WINTER SKIN PROTECTION

WHEN ALBERTA CLIPPERS MOVE DOWN ACROSS THE COUNTRY from the north, lake effect machines build snow drifts, or low pressures systems generate harsh winds, what can be done to protect skin when running? WedMD offers 10 ways to care for skin in the winter, (see link below) but not specifically skin exposed while outdoors. Suggestion #2 does address the care of FACIAL skin: “MOISTURIZE More “. It says, “find an "ointment" moisturizer that's oil-based, rather than water-based, as the oil will create a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture than a cream or lotion.”  A good hint, it reports, is that “many lotions labeled as "night creams" are oil-based.” Oils used on facial skin should be those that are labeled as “non-clogging, like avocado oil, mineral oil, primrose oil, or almond oil.” It warns against using shea oil or butter because it may clog facial pores; also vegetable shortening (who uses that?).  Lotions that contain "humectants," substances that attract moisture to your skin, are a good idea too. These include glycerine, sorbitol and alpha-hydroxy acids.
 
One of the most common and well-known mineral oil-based ointments is PETROLATUM (petroleum jelly). In the past I ran with Vaseline Brand ointment on my face on severely cold windy days. It kept the vapor rising from my breath from irritating my face. The fabric of the Buff that is pulled up over my neck, chin, and sometimes nose and mouth too, freezes and thaws and rubs against my skin. However there are concerns that contaminants in petroleum-based products (see EWG link below) can be harmful, so I now use it only on days when the wind chill is below zero. I’m still looking for a good replacement. Barrier-type sunscreens protect against UV light damage, and possibly the zinc oxide and titanium oxide in these products might also serve to keep irritation from occurring. Zinc oxide is an ingredient of products used for diaper rash and wound care, but these products also tend to contain petrolatum and lanolin (it’s allergenic).

WHAT DO YOU USE?
http://www.webmd.com/beauty/skin/ten-winter-skin-care-tips
http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/706976/WHITE_PETROLATUM/

RUN HAPPY!