Salt-rimmed eye bags

[shootingstar]

This seems to be a problem, that is actually causing some drying skin and premature wrinkles for me..

Past years, my eyes seem to water more, plus my sweat seems to run into my eyes. 'Course I don't always stop to wipe out the sweat behind my eyes. Nor do I want to wear a sweat band when the temp. are warm and I'm wearing a helmet.

So air movement dries out the sweat, watering eyes as I bike along. Then I get off bike..and ach! there are smudges of salt dried underneath my eyes. Looks like my skin is drying out there ..and leading to wrinkles.

Throwing on skin moisturizer isn't going to solve this problem while I'm biking.

Am I the only person with this problem/hang-up?

[Grog]

I don't have the answer, but you should see my father in law! (Dermatologist and cyclist.)

[Biciclista]

i think the sun is worse for your skin than the salt!

I get some of that too when it is cold out.

[Grog]

In the meantime (before you see my beloved father-in-law ) I'd suggest perhaps a fine coat of vaseline. I smear it all over my cheeks and under my nose when running in the winter. Of course in the summer it will be less pleasant, but just a very fine coat, just where you need it, might work.

[shootingstar]

My skin still breaks out occasionally so vaseline may not be the best. I still need skin protection from my sun block..if I haven't sweated away that also during the ride.

[HoosierGiant]

Then I get off bike..and ach! there are smudges of salt dried underneath my eyes.

Am I the only person with this problem/hang-up?

Been there, done that! Winter riding is especially bad because the cold air means my eyes water continually. But, any windy day (and we've had our fair share this spring) will produce the same result. I finish many a ride with salt-encrusted eyes and a white trail down my left cheek.

I've often wondered if cycling-specific glasses would alleviate the problem, but cost and prescription issues have kept me from exploring that option. I just consider the crusties a badge of honor!

[Caroline]

I wear a cycling cap under my helmet and it does absorb most of the sweat.

[NbyNW]

I bought a Halo head band for my perpetually un-prepared DH last year. He does not like heat, and he loses a lot of salt too. I think it worked pretty well, since he wore it all through a three-day ride and it would leave a silly imprint on his forehead.

Or you could make regular stops, wash your face, dab your eyes with fresh water, and re-apply your sunscreen. If you want to save all your water for drinking, you can get some nice pre-moistened facial wipes at the drug store.