Bike week 2021 has arrived! This much awaited event has finally come to grace cycling fans worldwide and, if you haven’t already got on your bike while in lockdown then hopefully this will encourage some of us to do so. So we’ve put together some handy skin care for cycling tips for you, so that you can enjoy the adventure and look after your skin.

If you’re an avid cyclist already, then you will be well aware of some of the pressure we put on our bodies when cycling. Like the strain we feel in our muscles after a long ride. However, what we tend to not pay too much attention to is the effect cycling also has on our skin. Burns from the wind, abrasions, cold and hot temperatures are all elements that can take their toll on our skin.

So, here are a few skin care tips to consider before you go for a ride to help you prevent any skin issues that can get in your way.

1. Sun Cream

Make sure you have applied sun cream. The sun is a force to be reckoned with. Prolonged exposure can have some detrimental effects on the skin, causing sun burn, premature ageing and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Some may find their skin is sensitive to certain ingredients found in sun creams. So make sure you check the labels for any chemicals that you are allergic to or react with. Many people with eczema tend to find that a broad-spectrum mineral block (e.g those containing titanium dioxide) is best suited for their skin compared to those with chemical absorbers. Only downside is that these leaves white marks. Make sure that you use a high enough SPF, remember 96% of UVB rays are blocked by an SPF of 30.

2. Moisturise

Riding against the wind can make your skin dry and dehydrated which can lead to cracking. So it’s a good idea to keep your skin well moisturised. Check out our AproDerm^® Emollient Range for moisturisers that keep skin soothed, moisturised and protected. As they are free from common irritants and sensitisers they’re also gentle on your skin.

3. Protect

Get your self a good chamois or barrier cream. The anatomy around the seat area experiences constant abrasion and friction whilst cycling. A quality chamois or barrier cream will reduce friction and the chance of saddle sores. Oh and going commando lets the chamois work to its best potential. However, if that’s a little too adventurous wear loose fitting pants that allow your skin to breathe. You’ve got to take care of your delicate parts my friend, you’ll thank me later!

4. Hydrate

The simplest way to keep your skin hydrated is to drink plenty of water, both when on and off the bike. Water is essential for your bodily functions and dehydration can make you feel lightheaded and tired. So be sure to prepare for your bike ride by drinking plenty of water before, during and after your cycle.

5. Exfoliate

Exfoliating helps prevent ingrowing hairs by removing dead surface cells that trap the hair under the skin which can cause saddle sores. Hair is dense and there is a lot of friction around your groin area whilst cycling. Therefore it is important to make sure that when you exfoliate your body you remember this delicate area. Whether it is a physical exfoliant like sugar and salt scrubs or a chemical one, exfoliating your body will encourage your skin to keep looking young and healthy.

6. Clean Skin

Of course I don’t have to tell you however be sure to keep your skin clean in order to avoid skin irritation and infections. Take wet wipes with you so you can freshen up. Many soaps on the market can do your skin more harm than good by irritating or drying it out further. So make sure you choose your body cleanser wisely. Opt for a soap substitute instead, such as AproDerm^® Colloidal Oat Cream or AproDerm^® Emollient Cream for showering in after your long bike ride. AproDerm^® Colloidal Oat Cream exfoliates as well – so you get 2 for the price of 1!

So, that wraps up our 6 skin care tips for cycling, now on ya bike!