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Bodycare,  FEATURES,  HEALTH,  Product Reviews

Body care: skin protection creams

Editor Ella tries and tests the best skin protection creams and repair balms to soothe skin after cold-water dips.

Reviews checked & updated: September 2023

Being outdoors in the colder months can be tough on our skin. Try these skin protection creams and repair balms to soothe skin after chilly dips.

Skin protection cream

PIZ BUIN MOUNTAIN SUN CREAM & LIPSTICK

£8.50

Especially designed for high altitude conditions – so excellent for cold weather. Protects skin from the sun, provides long-lasting moisturisation and blocks extreme cold and wind. The small and convenient cream-lipstick combo means it can easily fit in your pocket.


Skin protection creams

WELEDA CALENDULA SKIN PROTECTION BALM

£9.75

Not just for babies! This is made to protect all skin from wind, cold and harsh weather. It smells wonderful and smooths onto skin easily. Feels rich but light and not oily. You can also use on lips and great if you have sensitive skin.


Skin protection cream

PREMAX WEATHER DEFENCE CREAM

£14.99

Exercise-specific facial cream which creates a barrier against cold and windy conditions. It can be paired with Premax Sunscreen for ultimate protection. Again smells wonderful and has a lovely consistency.


Skin protection cream

AESOP ELEMENTAL FACIAL BARRIER CREAM

£43.00

This is more expensive but such a lovely product. It is intensely nourishing and provides a soothing barrier. Great for sensitive skin and protecting the skin from harsh conditions.


Skin protection cream

CORNISH WILD SEAWEED SKIN REPAIR BALM

£7.50

This reminds me of Vaseline but is so much nicer. Smells lovely and not as sticky. Loved using it on my lips as well as dry knuckles. Also great to smooth over cheeks before heading into windy weather, creating a lovely barrier and skin glow.


We have a related review page for shampoo for swimmers and many more stories about swimmers’ health, body care and nutrition. If you buy a product through a link on this page we may receive a commission.

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Ella is renowned outdoor swimmer and journalist. As well as leading the editorial, digital and experiential outputs for Outdoor Swimmer she is also Director of Dip Advisor, a swim guiding business helping people enjoy wild water. Ella also teaches swimming to children and adults, is an Open Water Coach and RLSS Open Water Lifeguard.