Skin Care for Cyclists

       

This is a post about how to look after your skin if you are a cyclist. So, before you carry on reading, this isn't a post about anti chaffing creams or saddle sore. I just have some practical advice on how to take care of your skin when braving the elements on your bike.

I commute to work in London everyday on my bike (I ride a Dawes Ultra if anyone's wondering). That's not to say I'm a lycra wearing speed monster. It is the quickest and easiest way for me to get to work, I have been cycling for years and quite frankly, I enjoy it. My journey is about half an hour long, and let me tell you, it's not for the faint hearted. Blistering cold winds, biting rain, mud, pollution and even on occasion being sprayed with window screen wash mean that my poor skin takes a beating every morning and evening, 5 days a week. So here are some rules that I live by:

ALWAYS use Lip Balm
If you do nothing else, just follow this one rule. The skin on your lips is so thin and fragile. Before I cycle I use something like Kiehl's Mango Lip Balm (10) which actually claims to help protect your lips from wind and cold weather. And to soothe dry lips after a cycle I would normally use a medicated relief cream such as this one from Blistex (6).
Exfoliate Less
I personally feel for my dry skin, exfoliating once a week is too much. I find I want to be as gentle and as kind to my skin as possible. If you want a deep clean though I would recommend using a facial brush along with your normal cleanser like the Botanics Facial Brush (2) and for when I do exfoliate once or twice a month I like to use Origins Modern Friction (9) which is very gentle.
Wear an SPF
Instead of wearing sun block I normally try to buy foundations or BB creams that have SPF in them (it's a real time saver!) I always put makeup on before I get on my bike because I don't really work up that much of a sweat and I can never be bothered to carry my makeup to work with me. Also I feel like it provides a barrier between my skin and the weather, so that can't be a bad thing! At the moment I use Rimmel Match Perfection Foundation (5) and Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB cream (8). Lots of face creams now have SPF in them too so there is really no excuse...
Use Anti-Wrinkle Cream
Even though I am only 23 I am aware that my skin will line and age prematurely from being exposed to changing adverse weather conditions. It's always best to prevent rather than cure. Having said that, if you're young like me you don't need to spend a fortune on anti-wrinkle creams (yet) so something like Garnier Ultra Lift Cream (3) will do. Make sure to shop around as it is only £6.25 at Tesco compared to £9.79 at Boots!
Use a Cleansing Oil
This one is more about personal preference and again is about being kind and gentle to your skin. I feel by using a cleansing oil instead of a foaming face wash I am still keeping moisture in my skin whilst also being able to clean it. It took some getting used to but I really noticed a difference in my skin when I switched from a foaming face wash to Origins Clean Energy (7).
Repair and Restore
There is only so much you can do to protect and prevent damage to your skin. Apart from using a good moisturiser I like to bring my skin back to life with an occasional face mask like Lush Oatifix (1). I also really want to try Heal Gel Intensive (4) which is supposed to do wonders for "troublesome" skin. Personally I think face masks are far too expensive so you could try making your own at home!

I hope you enjoyed this post, please let me know if you are a cyclist and have any of your own tips and tricks!

Isobel x

Current Skin Care Routine

I have kept my skincare routine pretty simple this winter. As a proper skincare junkie I'm always tempted to add in extra lotions & potions, but I have found that my skin definitely responds best to a less is more philosophy.

My skin type is mostly normal, but like a lot of people it is prone to dryness & sensitivity during winter.  That wonderful combination of central heating, harsh weather & lack of sunlight does not make for beautiful skin. I have been combatting the elements this year with a few new beauty finds & have experienced far less dryness than I did last winter when I feel I was adding every lotion under the sun to my face in a bid to hydrate it.
If you have a similar skin type to me I highly recommend any of these products, they have seen me through the winter months with very clear, even & hydrated skin.

I use exactly the same products morning/night. The only extra step I'll add in is a mask in the evening if my skin is feeling particularly dry/tight.

Products from left to right -

Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask, an ABSOLUTE must for dehydrated skin! I only use this about once a week at the moment as my skin is quite balanced, but when I do I wake up the next morning with luminous, smooth, plumped skin. A genuine miracle worker & great when you're tired as it simply sinks into the skin like a thick moisturiser - no need to wash off!
Sanoflore Organic Rose Water, I was recommended this floral water by the owner of a pharmacy in Paris, a soothing toner full of super natural ingredients it really brightens my complexion & reduces redness. Sanoflore is a brand I had never heard of previously but one that I have since fallen in love with. This is the only item I have left from my Parisian purchases, but I also highly recommend the Nourishing Honey Cream if you have dry/sensitive skin.
Caudalie Instant Foaming Cleanser, a gentle airy foam cleanser that leaves my skin feeling soft & refreshed.
Kiehl's Creamy Avocado Eye Treatment, my favourite eye cream, it is extremely hydrating & gentle on the delicate eye area. I wouldn't recommend it as a step in your morning routine if you wear a lot of eye makeup as the thick rich formula makes applying eyeliner/ eyeshadow a nightmare. However if you wear more of a natural/no makeup daytime look its perfect, & it makes the perfect evening treat melting into the skin for a pampered post-facial glow.
Aesop Camelia Nut Facial Hydrating Cream, my first Aesop purchase & I'm definitely hooked! It has an immediate soothing effect on the skin & a beautiful light scent. A nourishing non-greasy cream that's quite light in texture for a moisturiser thats so hydrating.

Currently at the top of my skincare wishlist; Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm, WEI Golden Root Purifying Mud Mask & Aesop Damascan Rose Facial Treatment.
Looks like a little Space NK purchase might be on the cards soon!

If you have tried any of these, or have any tips on keeping your skin winter-proof please let me know in the comments below!

Harriet x