Cycling and skiing in the winter lend themselves to a special set of beauty-related issues that require changes to my routine. While most of my body is covered with weather-appropriate gear, dry skin and damaged hair are practically unavoidable. Cold winter air, windy days, and constantly transitioning from chilly outside air to extremely warm indoor heat can be harsh and unforgiving. Below are my must-have items to combat the elements, and keep me enjoying the slopes and the roads, even on the chilliest days.
Supergoop PLAY Antioxidant Body Mist SPF 50 with Vitamin C
The reflection from the snow on the mountain or slick roads while I’m on my bike kicks a significant amount of rays. Even though we’re experiencing less daylight in the winter, it doesn’t make the power of the sun any less, so SPF is a must. This non-aerosol spray is my go-to for any sports activity. It lasts up to 80mins, and smells great!
Ultra Repair® Oat & Hemp Seed Dry Oil from First Aid Beauty
Twice a day I place this oil on my face during the winter time. My skin is perpetually dehydrated thanks to my horrible habit of not drinking enough water (I’m working on that), but also from the elements. My skin feels immediately soothed after using this oil, and dryness and redness is significantly reduced after repeated use. It absorbs quickly into your skin, so you don’t feel oily, and it is the last thing I apply before moisturizer.
The Body Exfoliator from Nécessaire
Exfoliating in the winter has been a hallmark of the beauty industry, and for good reason. Buffing away dead cells caused by indoor heating and the cold air outside means new cells can come in healthier and without obstruction. I am currently using this about once a week over my whole body and a selectively prior to shaving, which prevents annoying ingrown hairs — crucial for myself and my fellow cyclists! The sandalwood scent from their line isn’t overpowering, and even my fragrance-free friends are intrigued.
After a day of ripping through powder, or cycling up my local mountain, soaking salts soothe sore muscles with the added benefit of hydrating thanks to this product’s inclusion of jojoba oil. I’ve become a recent CBD convert, first-hand experiencing the benefits on my muscles as a part of my recovery. Usage instructions recommend adding a cup of salts to your bath, the only additional thing I would add… a glass of wine and a few candles.
Probably the product in my shower that I talk about most is this high-performance, deliciously smelling formula. 5-10 minutes on my hair in the shower two to three times a week, and my tresses are hydrated. When my hair sits in braids for most of my outdoor activities, I can confidently use small non-slip hair ties, knowing that my breakage will be at a minimum when I take my hair out to warm up and wash up in the shower. Pro tip: after the shower, don’t brush your hair while it’s wet. That’s when it is it’s weakest.
Counter+ All Bright C Serum from Beautycounter
If you aren’t already rocking a vitamin C serum in your skin care routine, start now. The benefits of vitamin C aren’t limited to it being an antioxidant, it is highly acidic meaning in triggers collagen and elastin production. And, it presents sun damage by neutralizing free radicals (something that your sunscreen can’t do). I pair this with the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic, but reach for this one every day, versus the latter, every other day because it is a bit gentler. And, it smells amazing.
Farmacy Honeymoon Glow AHA Resurfacing Night Serum
My most recent addition to my beauty routine is perhaps one of my favorites. I love Farmacy as a brand — their products are cruelty, paraben, mineral oil, and fragrance free, meaning it’s perfect for sensitive skin. This particular product boasts a blend of AHA, which exfoliates dead skin cells and promotes cell renewal. Paired with hyaluronic acid, this serum delivers intense hydration; much needed after a day in the cold.
Beauty isn’t always about what you put on your hair and skin, but what you take in as well. Adding this as a part of my beauty routine has contributed to longer, thicker locks on my head. The combination of Biotin, Keratin, Silicon and a few other vitamins helps your body metabolize fats & proteins, and form collagen, making my hair strong enough to withstand the elements.
Handcrafted with beeswax, organic shea butter, coconut, and oils, these miracle sticks make moisturizing easy. I discovered these sticks from a family friend, as the small business has minimal internet presence, but I am obsessed. These take the mess out of moisturizing, and help me target spots that I don’t normally moisturize, like the backs of my arms, bum, etc. I reapply right before bed and wake up feeling like a new woman!
First Aid Beauty Pharma Oats and Hemp Multi-Fix Skin Salve for Dry Skin
By far one of my favorite and most effective products from the FAB team, this salve is truly a miracle worker. I use it on the toughest parts of my body, elbows, hands, knees, feet, etc. I also like to use it on the sides of my thighs, which I feel like I ignore all too often when it comes to moisturizing. After a couple weeks of use, those little bumps from dehydration disappear, and tough dry skin starts to soften.
Bonus: Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm
Okay okay, I had a tough time picking just 10 products to feature. I know not everyone is using makeup right now, but if you are, this is the only product I recommend using. It is the holy grail of cleansing balms according to Sephora, and it’s because it melts away makeup while leaving it hydrated and smooth — something that I have a tough time finding with most makeup removers.
Venture travelist 