Confessions of an MEA Flight Attendant: Taking the skincare conversation to greater heights.

Welcome aboard as we take you behind the scenes of Middle East Airlines (MEA), where the skies hold more than just dreams for flight attendants. Meet Victoria Yammouni, a passionate stewardess who embraces the challenges of the aviation world.

In this exclusive interview, Victoria takes us down the aisles of battling skincare dilemmas, and defying age …up there

She was very friendly and outspoken to pose a voice for everyone who struggles with their skin breaking down on the job.  

Crafting complexions above the clouds

What interested you about your job?

 

I have been passionate about aircrafts since I was young. Girls my age used to play with barbies, while I used to play with helicopters. I even enrolled in Engineering when I was at the university, then I changed my direction to aviation and it worked out!

 

Are there any before thoughts you had about being a flight attendant? Are there any afters?

 

When I was younger, I remember I used to look at flight attendants and admire their skin and physique. They always look younger than their own age, and the lifestyle seemed very tempting – traveling the world for free… 

 

After I became one, I realized that the lifestyle is tough and it comes with health and skin problems.

 

 

Did you think it will affect your skin? Overall health?

 

Not really. The illusion that you observe from afar, you don’t really see bad skin, visible big pores, or water retention – because we always have to look our best!
Only healthy, glowy skin, and perfect makeup – and here you think “Oh I’m gonna look just like them!”

 

 

What affects them the most? Is it the altitude? Climate change? The radiation?

 

The impact of climate change on your skin is real—shifting from dry to oily depending on the location, requiring a constant tweak in skincare products.

 

Altitude plays its part, giving your face a puffier look and your body too – talk about water retention!
Radiation, a less-known foe, triggers stubborn pimples.

 

Beyond the clouds, the not-so-nourishing airplane food affects our skin alongside the tough conditions, leading to acne, visible pores, and hormonal imbalances by the age of 30. Hydration is a challenge; we limit water intake to avoid constant bathroom breaks during flights.

 

As a flight attendant, what are 3 skin concerns that you deal with?

 

First up is enlarged pores since they are very hard to hide even with makeup! Second is tiredness and extreme exhaustion even on days where it’s supposedly our “vacation” I spend it sleeping or lying around.. And our faces are always pale! Lastly, dehydration, I believe, is the concern of mine and most of cabin crew.

 

Do you have a skincare routine of your own? And does it change based on the destinations you visit?

 

I mainly invest in cleansers, especially the ones that are fragrance-free and organic (no harsh chemicals), sunscreen, and moisturizers. Organic makeup is a must too – just to be on the safe side, because at the end of the day, we are literally the face of the brand and any concern that shows, does affect the shift! 

 

Having a full face of makeup is mandatory for your field, how do you think those long hours of wearing it affects your skin and do you change your makeup products/routine depending on the country you’re flying to?

 

In tropical locations, I opt for powder-based products to combat my skin’s oiliness. I aim for a ‘clean makeup’ look, but the challenge lies in its endurance on my face. 

 

Flight attendants take makeup courses, mastering the art of concealing pimples, acne, and pores. Regardless of one’s natural skin condition, makeup is a must for all of us in this field.

 

Managing passenger needs and potential emergencies can be stressful. How does stress impact your skin, and do you have any self care rituals to help relax and rejuvenate after challenging flights?

 

Being a flight attendant comes with its challenges, and stress often leads to hormonal imbalances like PCOS and other health issues. I’m big on staying active, aiming for 3-4 workout sessions a week to maintain my health. However, stress-induced eating that gets the best of us can cause skin problems. Our constant movement on the plane results in unexpected bruises from bumping into objects, prompting us to use makeup to conceal them. It’s something you don’t really consider unless you’re part of the flight crew.

 

What are words of advice you would give men and women venturing into the field? 

 

Being a flight attendant goes beyond the glamorous image. It demands both mental and physical preparedness. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle beforehand is essential, as adapting to a new one mid-career can be challenging. 

 

It’s not all about free travel; the job consumes your time and comes with its price. Being interested in skincare is important too; even for men, investing in cleansers, moisturizers, and occasionally concealer is part of the routine. So, it’s about embracing the reality behind the wings and being genuinely invested in your well-being.

 

 

Do you and your teammates visit skincare facilities for regular quick face-care/skincare? Or do you prefer to do your own skincare?

 

We handle our own skincare because our schedules are tight. Considering our constant exposure to various destinations and the need to be mindful of our medical conditions, like being on Accutane; imagine catching malaria while you’re on it, treatment is impossible. Maintaining healthy skin is essential, but elaborate facial treatments often demand no makeup, no sun exposure, and days of rest. Given our hectic routines, that’s not feasible. We opt for quick, walk-in-walk-out treatments – practical for our on-the-go lifestyle.

 

 

A stewardess is supposed to live-up to a particular image/age? What are ways they follow to look younger? 

 

In Middle East Airlines (MEA), age isn’t a barrier for flight attendants – as long as you’re fit and maintain a youthful appearance, you can continue flying until your early 60s. Many start cosmetic treatments like botox, fillers, and slimming sessions as early as 25 to uphold a natural look. However, it’s crucial not to overdo it; appearing fake might result in being temporarily grounded until your appearance aligns with the airline’s standards.

 

We mentioned a lot about skin care. How does your job affect your body?

 

Flying takes a toll on your body in various ways. Water retention becomes an issue, affecting your entire body. Dealing with humid environments means using insect sprays. Grooming guidelines, particularly during COVID-19, involved wearing nylon suits for protection, leading to discomfort like itchiness and dryness. Plus, the food onboard tends to be tasteless.

 

As we wrap up this exclusive journey through the skies with Victoria Yammouni, let her experiences serve as a reminder that behind the glamour of flight attendant life lies a commitment to well-being, resilience, and the ageless pursuit of radiant skies. 

Buckle up, stay glowing, and bon voyage!