How to Care for Your Skin During Outdoor Adventures
Taking care of your skin during outdoor adventures is crucial, especially if you're exposed to harsh weather conditions like sun, wind, cold, or extreme dryness. SENDY’s got some essential skincare tips and recommendations to keep your skin protected and healthy:
Sun Protection
Apply Sunscreen! use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every two hours (more often if sweating or in water). Sunscreen is recommended even on cloudy days!
Face:
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 – Lightweight, non-greasy, great for sensitive skin.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 – Invisible, matte finish, works well under makeup.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk SPF 60 – Hydrating, high protection, great for dry skin.
Body:
Banana Boat Ultra Sport SPF 50 – Sweat- and water-resistant.
ThinkSport SPF 50+ – Mineral-based, reef-safe, and ideal for sensitive skin.
Wear Protective Clothing: opt for UPF-rated clothing, hats, and sunglasses. A buff or neck gaiter can also help shield your face.
Avoid Peak Sun Hours: minimize direct sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest.
Hydration
Protection Against Wind & Cold
Use a Barrier Cream: apply a thick, protective balm to exposed areas to prevent windburn. We recommend:
Vaseline or Aquaphor Healing Ointment – Prevents windburn, locks in moisture.
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream – Hydrating, long-lasting, and great for winter adventures.
Layer Up: wear a face mask, balaclava, or scarf to shield your skin from harsh winds.
Avoid Harsh Cleansers: stick to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that won’t strip natural oils.
Bug & Rash Protection
Bug Repellents:
Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent – Long-lasting, effective against mosquitoes and ticks.
Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent – Natural alternative, DEET-free.
Anti-Itch & Rash Care:
Tecnu Extreme Poison Ivy Scrub – Removes plant oils to prevent rashes.
Benadryl Itch Relief Stick – Quick relief for bites, poison ivy, or irritation.
Combat Dryness & Chapping
Use a Lip Balm with SPF: keep lips from cracking with a hydrating lip balm that contains SPF.
Aquaphor Lip Repair + SPF 30 – Heals dry lips while protecting from the sun.
Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25 – Minty, moisturizing, and protective.
Protection in Snowy & High-Altitude Conditions
Double Up on Sunscreen: snow reflects UV rays, increasing exposure, so apply sunscreen generously.
Use a Thick Moisturizer: cold air can be extremely drying, so choose a heavier moisturizer with ingredients like shea butter.
Cover Up: minimize direct exposure to cold wind by wearing a face mask or goggles.
Insect & Rash Prevention
Use Bug Repellent: if in a mosquito-heavy area, apply DEET or natural repellents like lemon eucalyptus oil.
Watch for Poisonous Plants: if hiking or camping, learn to recognize and avoid poison ivy, oak, and sumac.
Post-Adventure Recovery
Avoid Hot Showers: they can strip your skin of essential oils—opt for lukewarm water instead.
Cleanse Gently: remove dirt, sweat, and sunscreen buildup with a mild, hydrating cleanser.
Gentle Face Washes:
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser – Fragrance-free, ideal for sensitive skin.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water – Quick, no-rinse cleanser!
Post-Sun Soothing: for any sunburn, irritation, or windburn.
Aloe Vera Gel (100% Pure) – Cools and calms sunburned or irritated skin.
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Cream – Great for reducing redness and irritation.
Apply a Deep Moisturizer at Night:
after a long day outdoors, restore your skin with a rich night cream, facial oil, or serum.
