispered “help” to your reflection, this one’s for you. Because what if your layover wasn’t just a break between flights… but your skin’s moment to shine?
Whether you’re a glow-getter cabin crew babe or a travel girlie on the move, here’s your curated guide to the best cities for skincare shopping and treatments while you’re in between time zones. Get ready to restock, refresh, and radiate ✨
🌸 1. Seoul, South Korea
For the skincare lover who wants it all – science, snail mucin, and sheet masks for days.
🛍️ Where to Shop:
- Olive Young – a K-beauty heaven. Think serums, SPFs, and sheet masks under $10.
- Chicor – upscale beauty picks and a Sephora-meets-K-beauty vibe.
- Local gems: Look for brands like Laneige, Cosrx, Isntree, and Beauty of Joseon.
💆 Where to Treat:
- ID Dermatology – clinical but luxurious. Book a quick laser or hydrating facial.
- Skin79 Spa – cozy, friendly, and perfect for an express glow-up.
💡 Local Tip:
Don’t leave without trying snail mucin essence. Sounds weird, works wonders.
🌸 2. Paris, France
For the effortlessly chic crew member who swears by “less but better.”
🛍️ Where to Shop:
- CityPharma (Saint-Germain) – a holy grail. Rows of Bioderma, La Roche-Posay, Caudalie, and more.
- Monoprix Beauty Aisles – surprisingly stacked.
💆 Where to Treat:
- Biologique Recherche Spa – a facial here is a moment. Your skin will thank you.
- Oh My Cream! Studio – modern, minimal, très chic.
💡 Local Tip:
French girls layer thermal water like perfume. Grab a can of Avène mist for in-flight hydration.
🌸 3. Tokyo, Japan
For the glow-getter who’s all about innovation and aesthetics.
🛍️ Where to Shop:
- Don Quijote – chaotic but iconic.
- Shiseido Flagship & Ainz & Tulpe – for elevated, science-backed beauty.
- Look for Biore UV Aqua Rich, cleansing balms, and J-beauty gadgets.
💆 Where to Treat:
- The Peninsula Spa – luxurious and worth it.
- Beauty salons in Harajuku – many offer collagen facials under an hour.
💡 Local Tip:
Their sunscreens? Next level. Stock up — and pack extras for your crew besties.
🌸 4. Bangkok, Thailand
For the budget-friendly queen who still wants that post-facial glow.
🛍️ Where to Shop:
- Boots & Watsons – affordable, stocked with local brands and cult faves.
- Look for Snail White, Mistine, and herbal balms.
💆 Where to Treat:
- Let’s Relax Spa – great packages, affordable luxury.
- Panpuri Wellness – a bit bougie, totally worth it.
- Anywhere really, the streets of Bangkok are filled with great spa and affordable prices.
💡 Local Tip:
Ask for facials with aloe vera or tamarind – soothing, brightening, and perfect post-flight. Try the Herbal Compress Facial or Thai Herbal Ball massage to improve circulation, detoxification and deep relaxation.
🌸 5. Dubai, UAE
For the glam girl who wants her skin as radiant as the skyline.
🛍️ Where to Shop:
- Sephora ME – huge selection of international brands.
- Apotheca Beauty – niche, luxury picks like Dr. Barbara Sturm & Sunday Riley.
- The Face Shop & Korean marts – hidden K-beauty treasures.
💆 Where to Treat:
Dubai is a Spa wonderland, and as crew you're in for a treat - many hotel spas offer exclusive discounts for Emirates and airline staff (20 - 50 % OFF), and all you need is your staff ID! Some of the best spas:
- Talise Spa at Madinat Jumeirah - elegant, beachfront, and huge variety of facials.
- Saray Spa at JW Marriott Marquis - gorgeous hammam area and signature glow facials.
- The Spa at Palazzo Versace - glam setting with holistic treatment.
- Tips & Toes - affordable, fast and crew-friendly.
💡 Local Tip:
Desert climate = dehydrated skin. Go for hyaluronic acid-based treatments and stock up on overnight masks.
🌸 6. New York City, USA
For the skincare maximalist who’s always looking for the next “it” serum.
🛍️ Where to Shop:
- Ricky’s NYC, Sephora, Ulta, Credo Beauty – endless options.
- Indie brands, clean beauty, and cult TikTok favorites everywhere.
💆 Where to Treat:
- Heyday – 50-minute facials that feel like a nap.
- Korean spas in Manhattan or Flushing – go for the full glow-up.
💡 Local Tip:
Pop into Duane Reade or CVS for emergency sheet masks and jade rollers — crew hack 101.
💼 Quick In-Flight Skincare Tips (Because we live in the air):
- Always hydrate: facial mist, hydrating toner, and a water bottle you actually use.
- Lip balm + eye cream = essential.
- Skip foundation mid-flight – let your skin breathe, beauty.
You fly the world — your skin should too.
✈️ Ready to Glow?
Whether you have 12 hours in Seoul or 24 in Paris, there’s always time for a glow-up. Save this post, share it with your crew, and tag us in your favorite layover skincare finds using #LayoverGlow and @thecabincrewplanner!
Because skincare is self-care — and you, darling, are due for a little me time 💋