After a day on the slopes, skin can certainly be put to the test by various environmental factors: cold, wind, altitude and sun exposure. Here are some suggestions for après-ski products, routines and rituals to soothe and repair the skin.
1. Gentle Cleansing
After a day outdoors, it’s important to gently cleanse the skin to remove residues of sweat, sunscreen, pollution and dirt. Use a gentle, moisturizing cleanser, such as an oil-based makeup remover or soap-free gel cleanser. This will avoid irritating skin that is already weakened by the elements.
2. Intensive Moisturizing
Cold, dry mountain air can dehydrate the skin, so moisturizing is essential after a day of skiing.
– Rich moisturizing cream: Choose a moisturizing cream or balm that contains nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides and essential fatty acids.
– Moisturizing mask: If your skin is particularly dry or tight, a moisturizing mask or sheet mask can provide immediate relief.
3. Anti-Redness & Soothing Care
The combination of cold, wind and sun can cause redness and tightness. To soothe the skin:
Use skincare products with soothing active ingredients specially formulated to soothe and calm redness. Several ingredients are recognized and proven for their soothing and healing properties while minimizing redness.
4. Protect Your Lips
Lips are particularly vulnerable to the cold. Apply a moisturizing and repairing lip balm, preferably with sun protection, as the sun can also cause damage in the mountains.
5. Eye Contour Repair Cream
The eye contour is a delicate area that can suffer from the wind, dehydration and lack of sleep often associated with ski days.
Use a cream rich in antioxidants, vitamin C or ceramides to nourish and protect this fine, fragile area.
6. Post-Ski Sun Protecti0n
Even after a day on the slopes, it’s important to reapply sunscreen to exposed areas (face, décolleté, hands), as snow can reflect UV rays, increasing exposure. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
7. Steam Bath or Sauna
If you have access to a spa or sauna after skiing, take the opportunity to treat your skin to a moment of relaxation. The steam opens the pores and cleanses the skin thoroughly while moisturizing it at the same time.
8. Gentle Exfoliation (optional)
At the end of the day, if the cold damages your skin, a gentle exfoliation using fruit acids (AHAs) or a fine-grain scrub can be beneficial to remove dead skin cells and stimulate cell regeneration. However, don’t do this daily, as external conditions may already have weakened the skin.
9. Internal Hydratation
Don’t forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can worsen skin dryness and cause tightness.
10. Face Mists
If you feel tightness or irritation in the middle of the day, a mist with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or soothing ingredients (such as those from Dr. Barbara Sturm, SkinCeuticals, Tata Harper, or Pai Skincare) can provide a burst of freshness and hydration.
By combining these practices, rituals or treatments, you’ll help your skin recover from the rigours of skiing and retain its radiance and softness, even after several hours in wintry conditions.
See you on the slopes?