The Square Life

While rosy cheeks may accompany colder weather, red, chapped, and dry skin can be uncomfortable and unattractive. But you don’t have to give up your favorite winter sports to protect your skin. With the proper care, you can save face this winter and prevent over-dry and chapped skin.
   Several elements of winter weather create problems for skin, says Dr. Tom Hyatt of University Health Care in Orem. Dry air robs skin of its moisture, leaving behind dry skin, chapped lips, or in some cases, eczema (extremely dry skin). The temperature drop causes blood vessels to narrow, which leaves skin less sensitive to cold and more susceptible to damage. Ultraviolet rays are actually intensified with snow on the ground—they are reflected from the snow, too—something a lot of people forget. And at high altitudes, it’s even easier to burn skin, or even the eyes.
   All of these skin problems are easy to avoid. Here are some skin care tips that will help you give Old Man Winter the cold shoulder:
   Wear sunscreen. Even though it’s cold outside and you’re mostly covered up, UV rays will still find exposed skin and eyes. Try waterproof sunscreens with an SPF of at least 15.
   Wear UV ray-blocking sunglasses or ski goggles.
   Cover up. The sun can’t burn and the wind can’t dry out skin that is hidden.
   Use mild soaps. Several brands are harsh on skin. Try Dove or Neutrogena; both are recommended by dermatologists.
   Moisturize. The best time to moisturize is right after bathing. Look for moisturizers with glycerin, like Curel, which will actually replenish skin’s moisture. Other moisturizers only lock in whatever moisture you already have.
   Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated will keep your skin moisturized.
   Avoid long, hot showers or baths. Bathing for too long in water that is too warm can dry skin. If you go for a soak in the hot tub, be sure to moisturize afterward.
   For sunburn, try an emollient like aloe vera. For red, chapped skin, try a 1 percent hydrocortisone cream, available over-the-counter.