Trekking is definitely one of the easiest ways to explore and enjoy nature. It also has a lot of benefits and is great for your body and mind. But trekking is not always kind when it comes to your skin. Of course, you get ample sun time and but the extreme weather conditions on the trail can cause problems on your skin through harsh UV rays, extremely dry weather, dehydration, etc. But this does not mean you need to put your trekking plans aside. Skincare while trekking is as essential as wearing the right boots and we are here to help.
Skincare while trekking – 10 Practical Tips for You to follow :
1. Cleanse your face
You may or may not be able to wash your face with a cleanser on the trail. However, cleansing is an important part of keeping your dirt free. Carry a light cleanser and clean your skin twice every day once in the morning and in the night. Don’t wipe your face dry after using the cleanser, instead, let the water soak in.
2. Moisturize your face, neck and upper thoracic
Hydrating your skin is especially important before you head outdoors and this is crucial when it comes to skincare while trekking. High altitudes can sap your skin of moisture, so you want to be sure that you’re using an oil-free moisturizer. Apply this generously all over your face and neck. Remember, this will be your layer 1.
3. Don’t forget your sunscreen
This is a no-brainer when you speak about skincare while trekking. The sunrays in the mountains are harsher on your skin than in the city, so wearing sunscreen on your trek is a MUST! Opt for a non-comendogenic sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher. Apply generously on your face, neck and all exposed parts of your body. Apply this 15 minutes before the start of your trek and reapply every 3 hours.
4. Use Face Wipes or face towel
Carry gentle facial wipes for a sweat-free face on those long days. Ensure that they are paraben-free, without alcohol, and unperfumed. You could also use a face towel to rid the sweat off your face/body by wetting it with some water. Remember, if you’re using a face wipe, dispose it in the waste bag and do not litter.
If you’re using a face towel, wet it with water and then use it to cleanse your face. Wet it again after use and dry it whenever possible.
5. Safeguard your lips
Protecting your lips is as important as protecting your face. You may have experienced lip burn/ lip extreme dry lips on treks because of the weather conditions. The only way to prevent this is by applying generous amounts of lip balm on your lips every 3-4 hours.
6. Avoid UV Exposure
Your skin cells are vulnerable to the damaging effects of overexposure to UV radiation. Cells on the outside of your body require the same strategies as the cells inside, in terms of proper hydration and nutrition.
Either use a sun hat or an umberella while trekking in the sun. This will give you additional sun protection against ultraviolet radiation and does a great job of keeping my head cool during direct sunlight hours. Look for ones that are easily packable, and provide an ultraviolet protection factor of at least fifty.
Another part of your body that is prone to sun damage and tanning is the back of your neck. Cover it fully or use caps that come with an extended neck cover
7. Hand Sanitizer
This isn’t skincare exactly, but proper hygiene will go a long way to keeping you – and your skin – as comfortable as possible when spending time outdoors. A small bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean and safe after bathroom breaks and before meals.
8. Chafing
One of the most crucial and neglected part of skincare while trekking is chafing. This can even ruin your trek if not taken care of. Bring some non-petroleum-based anti-chafing ointment, or talcum powder for keeping your skin dry in chafe-prone areas such as inner thighs, nipples for men, your sleeves, between and underneath your breasts, the creases in your groin and buttocks, and the tender skin beneath your waist band. Make sure whatever product your choose is sweat-resistant, too; you’re going to need it.
Skin Elements has great anti-chafing cream for your body.
9. Hydration
Due to exposure to sunshine and rigorous activity associated with trekking, your body will dehydrate. For your body skin to remain soft and smooth, water is essential. Therefore, always stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
10. Soothe Burned/Blistered Skin
If you’re trekking in dry extreme cold conditions, the possibility of you getting a skin burn is much higher. If you are stuck with a skin burn on a trek, use a soothing product that can reduce the inflammation and calm the skin. Aloe vera gel is just perfect for this. If you’re looking for something medicated, Silverx ointment can be good for blisters, burns and open wounds. Carry either a small tub of Aloe vera gel and a small tube of Silverx on your treks, it will be extremely helpful.
Leave no Trace
Skincare while trekking is an essential as getting the right backpack. Even if the soap and other daily products you bring with you are biodegradable, and made of organic ingredients, that doesn’t mean you can just leave them behind. Be sure to pack up any wipes you use and carry them out, just like you would any other trash. Leaving no trace should be a lifestyle that you must follow to keep our mountains clean and safe.
In Conclusion:
Skincare is important, but living life to its fullest even more so.
Less is more! No matter what you choose to include in your regime for skincare while trekking, remember the reason why you’re in the mountains in the first place – to have a good time. Don’t spend a lot of time worrying about skin care products. Just enjoy the ride, take some good care and have lots of fun!
You can also download a pdf version of our tips.