Holidaymakers have been warned to avoid hot showers after plane flights. It sounds unusual, as usually after a long journey most of us want to wash off all the grimness of travel, and other people’s germs, and relax our muscles with a bath or shower.

But, a frequent flyer has wanted travellers not to turn the temperature up too high after a flight. Instead they believe that holidaymakers should have a cool shower or bath rather than a steamy, warm one.

You might be loathe to swap your hot shower for a cold one though – not least because planes can be filthy and aren’t cleaned as often as you think. Plus, when travelling you’ve also touched grotty taxis, germ-riddled escalators and sat listening to other people sneeze on board.

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Travys Carinci, customer service manager for Qantas, claims that doing so is better for your health though. He flies around 60,000 miles a month in his job role so he really knows what he’s talking about.

He explained to CN Traveller: "I skip overly hot showers which, even though it is tempting after a long flight, is a surefire way to dry out your skin." Hot showers can also irritate skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis.

But, Chartered Scientist and founder of SOS Serum Skincare range, Bruce Green, insists that you should still wash after a flight where possible. He told Daily Star: "Airplanes have their own microbiome, which is mostly made of human skin as we’re constantly shedding and sitting on a plane for quite some time. Although planes are cleaned for us to use, studies have shown bacteria and viruses can live on armrests, seat belts, window shades, tray tables, toilet handles, and more for days.

"If you do happen to pick up bacteria or fungi that’s not your own, this may lead to itchiness and bumps on the skin and scalp. If you don't shower after your flight you may end up depositing germs that aren't your own into your new space; particularly your bed.

"But showering with soap, and shampoo for the hair, removes any of the germs you may have picked up, as well as reduces the levels of your own that have grown over time."

To keep your skin healthy while travelling, professional Liberty Mills claims you should, however, avoid showering directly before a flight. She told the Daily Star: "Showering before taking a flight is generally not recommended due to several factors that can affect the comfort and well-being of passengers during the flight.

"While there is no strict rule against showering before flying, it is important to consider the potential consequences and make an informed decision based on personal circumstances. One of the main reasons why showering before a flight is discouraged is the effect it can have on the body's natural oils and moisture balance. Showering with hot water and using soap can strip away the natural oils that help keep the skin moisturised.

"This can lead to dryness and dehydration, which can be exacerbated by the low humidity levels in airplane cabins. The dry air in the cabin can further dehydrate the skin, causing discomfort and potentially leading to issues such as itching or irritation."

So skip the pre-flight shower – unless you smell of course – and then opt for a cool wash when you get back down to earth. Your skin will thank you!

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