Ski-ncredible: Beauty hacks and trends to help you look after your hair and skin on the slopes

According to the latest statistics, 10% of the British population are skiing participants, with many travelling on winter skiing holidays and many more seeking the year-round thrills of destinations such as Canada and Japan.

Many skiers will be documenting their travels on social media, meaning looking good on the slopes has never been more important.

Gary Clark, Academy Director at Basecamp, said: “Your self-care routine is crucial in keeping you looking radiant and feeling confident while out on the mountains and is the perfect antidote to the obligatory weather-beaten skin, tangled hair, and aching muscles.

“Fortunately, we’ve compiled a handy list of skiing skincare and beauty tips to keep you looking just as bright as the bluebird skies you’re skiing beneath.”

Here’s some inspiration:

Choose an SPF

Don’t let the colder temperatures deceive you: a good-quality SPF is non-negotiable.

According to the Global UV Index report by the World Health Organization, fresh snow can “reflect as much as 80% of UV radiation” with higher altitudes also causing a 10% to 12% increase in radiation levels.

Once you’ve stocked up on sun cream, reapply every few hours to protect your skin from the sun and keep it moisturised. Dryness will typically leave your skin more vulnerable to damage from UV rays.

Apply liberally, and you may even return with an impressive tan.

What does TikTok say?

TikTok is a treasure trove of ideas waiting to be explored, from innovative products to DIY masks. Bear these in mind for your skiing holiday or gap year ski season:

When applying makeup, be sure to blend it well to avoid noticeable lines where your goggles or helmet rest. One user advises first prepping the skin with a hydration skin replenishing gel before finishing with tanning drops and light eyeshadow for that flawless bounce and glow.

For longer hair, look to tie it up in plaits or a ponytail to prevent matting at the back. When tied up, coat the hair with a Kérastase elixir oil. After a long day’s skiing, take your plaits out for that wavy look.

Also, don’t forget a lip balm to stay moisturised and prevent chapped lips.

Some Japanese Beauty Secrets

Gary Clark, Academy Director at Basecamp continued: “Japan continues to be a world-leading destination for snowsports, and its all-year-round credentials have won it increasing praise recently in light of climate change concerns.

“The country is not just a skier’s paradise either. Japanese beauty traditions have long been admired for their emphasis on simplicity, effectiveness and natural ingredients.”

How about adding some of these to your current routine?

Camellia Oil

This centuries-old ingredient is a beauty secret for today. Known as "Tsubaki" in Japanese, camellia oil is celebrated for its moisturising properties.

Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it helps combat dryness and nourishes both the skin and hair.

Incorporating camellia oil into your routine before hitting the slopes can provide a protective barrier against windburn and harsh winter elements.

Matcha

Beyond being the trendy beverage du moment, matcha has found its way into beauty routines for its antioxidant-rich properties.

When applied topically, it can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness caused by exposure to cold winds.

Consider a matcha-infused face mask to revitalise your skin after a day on the ski slopes.

Rice Bran

Rice bran, or "Nuka," is a staple in Japanese skincare. Packed with vitamins, it offers gentle exfoliation and helps maintain skin elasticity.

Look for products containing rice bran to achieve a radiant complexion while basking in the afterglow of your outdoor pursuits.

Yuzu

The aromatic yuzu fruit is a popular ingredient in Japanese skincare, renowned for its citrusy brightening and rejuvenating properties.

Products infused with yuzu extract can add a refreshing touch to your ski holiday routine, combating the dullness that often accompanies exposure to cold temperatures.

Conclusion

When visiting a new country, it pays to soak up some of the culture, and that also extends to local beauty acts.

Add these tips to your current regime and keep your hair and beauty very much on-piste.