Debunking common skincare myths for climbers: skin care for rock climbers
Climbing can be rough on your hands. The skin on your palms and fingers takes a beating as you grip rough surfaces, battle friction, and endure the elements. Despite the many benefits of climbing, from fitness to mental clarity, it often leaves your hands feeling raw, cracked, and sore. Unfortunately, there's a lot of misinformation about how climbers should care for their skin. In this blog post, we'll debunk some common skincare myths and provide an easy guide to keeping your hands in top shape.
Myth 1: “Tough, callused skin is always better”
Many climbers believe that the tougher and thicker their calluses are, the better they'll perform. While having some callus buildup is beneficial for preventing blisters and providing protection, excessively thick calluses can become problematic. They can catch on holds, tear easily, and create painful rips that can sideline you from climbing.
Myth 2: “Moisturizing weakens your skin”
Another common myth is that moisturizers soften your skin too much, making it more prone to tears. In reality, keeping your skin hydrated is crucial for its health and resilience. Dry, cracked skin is more likely to tear than well-moisturized skin. The key is to find the right balance—keeping your skin tough but also supple and resilient.
Myth 3: “Skin problems are just part of climbing”
Many climbers think that persistent skin problems—like cracks, splits, and peeling—are simply part of the sport and can’t be avoided. While some wear and tear is inevitable, chronic skin issues often result from improper care. With the right skincare routine, you can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of these problems.
An easy guide to climber's hand care
Taking care of your hands doesn't have to be complicated. By following these simple steps, you can keep your skin healthy and minimize downtime from skin injuries.
1. Regularly file your calluses
Calluses are essential for climbing, but as mentioned, excessively thick calluses can become a problem. Regular filing helps maintain a manageable thickness. Use a pumice stone or a fine grit file to gently smooth down your calluses, especially after a session when your skin is soft from sweat. Be careful not to overdo it; the goal is to keep them even with the surrounding skin, not to remove them entirely.
2. Moisturize wisely
Moisturizing is crucial, but timing and product choice are key. After filing your calluses or after a climbing session, apply a climbing-specific balm or a thick, non-greasy moisturizer. Ingredients like beeswax, lanolin, and shea butter are great for locking in moisture without making your hands too soft. Apply the moisturizer at night to give your skin time to absorb it without interfering with your climbing.
3. Maintain skin hydration
Keeping your skin hydrated from the inside out is also important. Drink plenty of water, especially during and after climbing sessions. Proper hydration helps your skin stay flexible and resilient, reducing the risk of cracks and splits.
4. Tape strategically
If you notice a developing hot spot or minor tear, tape it before it worsens. Climbing tape can protect the skin from further damage and help prevent painful rips. However, don’t rely on tape too much—it's better to address the root cause by adjusting your skincare routine.
5. Rest and recovery
Sometimes the best way to care for your skin is to give it a break. If your hands are especially raw or damaged, take a rest day to let them heal. This downtime will allow your skin to repair and rebuild, preventing minor issues from becoming major ones.
6. Beproactive about treatment
If you do get a tear or split, clean it thoroughly and apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Cover it with a bandage, but give it some air when possible to aid the healing process. For deeper cuts or persistent issues, consider seeing a dermatologist.
It’s all about the long game
Climbers often wear their hand injuries like badges of honor, but taking good care of your skin isn't a sign of weakness—it's a smart strategy for staying in the game longer. By debunking these common myths and following a simple, effective hand care routine, you can keep your hands healthy, tough, and ready for your next climb. Happy climbing!
Anything we forgot to mention? Leave it in the comments👇