The Winter Olympics are a stunning display of jaw-dropping strength and speed, dizzying skill, and dramatic comebacks — plus a parade of wildly specific outerwear engineered for the coldest conditions on Earth. But beneath the spectacle is a master class in how to function at a high level when the stakes (and temps) are brutal.
The athletes heading to the Milano Cortina Games aren’t just training harder; they’re living smarter. Recovery routines are as technical as their programs. Sleep is strategy. Warmth is non-negotiable. Grit leads to glory. Winter Olympians have plenty to teach us normies about surviving winter, so we went straight to the source.
In this package, we talk to athletes about how they actually get ready for the ice and slopes — how they hydrate and refuel, calm their nerves, and build routines that carry them through competition day. You’ll find beauty products and SPF recs that survive subzero wind, and music that gets them in the right head space.
Consider this your insider guide to winter at its most elite — whether you’re chasing a podium, a personal best, or just trying to get through February.
— Hannah Orenstein, deputy editor of lifestyle and wellness
Straight from the slopes and rinks of Milano Cortina, athletes let you in on their secrets.
“I use the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast, especially before bed. I lather that stuff on, and that always saves me when my skin hurts to touch because it's so dry. I always have to use it under my nose in the winter when I'm skating.”
—Isabeau Levito, figure skater
“My go-to moisturizer is from Paula's Choice. My makeup has to stay through all the sweat, so I also use e.l.f’s Power Grip Primer. I love using Colourpop eyeshadows to match my costume’s color. And to make my hair stay during spins, I use lots and lots of hairspray.”
— Amber Glenn, figure skater
“If it's really cold, putting Aquaphor on your face helps.”
—Laila Edwards, ice hockey player
“I have super sensitive skin, so moisturizing — especially [in] the cold weather climates — is such a delicate balancing act. I really enjoy using a tinted moisturizer because I don't really see the sun very much.”
—Hilary Knight, ice hockey player
“Before I apply under-eye concealer, I apply a liquid blush so that it's glowy and looks more blended out. I don't like when I can see the blotch of blush and then under-eye concealer.”
—Isabeau Levito, figure skater
