Trail-Ready Skin: The Ultimate Skincare Guide for Hikers

One of the best times to head out on a long nature hike is when the weather is warm and the daylight is long. But as we are all aware, being outside for too long, particularly in the Spring and Summer, can damage our skin. The biggest organ in the human body – our skin – plays a crucial role in sustaining bodily functions like temperature regulation and weather protection. Sun exposure, dehydration and those dreaded bug bites can all harm your skin, so to help it do its job while you're out hiking, it's crucial to have a good skincare routine in place. 

Let’s take a closer look at some simple, yet effective ways to take care of your skin while on the trails!

Pre-Hike Skincare Routine

Before setting out on your next adventure, it's ideal to prep your skin to ensure it stays healthy and protected throughout your hike. This is most important for exposed areas like your face. You can follow these easy steps to get it trail-ready:

• Cleansing: The first step to any skincare routine is clean skin. Gently cleanse your face with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to remove dirt, oil and impurities. This will help prevent breakouts and allow your products to work more effectively.

• Exfoliation: Removing dead skin cells is key to maintaining smooth, healthy skin. Exfoliate your face once or twice a week with a gentle, non-abrasive scrub or a chemical exfoliant, depending on your skin type and preference. This will improve texture and help your moisturizer and sunscreen absorb better.

• Hydration: Properly moisturizing your skin is essential, especially when spending time outdoors. Opt for a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that's designed for your skin type. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help to hydrate and lock in moisture without feeling heavy.

• Sun Protection: One of the most crucial steps in your pre-hike routine is applying sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and use it generously on your face and any exposed skin for at least 15-30 minutes before heading out. Remember those often-overlooked areas like the back of your neck, ears and the tops of your feet!

Now that your skin is prepped and protected, it's time to pack your backpack with some essential products to keep your skin in tip-top shape throughout your hike.

Essential Skincare Products for Hiking

Bring these essential items in your pack to keep your skin feeling and looking fantastic while you're hiking:

• Moisturizer with SPF: A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer with built-in SPF protection is a hiker's best friend. It will keep your face hydrated while also providing added sun protection. Choose a product that suits your skin type and has an SPF of at least 30.

• Lip Balm with SPF: Don't forget about your lips! The skin on our lips is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of our face, making them prone to sunburn and chapping. Keep a lip balm with SPF handy to protect and moisturize your lips throughout your hike.

• Sunscreen: You've already applied sunscreen before starting your hike, but you'll need to reapply it during your adventure, as well. Pack a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect you adequately. Look for eco-friendly options that are biodegradable and reef-safe to minimize environmental impact.

• Insect Repellent: Pesky insects can be annoying, cause irritation and even transmit diseases. Choose a skin-safe insect repellent that contains natural ingredients like lemon eucalyptus oil or picaridin to keep those bugs at bay without harming your skin or the environment.

• Cleansing Wipes: When you're on the trail, access to water for washing your face may be limited. Pack some biodegradable cleansing wipes to help remove sweat, dirt and sunscreen during your hike. These handy wipes can also double to freshen up other parts of your body when needed.

• Anti-Chafing Products: Chafing can cause discomfort and irritation during your hike, so it's important to address this issue as part of your skincare routine. Use an anti-chafing balm, cream or powder on areas prone to friction, such as inner thighs, underarms and beneath backpack straps. These products can help reduce friction, prevent chafing and soothe irritated skin, allowing you to enjoy your hike comfortably.

If you'd like to be extra prepared, check out our guide on what to bring on a hike.

Skincare Routine During a Hike

While you're hiking, be mindful of your skin's needs. Sunscreen should be reapplied once every two hours or after heavy sweating. If you start to feel overheated, take a break in a shady spot, and use a facial mist or a damp cloth to cool down. Keep your face clean by using biodegradable cleansing wipes throughout the day and reapply moisturizer as needed. And, of course, stay hydrated! Drinking water along the way will help your complexion and allow your skin to glow.

Post-Hike Skincare Routine

Your skin deserves some TLC after a day of adventure. Start by cleansing your face and body with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, sweat and sunscreen. Use soothing, repairing products containing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or calendula to reduce redness, inflammation and irritation while promoting skin repair. Hydrate with a moisturizer or serum suitable for your skin type. If your skin feels rough or congested, exfoliate gently with a scrub or chemical exfoliant to refresh and smooth its texture.

Addressing Specific Skin Concerns While Hiking

Hiking can sometimes exacerbate certain skin conditions. Here are some tips for managing common issues while on the trail:

• Acne: Excess sweat and dirt can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Keep your face clean by using biodegradable cleansing wipes during your hike and washing your face thoroughly afterward. Choose non-comedogenic skincare products and consider using a spot treatment containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for active breakouts.

• Rosacea: Sun exposure and heat can trigger flare-ups for those with rosacea. Protect your skin by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and mineral-based sunscreen with at least SPF 30. You can also carry a facial mist with soothing ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera to help calm redness during your hike.

• Eczema: Hiking in hot and dry conditions can worsen eczema symptoms. Keep your skin moisturized by applying a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotion before and after your hike. If you experience a flare-up, consider using hydrocortisone cream or ointment to help reduce inflammation and itching.

Nutrition and Hydration for Skin Health

When it comes to skincare, it's not only about using the right products on the outside of your body, but it's also about what goes inside your body! A well-balanced diet and proper hydration are essential for maintaining healthy skin while hiking. 

Consume antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, leafy greens and nuts to help protect your skin from environmental damage and promote overall skin health. Foods high in healthy fats, like avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish, can help keep your skin moisturized and supple. Include fruits and veggies high in vitamin C, like oranges, bell peppers, and strawberries, in your diet for collagen production and elasticity. Most importantly, drink lots of water!

Leave No Trace

As outdoor enthusiasts, we are responsible for caring for the environment while enjoying our activities. By incorporating the Leave No Trace principles into your skincare routine, you can minimize your impact on nature. Here are some tips for eco-friendly practices:

• Choose Eco-Friendly Products: Opt for biodegradable, reef-safe and cruelty-free skincare products to reduce your environmental footprint. These products are formulated to break down naturally, minimizing the impact on wildlife and ecosystems.

• Dispose Waste Properly: When discarding packaging, wipes or other skincare product waste, do so responsibly. Pack out all trash and recyclable materials, and dispose of them properly once you've returned home.

• Minimize Impact on the Environment: Be mindful of your water usage, and avoid contaminating natural water sources with soaps, cleansers or sunscreen. Wash your face and body at least 200 feet from lakes, rivers or streams to prevent contamination.

By following these Leave No Trace principles in your skincare routine, you'll be able to enjoy the outdoors while preserving the natural beauty and health of the environment for future generations.

Hike with Trail-Ready Skin

There’s nothing worse than a painful sunburn or itchy bug bites to trip up your serene nature hike. And suffering with dry, irritated skin and chapped lips are no way to start your adventure. Taking care of your skin before, during and after hiking is essential for maintaining its health and appearance. By following some simple but effective skincare routines, you can keep your skin protected and feeling great while exploring the great outdoors. Remember to incorporate eco-friendly practices and adhere to the Leave No Trace principles in your skincare routines while on the trails. Happy hiking and don’t forget the sunscreen!