Summer is here, which means suns out, guns out! And with any outdoor workout right now, taking care of your skin is just as important as the workout itself. That means things like sunblock, chamois cream, and post-workout care are something that you need to consider, all of which are vegan and cruelty-free. We connected with Zealios to learn more about their products and got the full line in for review. This time, I’ll walk you through the line-up, and I’ll have reviews coming once I’ve had a chance to really try everything out.
So, I’m breaking their products up into two categories, pre- and post-ride. Pre-ride includes their Sun Barrier SPF 45 Zinc Sunscreen and Betwixt Skin Lubricant and Chamois Cream. Post-ride is about clean up and recovery. This includes their Swim & Sport Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, Body Lotion, and Race Relief Cold Therapy Muscle Gel.
Pre-ride
Zealios’ Sun Barrier SPF45 Zinc sunscreen isn’t like traditional zinc sunscreens. It uses 8% micronized Zinc Oxide, which means the zinc oxide particles are microscopic. This helps keep it feeling like a light lotion and it dries clear so you don’t look like a 90’s lifeguard’s nose. Just because the particles are tiny doesn’t mean that it won’t keep you protected. Sun Barrier blocks 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays and is rated at SPF45. It also has the FDA’s highest rating for water resistance at 80 minutes. We’ll go deeper in the review, but Sun Barrier will go the distance and keep you protected on your sweatiest rides.
The Betwixt Athletic Skin Lubricant and Chamois Cream helps keep everything moving smoothly when running and protects those sensitive areas when riding. It is made from all-natural, plant-based ingredients. It has a unique creamy texture that will keep your skin protected from chafing during extended workouts.
Post-ride
Now that you are done with your ride, and had your recovery drink of choice, it’s time to get cleaned up. From the shower to skincare, and a cold relief gel, Zealios has you covered from head to toe.
In the shower, you have three items, body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. They are all part of the Swim & Sport line are formulated to clean the chlorine, heavy minerals, and salt that swimmers and athletes can struggle with, leaving your skin and hair healthy and clean. All three have a light citrus scent and are vegan. The hair products are safe for processed and color-treated hair.
The moisturizing body lotion helps to repair and rehydrate your skin after those tough workouts. Whether your skin is dried out from salt or chlorine, or just trying to recover from a little too much sun, Zealios uses aloe vera, sunflower oil, and hyaluronic acid. What you get is a non-greasy lotion that absorbs quickly.
The final post-ride item is the Race Relief Cold Therapy Muscle Gel. This non-greasy, quick-absorbing gel, packs a punch with menthol and herbal extracts to help soothe sore, achy muscles and joints without drugs. Â The herbal component also helps reduce inflammation. It’s not just for recovery though. If you have a stiff back or something sore before your workout, the Race Relief gel can help before you even start.
I’ll get more into the details of the products in the full review, but my initial reaction is positive on everything. The sunblock has lasted through a four-hour road ride with little shade and lots of heat, without burning eyes or a sunburn. The Betwixt kept everything smooth and comfortable in the sensitive areas. As for the Swim & Sport items, my wife and I both have been using them and she is looking to transition over to Zealios once our current products run out, which says a lot because she is very picky. The Race Relief is the only item I haven’t had a chance to use as much, but it did help to take the edge off my sore back after a tough workout.
Look for both reviews in the coming weeks.
Heckling Editor, Image Taker, Crash Test Dummy, and Beard Master at Bikeworldnews.com
~Veggie Powered Athlete~
Location – Lancaster, PA
Current Testing Rigs – 2024 Van Dessel Arch65, 2019 Van Dessel Full Tilt Boogie, 2018 Van Dessel Motivus Maximus LTD, 2016 Van Dessel Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, 2015 Bianchi Sempre Pro, 1978 Trek TX900
Dream Bike – I’ll tell you when they make it
Discipline – Cyclocross, gravel, road and duathlons (ride/run)
Favorite Rides – Quiet country roads of Amish Country, some of the best roads around.
Food of Choice – Sweet potato roll
Beer of Choice – Unibroue Grand Reserve 17, aged four years
Bourbon of Choice – Widow Jane 10 Year