Save your skin: 5 essential cold weather tips
The temperature is heading for the single digits and that means taking extra precautions in a walking town like New York.
“It takes only minutes for exposed skin to become frostbitten if the temperature falls below 20°F and the wind is blowing at 20 milers per hour or more,” says Dr. Taizoon Baxamusa of the American Academy of Orthopeadic Surgeons (AAOS). That’s just what’s expected in New York over the next couple of days. Here are five essential things to do to stay safe and warm and prevent frostbite, which can cause permanent damage to the skin and circulation:
Don’t even think about coffee or alcohol. It may feel like a good idea but caffeine and alcohol both cause the body to lose heater faster, says Dr. Baxamusa. Warm drinks are good, but go for decaf or hot soup.
Cover your head and ears. “Substantial heat loss occurs through the scalp, so head coverings are vital,” says Dr. Baxamusa. Wear a cap and earmuffs and pull the cap down over your ears. Double cover your hands and feet. If you’re going to be out for a half hour or more, wear double socks – wool over lightweight cotton — and mittens, which are warmer than gloves. The body tries to preserve heat by shutting down circulation to the hands and feet. Numbness in the extremities is a sign that this is happening.
Bundle up loosely. Mom may have told you to bundle up tight, but she was wrong. Light, loose and layered is the way to go. “It provides both ventilation and insulation,” says Dr. Baxamusa.
Consider numbness a warning sign. At the first sign of numbness in the toes, fingers, ears or anywhere, get inside. Frostbite is considered a medical emergency and you should see a doctor immediately.
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Tags: Skin Care