Here at your-hols.com, we tend to get off a flight looking as though we’ve been dragged through a hedge backwards. So this list of grooming tips from the immaculate looking boys and girls who staff the cabin on Emirates flights are more than welcome.
1. What is the one tip passed onto all cabin crew in training?
We recommend that cabin crew follow a skin-care routine that helps them deal with the different hours that they work. Exfoliation and masks are highly recommended as it helps to enhance the appearance of the skin.
2. How are crew members trained to look so well groomed, even after a 15-hour flight?
They have to touch up their make-up throughout the flight; we give them tips such as: eye gel helps to refresh the eyes during a long flight and can be used over make-up. Also, it helps to remove all make up and apply a vitamin C mask during their rest periods as it boosts the skin cells and gives the skin a healthy glow.
3. Dehydration can be a big problem when flying – how do crew stay hydrated?
Hydration sprays can be used to maintain the moisture balance in the skin. You can either purchase from a skin care or make-up house.
4. How do female crew members manage to keep their make-up looking fresh for so many hours?
They are trained by subject matter experts on a recommended sequence to follow. This starts from using the correct skin-care products to a specific make-up routine. They use a powder over their foundation that helps to ‘set’ the make-up to make it last longer; they also re-apply their foundation/powder as well as blusher throughout the flight. Blusher plays a big part in helping the skin look fresh as it gives the impression/illusion of a healthy glow even during long flights. When foundation and powder is applied on to the lip, under the lipstick it will last longer as well. The use of lip gloss or lipstick that contains gloss is not recommended, as this could cause the lipstick to wear off easily.
5. Is concealer a much-used product to disguise potential dark circles and tired eyes?
Concealer is highly recommended for dark circles, however when applied you need to have the correct colour in order for the circles not to appear darker. A product with light reflectors in is extremely good for this and works better than a normal concealer. Concealer can also be used to cover pigmentation as well as pimples. This is also the only item of make-up acceptable to be used by gentlemen.
6. Are there any no no’s when it comes to grooming and make-up?
The “rules” of make-up that we normally teach the cabin crew are:
* Your foundation needs to be as close to your natural skin colour as possible in order for your skin to appear even.
* Do not use lip gloss over lipstick as the colour wears off quicker and the gloss can change the pigment in the lipstick giving it a different colour.
* Be careful of using bronzer as it can make the skin appear “tired” especially in aircraft lighting.
* Be mindful when choosing mascara, as waterproof mascara tend to dry out lashes when used over long periods and for long hours at a time.
* Do not draw your lip pencil outside of your lip line.
* Using eye-liner on the top lid, will give the appearance of more open, larger eyes, for those ultra long trips.
7. Are men advised to wear moisturiser or are there any particular grooming requisites for men – other than spotless hands and nails?
Yes absolutely. Men have their own skin care and shaving routine. It is important that they also look after their skin especially because they have to shave before each flight. Shaving can irritate the skin and cause dryness. therefore we give them certain tips regarding shaving: a shaving oil can be used prior to shaving to help soften the hairs and moisturise the area, preventing skin irritation and dryness. They can use a shaving brush to apply the shaving gel/foam as it acts as a natural exfoliator and helps with ingrown hairs.
8. What are the three most important things that every member of crew should remember or consider when it comes to grooming?
* They are the forefront of the airline and the uniform identity is the direct link to our brand.
* They are the public face of Emirates and are recognised by our customers and also the customers of other airlines.
* They only have one opportunity to make a good first impression.
9. What are the post-flight tips?
Rest is definitely recommended as it helps with cell renewal/rejuvenation which helps our skin to repair itself and look immaculate. They are recommended to stick to a skin care routine and always remove their make-up after a flight. It depends on the needs of the skin at the time: a face mask and eye mask can be applied. When in highly polluted areas we also recommend them to exfoliate and apply a Vitamin C mask to the skin. Anti-Oxidants are also recommended – these products contain Vitamin A, C and E.
10. What tips do you have for regular flyers?
* Avoid make-up during the flight, if make-up is a must use a light concealer/tinted moisturiser, a bit of mascara, blusher and lip gloss/lipstick. Try and avoid heavy make-up.
* If make up is worn to the flight, remove it during the flight.
* Use lip balm throughout the flight.
* Body lotion should be applied at intervals throughout the flight.
* Before landing use a cleanser/daily exfoliator, moisturiser and an eye gel (mini skin care routine) – this will help with your skin appearing vibrant and feeling fresh.
* After the mini skin care routine is carried out – make-up can be applied. Under-eye concealers with light reflectors are recommended as they help the eyes to appear refreshed.
* For a fresh look use a natural foundation and soft blusher (light pink/peach), mascara and a natural lip gloss.
