We’ve talked about common cold weather myths, and one of the most common misconceptions about this time of year is that you don’t need sunscreen. In fact, snow and ice can reflect up to eighty percent of harmful UV rays, so lather up with sunscreen even in the winter.
Many believe that you lose most of your body heat through your head, but contrary to popular belief heat loss occurs where skin is exposed. If you were to go outside without gloves on, you would lose a disproportionate amount of heat through your hands. You may think it’s natural to gain as much as ten pounds over the winter, but most people only gain one to two pounds over the six weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas, but then many people also think you shouldn’t exercise in the cold. A study in Medicine in Science and Sports and Exercise found that race times are actually faster in colder temperatures, so get outside!