Hannah is our resident copywriter and an expert on organic and natural beauty. An outdoor enthusiast, she runs the Instagram @thetrailtourists and recently returned from a summer hiking holiday in the Austrian Alps.
Here she shares the hiking skin care essentials she was glad she packed in her hiking holiday backpack.
My hiking skin care essentials
Hiker’s SPF
While the fresh mountain air of the Alps always feels lovely and cool, I’m extra sun-conscious when walking there, especially when I’m walking in areas that are high above sea level.
To protect my skin from strong sunlight, I plan my hikes for the morning or early evening and apply my hiking SPF at least 20 minutes before going outside.
I travel as light as possible, but I always reserve space in my hiking backpack for Green People’s travel-size Scent Free Sun Cream SPF30, sunglasses and my other hiking essentials, including a good sun hat and an energy-boosting snack.
Scent Free Sun Cream - SPF30 100ml
Protect sensitive skin on the go with this travel-friendly SPF30 sun cream
308 kr
As I walk, I keep my eyes peeled for Edelweiss, a hero ingredient used in almost all Green People sun creams. Considered a symbol of Austria, this special alpine plant evolved at high altitudes and has impressive UV-protective properties. Find out more about Edelweiss.
Hiking up those steep alpine hills is hard work, so I'm always grateful that the skin-kind formula of my favourite hiking SPF is water-resistant. Still, I reapply it every couple of hours in case it has slipped off due to sweat.
Hiker’s deodorant
Speaking of sweat, if there’s one skin care staple no hiker should be without, it’s a good hiking deodorant. I always feel fresh and protected with Green People’s Aloe Vera and Prebiotics Deodorant.
Clinically proven to be gentle on sensitive skin, I can take on the hiking trails with confidence, knowing it won't sting or irritate.
Aloe Vera & Prebiotics Deodorant 75ml
Keep your skin beautifully fresh and balanced with our Aloe Vera deodorant
196 kr
Hiker’s balm
I’ve just bought new hiking boots and packed extra-thick socks, as well as plenty of plasters, in case they rub my heels.
One of my favourite hiking tips is to apply a little One Balm to the heel; it makes new shoes feel much more comfortable, plus the balm is multi-purpose and can be used as a hiking lip balm and brow balm, great for travelling light.
ONE Balm 30ml
Use this organic multi-purpose beauty balm to soothe lips, cuticles and dry skin
210 kr
Hiker’s massage oil
One of my favourite places to hike in Austria is Längenfeld in Ötztal, Austria. The views over the suspension bridge are spectacular, making it a popular destination for hikers of all levels. The climb to the bridge is steep, though, and I soon felt the strain in my calves.
That’s why I was glad I packed Time to Ease Massage Oil. I apply it after a shower back at the hotel, and its soothing touch and invigorating Eucalyptus aroma soon help to calm any niggles.
Alexandra Kay Time to Ease Muscle Relax Body Oil 100ml
Melt away muscle tension with this certified organic body and massage oil
448 kr
Hiker’s insect repellent
There are so many incredible waterfalls and lakes to explore on a hiking holiday in Austria, Pilburg Sea lakes is a personal favourite of mine, but where there’s water, there are bugs, meaning anti-mosquito skin cream is a must, especially on evening hikes.
If I’m walking in the early evening, I choose Moisturising After Sun with Insect Repellent. Not only does this soothing Aloe Vera after sun feel oh-so cooling on the skin, but thanks to Citrepel® 75, it’s a very practical, DEET-free way to keep biting insects at bay. I highly recommend it!
Moisturising After Sun with Insect Repellent 100ml
Soothe, hydrate and protect with this organic after sun with insect repellent
252 kr
My top packing tips for hiking in Austria
- Pack light
- Pack for all weathers. In the mountains, the weather moves quickly making weather gear a must-pack
- Pack binoculars so that you can observe wildlife without disturbing them in their habitat
- Pack swimwear so that you can cool off after a lakeside walk
My top treks for hiking in Austria
- Best for view seekers: Suspension Bridge, Längenfeld
- Best for families: The Trail of Legends: Ötztaler Sagenweg, Längenfeld
- Best for adventurers: The 700-step Stuibenfall waterfall trail, Ötztal, Tyrol
- Best for swimmers: The "Wasserläufer Piburger See Oetz" trail
We hope that you have found this guide to hikers’ skin care helpful. For help building the best natural skin care routine for your next hiking holiday, visit our skin care finder tool or contact our friendly UK customer care team on 01403 740350 or @GreenPeopleUK.
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