Hand Care for Climbers: Keeping Your Skin Strong, Healthy & Ready to Grip

Climbing pushes your hands to their limits - scraping against rock, gripping sharp holds, and enduring hours of tension. While calluses are your allies, damaged or neglected skin can quickly become your biggest obstacle. Proper hand care is essential not only for performance but also for preventing injuries that can sideline you for days or weeks. Here’s how to keep your hands in peak condition.

  1. Clean your hands after every climb

    Chalk, sweat and dust can build up in skin creases and dry out your hands.

    After a session, gently wash your hands with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.

    Avoid hot water and harsh cleansers, which strip natural oils and worsen dryness.

  2. Keep calluses under control

    Calluses help protect your skin - but when they get too thick or uneven, they’re more likely to tear.

    Use a pumice stone or fine grit file (like a callus remover or even sandpaper) to maintain a smooth,

    even layer of tough skin. Do this on dry skin for better control.

    Tip: Don’t overdo it! You want to thin calluses, not remove them entirely.

  3. Trim flappers and tears carefully

    If you get a flapper (a torn piece of skin), trim the excess skin with sterilized scissors or nail clippers.

    Clean the area thoroughly and let it breathe, applying a natural antiseptic if needed. Avoid climbing

    until the skin starts to close and toughen again.

  4. Rest when needed

    If your hands are raw, cracked, or bleeding, don’t push through it. Take a rest day or focus on technique drills

    that don’t strain your skin. Recovery is just as important as training the in the long run.

  5. Restore & protect with Climber’s Aid balm

    Finish your hand care routine by applying Climber’s Aid balm after climbing before bed to nourish and repair your skin.

    The blend of natural butters, oils and essential oils works to

    • Soothe dry, cracked areas

    • Accelerate the healing of cuts and abrasions

    • Strengthen the skin barrier for future climbing sessions

    • Reduce inflammation and prevent infection

    Massage a small amount into dry spots - especially fingertips, knuckles and calluses.

    Regular use of the balm goes a long way, but avoid applying the balm right before climbing.