Use a hydrating face mask the day before you leave, or even that morning. When you arrive, jump into the bath wearing another face mask. The secret is to stop dry skin before it becomes a problem.
Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream - apply before boarding, it is greasy but by the end of a long flight, your skin will not dehydrate like it would have otherwise. This cream is fantastic and has a huge following as it is not gimmicky and delivers results.
Rose water is could as a facial spray.
Also Guerlain Midnight Secret - apply once in the air and this will ensure skin is plump, moist and fresh looking when landing.
The reason you get airplane skin is because of the dirty, recycled oxygen right? Well, why not buy an oxygen spray like Tali o2 evolution oxygen therapy facial spray. This product is actually aimed at frequent fliers, you can purchase the product at adorebeauty.com.au
All you do is hold the canister about 15-20cm away from your face, and spray it all around. It instantly hydrates, softens and refreshes your skin, removing that dull, sallow look. Also, remember to drink a lot of water!
Pick up a free sample of a leading face mask at the beauty counter when you pass by (favorite is La Prairie- its colorless). Its small so it will get around the airline restrictions, cheap, and easy to carry in your handbag. Clean and exfoliate your face before you leave your house, once you are in your seat use a face wipe to clean off any airport grime and apply the face mask. Leave on for the entire flight, drink a lot of water, wrap yourself up in a pashmia to stay cosy and get some sleep. Wipe off the face mask on arrival and you have had a great facial.
If traveling long haul, spray evian face spray. Then apply a mositure mask or night face cream. Cover your face in product, for the journey. Wipe off before you land, with face wipes. May look a bit silly but who cares when your on a plane for 12 hours!
Drink water water water and don't touch alcohol. Smother your face in eight hour cream or vaseline. If your budget strtches to it the SK-11 masks are fabulous. You look like Hannibel Lecter but you will look like a super model when you get off; pop on your eyeshades and sleep.
Buy 'This Works- survive box or travel box', £25 to £35, but these boxes are packed with miniature life savers on long haul flights (natural calming and feshening sprays, turbo balm, moisturisers etc) well worth buying.