The rainy season has finally ended, and the hot summer is here again.
In summer, our skin is inevitably more exposed, and many people are likely taking various measures against UV rays and sunburn. However, this isn't just limited to summer; UV rays in winter should not be underestimated, and skin also tends to get dry.
Despite appearances, I take care of my skin and maintain a daily routine. It didn't bother me much when I was a student, but as an adult, I worry about dark spots, wrinkles, and freckles... Plus, riding a bicycle every day brings constant skin concerns, from sunburn and dryness to saddle soreness.
I'd like to introduce the items I use regularly, especially when I'm riding my bike!
First up is Sun Protect “Fighter”, a sunscreen for athletes released by "Aggressive Design," a brand launched by Wako Chemical, famous for their WAKO’S oil.
Have you ever had the experience of needing to reapply sunscreen repeatedly because it washed off due to sweat or rain while you were out, no matter how strong it was? Many people likely try using arm covers or have simply given up on it altogether.
Fighter focuses on exactly that, acting as a sunscreen that is hard to wash off even when you sweat, as it repels external moisture but is not repelled by your own sweat. It also features carefully selected ingredients: an SPF 50+ rating to block UV-B rays, which cause skin inflammation, and a PA++++ rating to block UV-A rays, which cause tanning and accelerate aging through dark spots and wrinkles. It is formulated with skin-friendly plant extracts for moisturizing and conditioning, so it keeps your skin beautiful without damaging it—no extra cosmetics required. Plus, it doesn't smudge much, which is a big plus for women.
Also, for sports where you are exposed to the sun for long hours, such as cycling, physical overheating and skin damage from sunburn lead directly to fatigue. Therefore, applying sunscreen is a secret to taking care of your body so you don't wear yourself out.
As for the feel, it doesn't have the stickiness common in traditional sunscreens; it blends smoothly into the skin and leaves a matte finish. Because it spreads well, you don't need to use a large amount at once, and above all, you don't have to waste time reapplying it, which helps you save on the amount used. You do need to use the dedicated "Waterproof Cleansing Oil / S" to remove it, but that is simply because of its high performance.
It’s great not only for sports but also for leisure activities like camping or going to the beach, so please experience its effectiveness for yourself. Summer is a pleasant season to enjoy in short sleeves, so let's enjoy various activities without worrying about sunburn!
The next item I recommend is a lip cream created through a collaboration between PAPERSKY, a travel lifestyle magazine from Japan that explores the world with the concept of an "in-flight magazine read on the ground," and "naiad." PAPERSKY is interested in people and the places behind them, introducing the nature, culture, and lifestyles of various countries and cities, as well as the beauty of Japan seen from both "inside" and "outside," while sharing stories that enrich your travels.
The handmade container made of rosewood is branded with the PAPERSKY paper airplane logo. Based on wild beeswax and sunflower oil from Nepal, alpine rhododendron oil keeps your lips moist and smooth, and it features a calm sweetness with a faint cooling scent. If your mouth gets chapped and you can't open it, it can affect your breathing, so even just keeping your lips moisturized can improve performance. It’s a size that’s easy to slip into your pocket, making it perfect for cycling, hiking, and activities in the colder seasons. It can also be used as a nail cream, hand cream, or hair wax, not just for your lips.
Finally, regarding saddle soreness: the area is extremely delicate, and I think many women struggle with it. I also suffered from this pain, and the savior I found was "Chamois Cream." By applying this to the pad or directly to your skin, it creates a thin layer between the two, reducing friction and keeping your skin comfortable. It not only prevents inflammation but also has antibacterial properties. Since I started using chamois cream, my pain has been significantly alleviated. Sometimes I even feel anxious now if I head out for a ride without applying it.
As for how and how much to apply, there is no single right way; people apply it to their bodies, to the pad, to both, only where they tend to get sore, in thin layers, or heavily—everyone has their own preference.
If you are considering changing your saddle or bike fit, why not try chamois cream first? It might just resolve your concerns. I introduced the one from ASSOS that I love, but many manufacturers make them with different textures and ingredients, so it’s good to try a few out.
Also, since the container itself is large, I sometimes transfer some cream into a smaller container to carry with me for long rides or trips. If the inflammation is very severe, I sometimes use Oronine H Ointment instead of chamois cream. However, Oronine H Ointment is not intended to reduce friction but is a medicinal ointment, and whether it works for you depends on the individual, so please take this only as a reference.
In addition to the items I’ve introduced, I also carry things like hand towels and insect repellent. Everyone’s essential items differ, but why not gather your own set of must-haves? The items introduced here can be used in your daily life, not just on rides, so please give them a try. If you want to know more, feel free to ask us in the store!
