Aside from the possibility of getting caught in the middle of an avalanche and getting a frostbite during your ski vacation, here’s another threat that you should avoid: windburn. So what exactly is a windburn?
Windburn is the redness of the skin caused by long exposure to strong and cold winds for extended period of time. The cold air allows the wind to easily break down the fat molecules (oil) that maintain the normal moisture in your skin. As a result, the skin turns dry and irritated. Skin also becomes more sensitive to products. It commonly occurs on the face but it can happen to any exposed part of your body.
Signs and Symptoms
Windburn is characterized by the irritation of the skin manifested in the redness of the face and other parts of the body such as neck and hands. It can look and feel like sunburn. Sometimes, the skin can seem swollen and feel very itchy and/or sore. It usually last for a few days because it causes much less skin damage.
However, if the irritation lasts longer, consult your doctor to avoid another skin condition such as rosacea. Rosacea is a skin disease that can mimic windburn and characterized by various forms of facial redness due to the enlargement and widening of blood vessels beneath the surface of the skin.
Who might be the victims of sunburn?
Those who are involved in winter sports such as skiers, snowboarders, and ice skaters are most likely to experience windburn. Being exposed to cold, dry, brisk wind at high altitudes increases the possibility of severe windburn.
People who live in warm climates don’t usually experience windburn, however sudden exposure to cold dry winds on vacations or during a sudden weather change may increase the odds.
What are the ways to prevent it?
First, keep your skin covered. Wear a scarf or neck warmers for your neck and chin, mittens to protect your hands, a hat or headband for your ears and a face mask for your nose cheeks, and forehead.
Second, if you plan to go out for a long time, wear some moisturizing sunblock to protect you from both sun and windburn. Don’t forget to moisten your lips too, with an SPF lip moisturizer. Apply sunscreen to your skin and lips every two hours.
Third, check weather reports and know the wind-chill factor before going out. If the weather is extremely cold, then don’t stay outside far too long.
Fourth, if it happens, apply lotion about four times a day. Make sure those lotions are without fragrance or acidic ingredients to avoid further irritation. If your skin begins to peel, resist the urge to pick at your skin and continue to moisturize. In cleaning the affected area, choose a mild cleanser to keep the natural moisture in your skin. If your condition is not getting any better, best to consult your doctor.
Are you ready for your ski vacation? With these helpful tips, your vacation will surely be windburn-free.