Sunblock

Even in cooler temperatures, the sun’s rays can wreak havoc on the skin if exposed for too long. Applying a quality sunblock is important regardless of the weather, if you will be outdoors for an extended period of time. Anything SPF 30 and above is ideal and using brands that are waterproof or sweat-proof could be extra helpful in survival situations.

Bug Spray

Protect your skin from bites by applying a layer of bug spray over your sunblock. The more natural, the better. You want to keep your skin breathing well so the less additives in the products, the better. Plus, natural bug deterrents are generally less sticky than sprays you might find over the counter. Try using citronella or peppermint oil.

Baseball Hat/Sun Cap

Even with sunblock on board, wearing a protective, full brim cap is very effective in protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Keep one in your bag. It will also come in handy if you are stuck in the rain.

Lavender Oil

Lavender essential oil is great for soothing minor skin irritations from cuts, bug bites and various types of burns. Apply a drop as needed. Make sure you choose a pure, non-synthetic oil. Keep a small bottle on hand and your skin will thank you.

Ointment/Balm

Keeping an ointment or balm on hand for general use will certainly come in handy. You can use it to protect your skin during extreme wind and cold while soothing dryness, irritation and minor skin issues. Apply to lips often when outdoors in both heat and cold.

Bandana/Scarf

Having an extra piece of light fabric can be extremely helpful and versatile for protecting you from wind, heat and cold. You can protect the back of your neck and chest from the sun or keep it warm from the cold. In windy situations, wear it around your face to create a shield.

Baby Wipes

Aside from the many other ways wipes can come in handy, giving your face a nice wipe down can feel incredible and help keep your skin clean. Keep a pack of unscented wipes in your survival kit.

Coconut Oil

If you can spare room for small container of coconut oil, you will likely not be disappointed. Coconut oil can be used as a moisturizer, balm for dry lips, skin soother and even cleanser if needed. It even has a natural SPF within it and although the amount is low and not stable, it could be a helpful sunblock in a pinch.

Depending on your survival situation, your skin might not be first priority but having some simple items on hand can make a huge difference in how you feel and keep you motivated to handle other circumstances. Having a massive sunburn or even windburn can lead to other complications and create a spiral effect of issues. Keep these simple tips on hand to avoid these issues.

Read more: survivallife.com

The post Skincare Survival Tips appeared first on American Survival Gear.

Some side effects and risks of dehydration include:

Low energy Exhaustion Heat-related illnesses Brain swelling Seizures Hypovolemic shock Organ failure Death

But again, panic will not get you hydrated so try to stay calm and remember these few things. Study these tips to help get you through those initial days to help preserve your health and hydration.

Don’t SWEAT the Small Stuff

It might be a saying you hear but in this case, take it pretty literal. Think about it for a moment. When we have no fluid to take in, we want to do our best to keep as much in our bodies as we can. So do not overexert yourself to the point of sweating. Try to reserve your energy. If you are in the heat, stay as cool as possible and keep mandatory physical activity to the coolest times of the day. Sweating is the top way to get dehydrated quickly when you have nothing to replenish your body.

Collect Water ASAP

You might not have your own water stash to work with but use mother nature to help you out. Set up anything you can to collect possible rain water or morning dew. Think gravity. You will want to hoist up tarps at an angle in collection cups to allow drops to flow downward and collect. Even collecting a few sips is better than nothing at all. In the morning, take a cloth and soak up the morning dew on the grass/plants and then wring out to get a few sips. Be very conservative if you collect some and use it sparingly to stretch it over time, just in case.

Follow the Tracks

Take some time to learn about following animals tracks and practice whenever you have the opportunity. It could very well save your life if you end up in a survival situation. When in the wilderness and without water, follow the tracks of animals. Typically in the morning time and again around sunset, animals will seek out fresh water sources and you might be fortunate enough to be lead directly to some fresh water. Just be mindful of the tracks and types of animals you are following as you don’t want to end up in danger!

Knowing how to purify water is an essential skill for survival. Check out another article about this HERE and keep your water sanitary and safe for drinking as you collect. Hydration is absolutely necessary for survival above all things. When in a possible survival scenario, it is wise to look for water sources even before these become a true problem. Being prepared is the key to surviving.

Read more: survivallife.com

The post How to Survive Without Water appeared first on American Survival Gear.