Bag Balm Original Skin Moisturizer — Ellington AgwayRob Lea’s Unconventional Skin Care Strategy for Endurance Swimming
Rob Lea, renowned for being the first to conquer both the Seven Summits and the Oceans Seven, has unveiled a unique skin protection regimen that contributed to his successful 12-hour swim across the Tsugaru Strait. This regimen involved the application of diaper rash cream and Bag Balm, a 125-year-old cow udder salve, to safeguard his skin during prolonged exposure to saltwater.
The Challenges of Extended Ocean Swimming
Extended periods in ocean water present significant challenges to swimmers’ skin. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can penetrate beneath the water’s surface, and saltwater can strip the skin of its natural protective barrier, leading to increased susceptibility to UV damage. Additionally, saltwater can draw moisture from the skin, causing dryness and irritation. Research indicates that skin exposed to saltwater becomes stiffer and more prone to drying stress, making it more susceptible to bacteria.
Innovative Skin Protection Techniques
To address these challenges, Lea and his partner, professional ski mountaineer Caroline Gleich, developed a two-pronged skin protection strategy:
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Sun Protection with Diaper Rash Cream: Lea applied Desitin Maximum Strength diaper rash cream, which contains 40% zinc oxide, to all exposed skin areas. This provided a physical barrier against UV rays, remaining effective for up to 12 hours and sealing out damaging moisture. For his face, Lea used Zinka, a similar reef-safe zinc oxide cream.
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Chafing Prevention with Bag Balm: After applying the diaper rash cream, Lea and Gleich focused on areas prone to friction, such as the armpits and neck. They applied Bag Balm, an all-purpose salve originally developed over 125 years ago to soothe irritated cow udders, to these high-friction spots. This served as an anti-chafing measure, protecting the skin from the abrasive effects of saltwater.
Outcome and Recovery
Despite the extensive skin protection measures, Lea experienced some chafing and mouth irritation due to saltwater exposure. However, he successfully completed the swim in just under 12 hours, marking the final leg of his Double Seven Challenge. Post-swim, Lea focused on recovery, likely utilizing moisturizing lotions and hydrating body wraps to aid skin healing.
Lea’s innovative use of diaper rash cream and Bag Balm underscores the importance of effective skin care strategies in endurance swimming, particularly during prolonged exposure to challenging conditions.