Archive for January 14th, 2008

Cold Weather Skin Care, 1

Monday, January 14th, 2008

Passport to Texas from Texas Parks and Wildlife

Cold, dry winter air makes extended time outdoors feel more invigorating. Unfortunately, it can also leave skin feeling dry and irritated if its not protected properly.

I think when you’re talking about protecting the skin, I think you want to protect it from two things: mainly over drying and too much sun exposure.

Dr. Jaculeen Dano is a board certified dermatologist with a practice in Austin.

In the winter months, in general, what you do day-to-day is to make sure when you cleanse the skin—face, body, hands—just make sure to use lukewarm water; try to use a gentle cleanser, especially a moisturizing body wash is nice. And then get moisturizer on after your shower.

Although sun damage is less likely in winter than in summer, don’t put away the sunscreen just yet.

Look at the UV index for the day. If the UV index is three or higher, you’re going to need at least an SPF of fifteen. If the UV index is two or lower, you don’t need to really be as cautious about applying sun protection. When you apply the sunscreen, make sure that you apply it liberally; get it on before you get outdoors. If you’re going to be out for more than two hours—you need to reapply it.

More winter skin care tips tomorrow.

That’s our show for today…for Texas Parks and Wildlife…I’m Cecilia Nasti.