Not only is it cooler and windier in the mountains, but there is more exposure to the sun’s rays. Our skin is often heavily stressed when hiking – not just on our face. Pressure points or even blisters on the feet are not uncommon after a strenuous tour, but you can avoid them well. Abrasions can also occur if you fall or walk too close to a rock.
Fortunately, there are many products you can use to protect your skin on nature walks, treat minor wounds, or care after a tour. You are well equipped with these creams and ointments:
Sun protection with high sun protection factor
According to the Federal Office of Public Health, UV exposure increases by about ten percent for every 1,000 meters of altitude. This load is increased by snow or water, as light is particularly well reflected by these surfaces. That’s why sun protection with a high sun protection factor belongs in every hiking backpack. There are not only creams, but also practical sprays and lip care. At the pharmacy or dermatologist, you can get advice on which products are best suited for the mountains.
Regular cream application is important for sun protection to continue throughout the day. Otherwise, you run the risk of sunburn. In addition, the skin should be protected with long clothing and a sun hat. This reduces the risk of developing skin cancer.
lip care sticks
Lips can also burn in the sun or become dry and chapped from cold and wetness. You can protect them with a care stick, lip oil or balm. Lip care with sun protection factor is ideal in the mountains.
light creams
There are wind and weather creams that protect the skin from various environmental influences, even for children. These care products are also suitable for hikers, they are very diverse. Such outdoor creams prevent the skin from drying out, some already contain a low sun protection factor. These creams can be used not only on the face but also on the hands.
Creams that protect against irritation caused by friction
Blisters or sore spots can’t just form on the feet while hiking – clothing or a hiking backpack can also cause friction and therefore irritation. There are special creams that can protect the skin with a waterproof and protective layer. This is already practiced before mountain sports.
Disinfectants, wound ointments and band-aids
If you get a small wound on the way, you can treat it well with a disinfectant and ointment from your first aid kit. This kills germs that prevent inflammation and promote wound healing. The affected area is also protected with a plaster.
blister plaster
If you have a blister on your foot on the way, you should apply a blister plaster to the affected area at an early stage. This protects the painful skin area and makes it easier to continue walking.
foot powder
Foot powder can help before a walk: it makes the feet drier and thus prevents blisters. It can also minimize unpleasant odors in hiking boots.
foot care creams
Some foot creams, such as those containing deer tallow or beeswax, are ideal for applying before a walk. In this way, friction on the skin can be reduced in advance.
You should also take good care of your feet after a walk, after all, they’ve worked hard. There are many foot care creams that moisturize the skin and smell good depending on the product. If you regularly apply lotion to your feet in the evening, you will prevent blistering while walking.