Tips you don't want to miss maintain a healthy glow during the winter season

Sun protection - Just because it's cold out doesn't mean you can't get sun damage. The sun is still out, and when there’s snow it contributes to our risk for sun damage in the winter because we're getting a double dose of UV rays with the reflection of the snow. This is especially true for those living at high altitudes. Sunscreen, hats, larger sunglasses that cover the skin around the eye are essential. Regions with cold climates and high altitudes have have high rates of melanoma because of the sun reflection of snow and intense sun exposure during summer months.

Remember - UVA rays are still in full force during the winter and these are the rays that are believed to be associated with skin cancers and premature aging. SPF 30 or higher is recommended with physical blockers (i.e. titanium dioxide, zinc oxide)

The surprising cause of chapped lips - The cause behind your chapped lips may be more than just dryness and a sign of a nutrient imbalance (excess or deficiency). Zinc, iron, vitamin A, B-vitamins, fatty acids can all play a role in chapped lips.

Note: It's not advisable to take these nutrients individually without the guidance of a nutrition professional.

Protect the eyes - the skin around the eyes doesn't have oil glands which makes this area particularly susceptible to dryness and premature aging. Wearing sunglasses, keeping the area moisturized, using gentle eye makeup remover all ways to help protect the delicate skin around the eye during the winter.

Avoid dry air - Dry air can make fine lines a wrinkles more prominent. Get a humidifier or find out if your home heating system has a built in humidifier.

Tweak your regimen - our skin tends to be more dry in the winter, so pumping up the moisture is key. During the winter months, you may need to add another layer of moisture to your regimen, but we want to do it in a way that's non-comedogenic (doesn't clog the pores). Look into serums and face oils suitable for your skin type to add an extra moisture punch!

**Disclaimer**

The information contained within this blog is for educational use only and is not a substitute for seeking the advice of a license medical professional. Always consult your health care provider before implementing health information found online or starting a new supplement regimen.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10414151

https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/dermatologists-share-home-remedies-for-dry-skin

http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/uva-and-uvb/shining-light-on-ultraviolet-radiation

http://www.thealternativedaily.com/chapped-lips-balm-dry-skin/