Have you ever wondered what seemingly harmless item in your travel bag could cause mid-air mayhem? It might be that trusty can of dry shampoo you rely on for a quick hair refresh! Flying can do a number on your hair, but before you reach for that aerosol-based dry shampoo on the plane, let’s talk about why that’s a potentially bad idea.
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The Common Hair Product You Might Want To Avoid Using On A Plane
Let’s face it. Long flights can leave your hair feeling less than fresh. The combination of dry cabin air, questionable headrests, and the general stress of travel can turn even the most carefully styled ‘do into a sad, flat mess. But don’t worry, you don’t have to land with a hair crisis.
While there are plenty of hair-saving products you can use on travel days, like leave-in conditioners, oils, and even certain types of dry shampoo, it’s critical to remember what not to use: aerosol-based hair products. Trust me, you don’t want to be the reason your flight makes an unscheduled pit stop.
LeAnn Rimes’s Learning Experience
Singer LeAnn Rimes learned about the dangers of aerosol dry shampoo the hard way. Back in 2015, she accidentally set off the fire alarm in an airplane bathroom after using dry shampoo spray. As she hilariously shared on X (formerly known as Twitter), it was a “first time for everything.” To avoid a similar situation, it’s best to leave those aerosol hair products in your bag during the flight.
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Understanding the Risks of Using Aerosol Products In-Flight
You might be thinking, “It’s just a little spray, what’s the big deal?” Well, here’s the deal. Airplane lavatories are equipped with highly sensitive smoke detectors designed to detect even the tiniest particles in the air.
Aerosol sprays, like the ones found in many dry shampoos and hairsprays, release particles that can easily trigger those detectors. And once that alarm goes off, things can get a little (or a lot) chaotic.
The Ripple Effect of a Spritz
Even if it’s a false alarm, airlines have to follow strict safety and security protocols mid-flight. Depending on the situation, that could mean diverting the plane to another airport for an emergency landing. Suddenly, your quick hair fix has inconvenienced a whole plane full of people, not to mention the flight crew. So, think twice before reaching for that aerosol can.
Aerosols and TSA Regulations
Now, you might be wondering if you can even bring aerosol products on a plane at all. The good news is, you can bring some, as long as you follow TSA’s guidelines for liquids and aerosols. The important thing to consider is size restrictions.
| Item | Carry-on Limit | Checked Bag Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Aerosol Dry Shampoo | 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less | No limit |
| Other Aerosol Products | Must adhere to 3-1-1 rule for liquids (3.4 oz or less in a quart-sized bag) | No limit |
If your aerosol dry shampoo can is 3.4 ounces or less, you can keep it in your carry-on bag. If it’s larger than that, it needs to go in your checked bag. Just make sure you’re following the rules to avoid any issues at security.
Recommendations for Flight Haircare
Okay, so aerosol dry shampoo is a no-go on the plane. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of ways to keep your hair looking good during your flight. You just need to adjust your strategy a bit.
Powder-Based Dry Shampoos to the Rescue
The good news is that not all dry shampoos are created equal. Powder-based dry shampoos are a fantastic alternative to aerosols. They don’t contain propellants and are totally fine to use on the plane. You can apply them manually to absorb excess oil and refresh your hair without any risk of setting off alarms.
Pre-Flight Hair Prep
Sometimes the best way to manage your hair on a flight is to prepare it before you even leave for the airport. Think about your hair type and how it usually behaves when you travel.
For some people, that means showering right before heading to the airport. For others, it might mean washing their hair a day or two before the flight. The goal is to start with a clean, manageable base.
Leave-In Products Are Your Friend
Don’t underestimate the power of leave-in conditioners and hair serums. Applying these products before your flight can help combat the dryness caused by the cabin air. They can also add shine, reduce frizz, and make your hair easier to style when you land.
Smart Hairstyles for Travel
If you have longer hair, consider styling it in a way that minimizes the need for extra products during the flight. Buns, braids, and half-updos are all great options. These styles keep your hair contained and reduce friction, which can lead to frizz and tangles.
The Power of Accessories
Accessories can be a lifesaver when it comes to in-flight haircare. Headbands and scarves can help keep your hair in place and add a touch of style. They’re also great for disguising any post-flight hair mishaps.
| Accessory | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Headband | Keeps hair off your face, adds style |
| Scarf | Protects hair from friction, hides bad hair |
| Travel-Sized Brush | Detangles hair after releasing a bun or braid |
Don’t Forget the Detangler
No matter how carefully you style your hair before a flight, tangles can still happen. Pack a small, travel-sized detangler in your carry-on to quickly smooth out any knots after you take out your bun or braid. This will help you avoid the temptation of using other products.
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