The ultimate recipe for strong and healthy climber skin
You will need:
- Nail Clippers
- A skin file/fine sandpaper
- A non-waxy moisturiser (such as Climb On! Bar or Creme).
- Climbing tape (for troubleshooting)
Method (adjust according to requirements):
Before climbing:
- Cut your fingernails to avoid hangnails, split nails or that horrible screeching sound when you crimp.
- Wash your hands: residue grease and oil won’t do anything for your grip on that sloper, nor will it make you any friends.
- Moisturise (yes really!) at least 2 hours before your session – moisturised skin is flexible, elastic, and far less likely to split or break than rock hard skin.
During climbing:
- Listen to your skin – file any splits and tears as they arise and cut your session short if you sustain substantial damage.
- Watch your chalk usage – too much of any alcohol-based chalk (liquid chalk) can really dry out your skin, making it more susceptible to injury.
After climbing:
- File your calluses: what start out as blisters for beginners soon develop into strong and healthy calluses on your fingers and the tops of your palms. These should be flat and smooth; if they’re frayed or protrude from your skin, they’re more likely to rip or tear. File them down with sandpaper or a skin file.
- Wash your hands: it’s hygienic, feels good and preps your hands for the next step…
- Moisturise AGAIN (with that non-waxy hand salve we mentioned earlier) to nourish your skin and help it regenerate. Some people do this before bed.