How To Prep Skin Before And After Ouray Hot Springs

Want to know the secret behind enjoying Ouray Hot Springs while keeping your skin healthy? Most people love the relaxing soak but skip important steps that protect their skin before and after. Our years of helping clients at Sage Spa has taught us how to balance the amazing benefits of hot springs with the right skin protection and aftercare.

Natural mineral waters provide therapeutic benefits, but they can be tough on your skin’s moisture barrier. Your skin reacts differently based on mineral concentrations, pH levels, and heat exposure. The big temperature shift between hot water soaks and cool mountain air needs special attention to maintain your skin’s health.

Table Of Contents:

  1. How To Prepare Your Skin Before Soaking In Ouray Hot Springs
  2. What To Do During Your Hot Spring Soak To Protect Your Skin
  3. How To Restore And Nourish Your Skin
  4. Conclusion
  5. FAQs

This detailed guide shows you everything about getting your skin ready, protecting it during your visit, and taking care of it afterward. These practical tips help you get the most from Ouray’s healing waters while keeping your skin healthy and glowing.

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How To Prepare Your Skin Before Soaking In Ouray Hot Springs

The difference between a refreshing hot springs experience and skin irritation lies in proper skin preparation. Let me share how you can prepare your skin for these mineral-rich waters.

Your body needs proper hydration. Make sure you drink plenty of water at least two hours before your soak. Your skin will respond better to the minerals and heat of Ouray Hot Springs when it’s well-hydrated.

Take time to remove all makeup, lotions, and skincare products. These products might react badly with the mineral-rich waters and block your skin from getting the natural benefits of the springs. Our clients have experienced breakouts just because they didn’t remove products properly.

Your skin needs time to recover after shaving or exfoliating, so skip these activities right before your visit. Tiny openings in freshly treated skin can become irritated from minerals and heat.

A quick rinse in cool water helps your skin adjust to temperature changes before you enter the springs. This simple step also removes surface impurities effectively.

People with sensitive skin should apply a thin layer of natural oil like coconut or jojoba oil as a light barrier. Sage Spa provides pre-soak skin consultations if you need help understanding your skin type and needs.

The image shows a hot spring pool with steaming water, surrounded by wooden buildings under a clear blue sky. Snow-capped mountains rise beautifully in the background, creating a relaxing and scenic mountain resort atmosphere.

Light, mineral-based sun protection works best instead of heavy moisturizers or water-resistant sunscreens. This approach helps preserve the purity of the natural hot spring waters.

What To Do During Your Hot Spring Soak To Protect Your Skin

The ideal time to soak in the healing waters at Ouray Hot Springs is about 15-20 minutes per session. Multiple short dips work better for your skin than one long soak.

Keep a water bottle close by and take small sips often. Heat and minerals can quickly drain your body’s moisture, so maintaining good hydration helps protect your skin’s moisture balance.

Your body will tell you when it’s time to get out. Red, wrinkled, or uncomfortable skin means you should leave the springs right away. Your skin knows best!

The mineral-rich water can irritate your face’s delicate skin, so it’s best to keep your face above water. A gentle pat works better than rubbing if water splashes on your face.

Regular breaks from the hot water help your body manage its temperature better. Visitors at Sage Spa have discovered that switching between hot soaks and cool air creates the best experience for both relaxation and skin care.

How To Restore And Nourish Your Skin

What does your skin need right after coming out of those mineral-rich waters? Your skin needs to restore moisture and balance its pH during this vital post-soak period. The beneficial minerals from Ouray Hot Springs can stay on your skin without proper care.

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A quick rinse with cool, fresh water right after your soak makes a difference. This removes extra minerals that could dry on your skin and cause irritation. Use a soft towel to pat your skin dry instead of rubbing to protect your sensitive skin.

Your skin needs hydration once it’s dry. Get a good moisturizer on within five minutes after drying off to seal in that hydration. Our botanical moisturizers work perfectly with hot springs therapy.

Your face needs gentle products. The springs’ minerals can make your face feel tight or dry. A hydrating serum and face cream help restore balance.

Water intake matters just as much as what you put on your skin. Hot springs can dehydrate you even after you’ve left the water. Drink plenty of water to help your skin recover naturally.

Aloe vera gel helps if you notice any redness or sensitivity. Your skin needs about 24 hours to readjust, so skip harsh skincare products during this time.

Person receiving a facial treatment with a dark face mask and eye patches while lying under a towel.

Special facial treatments can boost the detox benefits and take care of any mineral buildup. But the best option is to go for a hot springs recovery treatment that uses local botanicals that enhance the mineral experience.

Conclusion

Your experience at Ouray Hot Springs becomes magical when you pair it with the right skincare routine. We’ve seen countless clients benefit from proper preparation and aftercare that protects their skin’s natural barrier.

The hot springs therapy does wonders for your well-being, though it can challenge your skin at times. These mineral-rich waters offer therapeutic benefits but need careful attention before, during, and after your soak. Your body needs proper hydration at every stage of the hot springs experience.

The pre-soak steps give your skin the best shot at soaking up benefits without irritation. The recommended soaking time helps you avoid the dehydrating effects of staying too long in the water. Your skin will tell you when it’s time to step out of the mineral waters – just listen to it.

Those first few minutes after your soak matters a lot. Quick rinsing and moisturizing help lock in hydration and restore your skin’s natural balance. Your skin bounces back faster and keeps that therapeutic glow longer.

Our clients tell me they see a huge difference in their skin when they follow these steps. Taking those extra few minutes for proper skincare pays off – your skin rewards you with better texture, strength, and radiance.

First-time visitors and regulars at Ouray Hot Springs can both benefit from this complete skincare approach. Without doubt, you’ll get the most out of your experience by combining the healing minerals with smart skin protection. This lets you enjoy all the benefits without any drawbacks.

FAQs

How should I prepare my skin before visiting Ouray Hot Springs? 

Before your visit, hydrate well, remove all makeup and skincare products, and avoid shaving or exfoliating. Consider applying a thin layer of natural oil if you have sensitive skin, and opt for mineral-based sun protection.

What’s the ideal soaking time in Ouray Hot Springs? 

The recommended soaking time is 15-20 minutes per session. It’s better to take shorter, repeated soaks rather than one extended immersion to protect your skin.

How can I protect my skin during the hot spring soak? 

Stay hydrated, avoid submerging your face in the water, and take periodic cooling breaks. Pay attention to your body’s signals and exit the springs if you notice excessive redness or discomfort.

What should I do immediately after soaking in the hot springs? 

Rinse thoroughly with cool, fresh water to remove excess minerals. Pat your skin dry gently, and apply a high-quality moisturizer within five minutes to lock in hydration.

Are there any post-soak skincare practices I should follow? 

Avoid harsh skincare products for 24 hours after your soak. Continue to hydrate by drinking water, and consider applying aloe vera gel if you experience any redness or sensitivity. A specialized post-soak facial treatment can also be beneficial.

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→ Relax with personalized treatments for body and mind
→ Restore balance through expert therapies and skincare solutions
→ Enhance long term health and beauty with consistent care

Book your spa experience today and enjoy the benefits that last beyond your visit.

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About Beth Bridges

Beth Bridges is the Assistant General Manager at Sage Spa Ouray, located in Ouray, Colorado. With over seven years of experience at Sage Spa Ouray, Beth has become a cornerstone of the lodge’s operations, ensuring guests have an exceptional experience while embracing the beauty of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. A passionate traveler and perpetual tourist, she enjoys capturing the natural splendor of the area through photography, which enhances her appreciation for the location she calls home.

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