The years between 2012 and 2014 saw a great increase in the cycling population or bike riders in the U.S. By 2016, the country recorded as many as 66.5 million cyclists and bike riders. The popularity of the sport can be credited to the fact that it is a fun and adventurous hobby to keep in perfect health. However, Luis Herrera, South America’s first Grand Tour champion says that it is this sport that gave him skin cancer owing to the constant exposure of his skin to the sun. Moreover, sunburn cyclists are also subjected to harsh weather conditions, pollution, stress, road rashes and aching muscles on a continuous basis. For overall health, just boosting the hip strength while cycling is never enough. Feeding nutrients to the body and exposed skin is equally crucial so that cycling continues to remain a healthy sport. Recent studies have revealed how several oils can become an integral part of a cyclist’s daily care ritual.
Skin and hair care with oils
We all admire the energetic, well-toned athlete with glowing skin racing past the cycling tracks. For an even more glowing look, experts have spilled the beans recommending moisturizing the skin with pure coconut oil which is loaded with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It also makes an effective deep conditioner for the hair. Massage your hair with some of this oil right before your cycling trip. To combat pollution, use the anti-oxidant rich Chia seed oil for your skin and hair which works by forming a protective film barring the pollutants.
Cycling under the bright sunshine is probably one of the greatest pleasures of life, but continuous exposure to sunlight leads to premature aging, sunburn and even skin cancer. So while wearing a hat and glasses is a must, applying sunscreen is most important when going for a bike ride in the daytime. Go for a chemical-free red raspberry oil which has a high SPF between 30 and 50, and stay sun safe naturally.
Use oils for health
Cyclists often have to ride in the pouring rain and through cold, blustery weather for miles. For them, embrocations made with certain oils really help in warming up the muscles. The embrocations form a protective layer on the skin. The blood flow to the muscles is boosted and any injured muscles are healed rapidly. Most of these embrocations are made with the oils of sesame, grapeseed, and soybean. Cycling in the harsh sub-zero temperatures and chilling winds cause the skin of the hands and legs to become hard, sore, calloused and cracked. Treating those tired limbs to a bowl of warm water infused with sweet almond oil is very soothing. This can be followed up with an olive oil scrub for softening the tissues and replenishing the dead cells.
Cycling is a healthy and fun sport, but with it comes the responsibility to enjoy it sensibly by taking care of your skin, body, and hair. Natural oils are the best alternative for healing any skin injuries and conditions and helping the muscles work to their optimum best.
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