Buyer's guide: Cold creams for cycling in winter - Thick protection for cycling: 9 cold creams in the check

We explain what they can do, how they differ and what you should look out for. We were advised by Munich dermatologist and sports physician Dr Christoph Liebich

- The overview with the impressions from the practical test can be found below as a PDF download. - (Included are the products from Alterra, Avène, Balea, Born, Eutra, Ladival, La Roche-Posay and Weleda)

What exactly is a cold cream and how can I recognise it?
Cold creams are low-water, highly fatty protective creams that usually contain a high proportion of beeswax and fat. They insulate sensitive areas, protect against the cold and prevent the skin surface from drying out. Conventional creams, on the other hand, have a very high water content and can draw moisture from the skin in cold weather, which can lead to frostbite. Munich dermatologist Dr Christoph Liebich explains what is important when it comes to good cold creams: "Basically, the oilier the better. These ointments form a good protective film against wind, weather and water. The individual ingredients in cold creams usually differ only slightly."

On which parts of the body can cold creams be applied?
"Basically all over the body," says the expert. "If you already tend to have dry skin, it's good to apply a moisturiser, even under your clothes. On the other hand, if you already have oily skin and apply a thick layer of cream, it can be unpleasant." In addition, it is always worth taking a look at the package leaflet: some creams are not suitable for use on the face due to certain ingredients.

What is the difference to a warming cream?
In addition to cold protection creams, there are also creams that actively warm the skin. "Warming creams often contain ingredients such as capsaicin," explains the dermatologist. "The extract obtained from chilli peppers promotes blood circulation and stimulates the metabolism." Massaged into the skin before sport, the cream warms the body, makes the muscles more supple and prevents injuries at the same time. After sport, it helps with regeneration and can relieve tension.

At what temperature does a cold cream make sense?
"From a temperature of around seven degrees downwards, the skin is under greater strain and can no longer protect itself sufficiently with its own lipid film," explains Dr Liebich. When cycling, the so-called wind chill effect has an additional cooling effect. It reduces the temperature on uncovered skin by a further five to seven degrees - unpleasant and often painful. In extreme cases, this can result in partial frostbite of the skin. So it's high time to apply an ointment to the areas where clothing offers little or no protection. Our expert also reminds us of another detail: "Anyone who rides a road bike in the sun in sub-zero temperatures must also think about reliable sun protection."

Are cold creams suitable for all skin types?
Let's look at it pragmatically: freezing cold usually doesn't leave many alternatives. Our expert also recommends focussing on the protective function: "Normal skin tolerates the oily film that protects against frostbite well. If I cover acne-prone skin with a greasy cream, this will probably lead to even more spots; however, on a tour with really low temperatures, I have no choice but to cover the skin with a greasy cream - protection is more important. However, it is advisable to cleanse the skin after training to open the pores again."

Are there alternatives to a special cold cream?
Milking fats and classic Vaseline contain a lot of fat and form a strong greasy film when applied, which provides good protection against moisture and cold. However, they can also clog the skin so that it can no longer breathe.

What ingredients should cold creams contain?
It is worth taking a closer look at the composition of cold creams. This is because Vaseline & Co. in particular contain substances that are not always expected: "There is a debate among environmentally conscious consumers about ingredients such as paraffins or petroleum," says the dermatologist. "These substances are authorised ingredients. However, those who prefer to avoid them can opt for products that use other fats and oils instead." Ingredients such as plant extracts, cosmetic active ingredients or special lipids are said to be particularly compatible with the skin, have a soothing effect and reduce the freezing point of the cream.

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