Extreme cold: how to avoid frostbite and chilblains?

When the outside temperature drops to around zero, the skin suffers and needs intense hydration. Areas exposed to the cold, such as the face and hands, can fall victim to chapping or frostbite, resulting in redness, swelling, sores, and even burns. Mucous membranes like the lips are often severely affected, especially in case of a cold.

The right reflex is to apply a nourishing cream to the face, a daily treatment for the hands, and a good thick layer of lip balm.

The face and lips: areas under high protection

In winter, especially when skiing, between the cold and UV rays, the skin is put to the test. Frostbite can appear as redness and even burns in more severe cases. A sunscreen with SPF 50+ is essential. In the evening, after removing makeup, apply a repairing cream to the face as a night treatment.

Lips are very fragile. When moist, they can feel tight and form lines. The skin seems too tight and cracks, causing a wound. A lip balm is a must-have within reach. It should be applied several times a day, under lipstick, after meals, before a kiss, or at night before bed. Used alone, lip balm restores shine and comfort. Ingredients often include aloe vera for hydration and beeswax for smoothness.

Protecting extremities every day

Hands are heavily used every day, even if you don't have a manual job. The skin feels stripped and extremely dry. The hydrolipidic film often doesn't have time to reform naturally. Cream acts as a protective glove and maximizes hydration. What tips should you follow to keep your hands soft, even in winter?

- Avoid contact with water. When doing dishes or cleaning, detergents should be handled with gloves. They have an abrasive effect on the skin, causing extreme dryness. At the slightest wound, healing will be long and difficult, which encourages the formation of cracks.
- Wear gloves outdoors when it's cold. This tip is easy to apply. Choose lined or leather gloves, as they don't let air through, unlike wool gloves.
- Apply cocooning treatments for the hands. Avoid hand scrubs if you have cracks and make yourself a homemade mask. Leave on for 10 minutes a mixture of 2 tablespoons of oil, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a mashed banana.
- Choose rich creams with high nutritional value, such as shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, or olive oil.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes: hands around a hot cup of tea or against a hot radiator.
- Consult a doctor if your hands are always cold and have a blue or purple color. Poor blood circulation may be the cause.

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