How to take care of your skin on a mountain hike. Told by a cosmetologist

doctor, cosmetologist, dermatovenerologist, expert in Corage therapy

“Traveling away from the metropolis is an unforgettable adventure and bright emotions, but unfavorable environment and lack of amenities can negatively affect the appearance. Sunburns, weathered and dry face – not the most pleasant moments. But if you know how to prepare for such an event in advance, you can keep your skin in good condition even in harsh hiking conditions.”

First of all, it is important to remember that the high mountain climate is a constant temperature fluctuation and an area where insolation is stronger than in the lowlands. Therefore, when you are going hiking, it is important not to forget to use reliable sun protection and choose skin care products with SPF factor, as the sun’s rays can cause serious damage to the skin, causing burns, photo-aging and, as a consequence, pigmentation.

What to take with you and how to protect your skin

For hot climatic zones you should choose creams with a higher SPF-factor, and in northern regions you should use moisturizing oils and balms. When camping, it is important to drink enough water as our skin is made up of 30% water and if there is not enough water in the body, it will look dry and weakened, it may even crack.

If sunburns appear on the skin, try to find a place in the shade, and if possible apply a cold compress to the area of the burns. It is better to use aloe vera cream/ ointment to reduce swelling and healing.

In addition to sun protection, you should not forget about the need for proper cleansing and choose a product according to your skin type. If it is dry, prefer a cleansing milk or cream, if it is oily – a cleansing gel.

To minimize the amount of products you carry, you can use a universal cleanser that is suitable for all skin types.

Bring wet wipes to cleanse your face and body, and microfiber to remove excess dust and dirt. It’s also important to choose the right skin care products, such as those with glycerin and urea, which moisturize the skin better than regular lotions.

Even if you don’t normally use lip care products, that will change in the mountains. Because of the cold temperatures and constant activity, there is a high risk that they will become weathered and can become chapped. That’s why it’s important to use balm regularly during your trip, but if you forget it, you can apply some honey to your lips at night – it will give instant moisturizing and nourishment. The product will be absorbed in a few hours, so you won’t need to wash it off in the morning.

How to prepare your skin in advance

It’s a good idea to take care of your skin beforehand to ensure that your body is saturated with the necessary micronutrients and vitamins, with vitamins D and C being among the most essential.

When choosing skin care products, be sure to focus on those you already use regularly, and if you decide to try something new, be sure to test a couple of weeks before the trip to avoid possible allergic reactions, which can be worsened by the bright sun.

A course of massage before a long trip with challenging conditions is the best thing you can do to support both your body’s immunity and your skin’s health. The relaxing effect on the tissues will help to flush out excess water from the body, tighten the skin and moisturize it properly.

In addition, warming up and self-massage while hiking also helps to support the body and is beneficial to the muscles and overall health.

If you don’t have time for a long preparation, you can try corage therapy, which requires no rehabilitation period and is suitable for all ages and skin types. It can also be considered as a one-time express procedure, but only after a doctor’s consultation.

The technique is based on quantum molecular resonance. It is a safe electromagnetic effect on soft tissues without their pronounced heating and damage, which makes the skin moisturized, tightens the oval of the face, evens out the tone of the face and prevents signs of pigmentation.

In addition, this procedure can be used both as a prevention of photo-aging, which all mountain travelers are bound to encounter, and in combating this problem.

Another method that will help prepare the skin for a long journey is plasma therapy. The method is based on the activation of your own platelets to stimulate and accelerate tissue regeneration.

This stimulation activates the growth of collagen and elastin, helping to improve the quality and density of the skin. However, you should consult a specialist before performing the procedure.