With the holidays around the corner you want to be looking and feeling your best. It’s also a crucial time to protect your skin, the largest organ of the body. As you prepare for the cold, dry weather, take a look at the “dos” and “don’ts” of winter skin care: Dos: Moisturize Your Skin:

By creating a protective layer for your skin, moisturizer allows the skin to hold more moisture. Low humidity and indoor heating can cause the skin to dry. Applying a moisturizer can prevent skin from breaking or cracking.

Apply Sunscreen:

Although the sun doesn’t seem as harsh in the winter months, it can damage unprotected skin. Glare off the snow can increase the sun’s effects. Reapply sunscreen if you’ll be outside for an extended period of time. Use a Humidifier:

Use a humidifier in your home, especially if you use a woodstove. Adding moisture to the air helps prevent the skin from drying further. The best place to have a humidifier is in the bedroom because our bodies lose a lot of moisture while we sleep. Wear Gloves:

The skin on your hands is thinner than most other body parts, and harder to keep moisturized. When going outside, wear gloves to protect your hands from harsh wind and winter’s cold. Don’ts: Avoid Wet Clothing:

Staying in cold, wet clothing can cause cracking, itching, or irritation of the skin. If you will be outside for a long period of time, bring an extra pair of clothes to change into as needed. Avoid Hot Showers:

Taking a steaming hot shower after a long day in the cold may feel nice at the time, but it can rob your skin of natural oils and make it drier. Try to shorten the time that you spend under the hot water or reduce the temperature. Also, avoid harsh soaps that can strip your skin of its natural oils. Don’t Lick Your Lips:

Licking your lips robs them of any internal moisture when your saliva evaporates. Wear chapstick or lip balm when your lips are feeling dry.

For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.com and www.webmd.com.

Laura St. John, AmeriCorps member, assisted in article development.