8 Cold Weather Tips from a Cali Girl Born on a Tropical Island

8 Cold Weather Tips from a Cali Girl Born on a Tropical Island

You may laugh at a Californian (born in Puerto Rico) blogging about tips for the cold weather (but I did grow in NYC).

Yes, my area of the Southland is not visited by those flaky white things that happen during winter in other places unlucky to be no where near our fair state.

But we still get some chilly weather. And we do have mountain and ski areas that we visit. Also we travel to visit our ice-bound families.

There, now that I have listed my qualifications, here are some recommendations:

• Don't take extra hot showers. Hot showers can further dehydrate your skin.
• Take soap free showers. Soap free means to stay away from products that contain detergents because they can remove protective, essential oils.
• For the driest of dry skin, use plain old Vaseline, as a a sealer and a protectant. If the skin is already cracked, it does not sting.
• Certain beverages are dehydrating, such as those containing alcohol or caffeine, so consume them in moderation.
• Humidify the air in your home, especially in your bedroom so that healing and repair can take place while you sleep.
• Don't forget sunblock. It's just as important during winter as it is in summer, experts say, especially during winter sports like skiing at high altitude.
• Don't ignore hair and nails. They're made of the same basic compounds as the skin and they crack and split in similar fashion. B vitamin supplements can improve skin, hair and nails, especially during winter. For hair use a conditioner more frequently during winter.
• Keep lifesaving supplies in your car. A plastic bin with a lid makes a good container. Some items to have:
• Gloves, socks, hats and blankets.
• Bottled drinking water and a few snacks, like nuts.
• First-aid kit.
• A flashlight with fresh batteries, and flares.
• Cellphone charger.
• If applicable, baby food and diapers.

Stay safe out there in the white stuff.

And if it gets too cold where you are, and you would to move to and share some California Sunshine in Ventura County, email me and we will talk in the sun!