As the days get colder and colder, outdoor adventures become all the more appealing. It’s a great time to set out for days of snowy adventures and winter sports. Whether you like skiing the black diamond slopes, sledding with the kids, snowshoeing with friends, or just enjoy an après-ski experience in the great outdoors, there’s so much to do. While you may get wrapped up in the excitement, don’t forget to take these important steps to keep your ski hydrated and safe all winter long.
Cover Up
This may seem silly, but beyond the obvious reason to stay cozy, there are two more pressing reasons to layer up in the cold. For one thing, just because you can’t see very much of the sun does not mean it’s not there. Cover up to avoid harmful UV rays, and be sure to layer with wicking fabric. You don’t need sweaty fabric rubbing against your skin all day. You’ll want to avoid any irritation from scratchy fabrics, especially if you suffer from eczema or psoriasis. Also, check to make sure you are covered head to toe. No one needs frostbite after a day of fun.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to apply sunscreen. Windburn is literally sunburn. A board-spectrum SPF 30 should do the trick. Just reapply every couple of hours, especially if you are sweating.
Take Care of Your Lips
When the cold air hits your lips for hours at a time, you’re going to suffer the consequences. Chapped, cracked lips hurt. So, before you strap into those skis, layer on the lip protection and reapply regularly. Make sure it has hydrating ingredients like natural coconut or jojoba oils, vitamin E, beeswax, and shea butter. For an added bonus, try to get a lip balm with an SPF in it. Lips can get sunburned too.
Stay Hydrated
Just because it’s not hot out and you’re not sweating, does not mean you can slow down on your water intake. A hydrated body helps your skin stay hydrated too.
While we’re on the topic, soaking in a hot bath may feel like it would keep skin moisturized, but it doesn’t. A long, hot soak will strip natural oils from the skin, drying you out. Take that hot shower, but then apply a good moisturizer all over. Products with hyaluronic acid will draw moisture right back into your skin.
If you have questions about staying skin smart over the winter, schedule an appointment with The Derm Group by calling 973.571.2121.