When surviving the outdoors for an extended period of time, your skin will be subjected to some conditions it may not appreciate. But let’s be honest, having luxurious skin care products on hand will be the least of your survival concerns.
However, there are some simple things you can do to protect your skin and keep it thriving as best as possible in a survival situation. You will need a few basic items to keep your skin happy and survive the most extreme conditions.
Skincare Survival Tips
Sunblock
Even in cooler temperatures, the sun's rays can wreak havoc on the skin if exposed for too long. Applying a quality sunblock is important regardless of the weather, if you will be outdoors for an extended period of time. Anything SPF 30 and above is ideal and using brands that are waterproof or sweat-proof could be extra helpful in survival situations.
Bug Spray
Protect your skin from bites by applying a layer of bug spray over your sunblock. The more natural, the better. You want to keep your skin breathing well so the less additives in the products, the better. Plus, natural bug deterrents are generally less sticky than sprays you might find over the counter. Try using citronella or peppermint oil.
Baseball Hat/Sun Cap
Even with sunblock on board, wearing a protective, full brim cap is very effective in protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Keep one in your bag. It will also come in handy if you are stuck in the rain.
Lavender Oil
Lavender essential oil is great for soothing minor skin irritations from cuts, bug bites and various types of burns. Apply a drop as needed. Make sure you choose a pure, non-synthetic oil. Keep a small bottle on hand and your skin will thank you.
Ointment/Balm
Keeping an ointment or balm on hand for general use will certainly come in handy. You can use it to protect your skin during extreme wind and cold while soothing dryness, irritation and minor skin issues. Apply to lips often when outdoors in both heat and cold.
Bandana/Scarf
Having an extra piece of light fabric can be extremely helpful and versatile for protecting you from wind, heat and cold. You can protect the back of your neck and chest from the sun or keep it warm from the cold. In windy situations, wear it around your face to create a shield.
Baby Wipes
Aside from the many other ways wipes can come in handy, giving your face a nice wipe down can feel incredible and help keep your skin clean. Keep a pack of unscented wipes in your survival kit.
Coconut Oil
If you can spare room for small container of coconut oil, you will likely not be disappointed. Coconut oil can be used as a moisturizer, balm for dry lips, skin soother and even cleanser if needed. It even has a natural SPF within it and although the amount is low and not stable, it could be a helpful sunblock in a pinch.
Depending on your survival situation, your skin might not be first priority but having some simple items on hand can make a huge difference in how you feel and keep you motivated to handle other circumstances. Having a massive sunburn or even windburn can lead to other complications and create a spiral effect of issues. Keep these simple tips on hand to avoid these issues.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on September 11, 2019, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
