essential skincare tips for mountain living
Skincare in the alpine mountains requires more care.
Living at a higher altitude brings its own set of rewards—crisp air, stunning views, and that invigorating feeling of being closer to the sky. But with all the beauty that mountain living brings, it also comes with challenges for your skin. Harsh winds, stronger sun exposure, and dry air can quickly take a toll. At Courtney Parkhill Skincare, we’ve crafted skincare solutions that honor the unique needs of mountain skin so you can feel radiant, no matter how high you climb.
Hydration, Hydration, Hydration.
The low humidity at high altitudes means that moisture in the air is scarce, making skin feel dry and tight. Opt for hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid to help your skin attract and retain water. Follow up with a rich moisturizer that creates a protective barrier against the elements, locking in hydration for longer periods.
SPF: Your Essential Companion Year Round.
Higher elevations mean increased exposure to UV rays, so SPF is your best friend in the mountains. I recommend a broad-spectrum SPF 40 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for mineral-based formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they offer natural protection that sits gently on the skin, perfect for sensitive or easily irritated skin in harsh climates.
I can’t tell you how many anecdotal cases of SNOW-BURN I’ve seen resulting in 2nd degree burns & ER visits. Please wear your SPF when skiing & snowboarding to protect from the bright sunlight reflecting off the snow to create DOUBLE the amount of UV exposure that reaches your skin. Even on cloudy days, UV rays are present. Also, please protect your eyes with polarized lenses to prevent snow blindness.
Combat the Wind Burn.
Mountain winds can be especially drying, often leading to wind burn, a condition that causes redness, flakiness, and even a raw feeling. To prevent wind burn, apply a nourishing protective shield on top of your moisturizer, focusing on areas prone to irritation, like your cheeks and nose. My favorite balm for everything your skin needs in the cold winter is Glymed Cell Protection Balm.
Don’t Forget Your Lips and Eyes.
The lips and eye area are often the most vulnerable to mountain air. Use a thick lip balm like Glymed Cell Protection Balm and always apply before bed to occlude for optimal nourishment while sleeping. For eyes try our Sea Moon Eye Balm, a nourishing peptide gel balm that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, keeping the delicate skin around your eyes nourished and protected.
Nighttime Recovery.
A well-thought-out nighttime routine is essential for recovery. After a day exposed to high altitude conditions, consider a hydrating mask or overnight treatment like our Glacial Soothe Oxygen Repair Mask. Ingredients like aloe, beta gluten, vitamin E, ceramides, marine peptides & wound-healing botanicals are excellent for restoring lost moisture and repairing damaged skin.
By adjusting your skincare routine to meet the unique demands of mountain living, you can protect, hydrate, and revitalize your skin every day. Embrace the alpine beauty without sacrificing your skin’s health!
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS: Shop Our High Altitude Skincare Here: Our Online Store
Wildflower Herbal Wash, Waterfall Quench Serum, Cloud Bliss Barrier Soothe Serum, Glymed Cell Protection Balm, Oceanic Glow, Glymed Barrier Restore Cream, Tropic Sol Mineral SPF 40, Colorescience Face Shield Glow, Glacial Soothe Oxygen Repair Mask.
Don’t forget to reapply spf every 2 hours when you’re on the slopes!
Warmly,
Your Esthetician,
Courtney Parkhill, L.E.