Are we getting the best of the mountains? Our skin doesn't necessarily agree. Here's a quick overview of beauty habits to keep on the slopes or at the chalet, in addition to our usual routine.
UV rays
Protecting your skin from UV rays during moderate to high exposure is THE first step to take to keep it healthy. And in the mountains, it's vital.
The thickness of the atmosphere that filters the sun's rays is considerably reduced there. As a result, UV rays are more aggressive than at lower altitudes. The UV index increases by 10% for every 1,000 m of altitude. At Alpe d'Huez, you can easily climb to 3,000 m. You get the picture when the weather is nice...
That's without counting on glare! Water reflects the sun's rays. We know that. Between 10 and 30% of the rays. What about snow? It acts like a mirror and reflects between 40 and 90% of UV rays.
When we know that the sun is directly responsible for burns, premature aging of the skin and numerous allergic skin reactions... Do we still want to play with it?
We're giving up on treatments that only half protect us. It's time to get out a real shield for our overexposed faces.
Choose a cream with a high UV protection factor and a light, non-greasy texture that will take care of your fragile skin.
On the slopes or in a mountain restaurant, our skin no longer has anything to worry about and neither do we!
Dry skin
The dry cold found at altitude dries out our skin. Consequences:
#1 Itchy legs
The skin in this part of the body contains little sebum. It therefore has a harder time regulating its natural moisture and is much more sensitive to the harsh cold. Constantly rubbing against tights and wetsuits, it becomes irritated. The skin is cracked and tends to itch!
One solution: hydration
Forget soap; we need to soothe the skin on our legs. We're rushing to get products with moisturizing active ingredients and a creamy texture, like lotions, perfect for delivering continuous, gentle hydration to our body.
#2 Clenched hands
To protect itself from the cold—especially when the body's muscles are engaged by snow sports—the body focuses blood flow on its essential organs. Extremities, such as the hands, suffer the consequences. They are more sensitive, and the skin has a harder time coping with external aggressions.
One solution: nutrition
Regularly apply a nourishing hand cream to your hands, from the wrist to the tips of your nails, to soothe your skin. Tip: Apply with a light massage to stimulate blood circulation and boost skin absorption.
#3 Chapped lips
Chapped skin is a small, dry patch on the surface of the skin. The dry, cold mountain air has something to do with it. Before it develops into eczema (not ideal for vacation), take action!
A solution: balm
Always carry a highly moisturizing lip balm. Nourished and hydrated, the skin on your lips regains its elasticity and your mouth feels comfortable again.
“When will I see you again, wonderful skin?” Starting now with our special mountain routine!