Indianapolis, January 10, 2011 -- We have all heard it.  Make sure to wear sunscreen, cover your head and put on a pair of sunglasses when you go out in the sun.  But these skin protection tips often seem only to be encouraged and discussed during the warmer months of the year.   
Dermatologists emphasize that even in the colder winter months, protection from the sun is important in reducing the chances of skin damage and cancer.  While in winter the sky is typically dull and the sun rays seem less intense, the sun rays in the winter can also cause sunburn and skin irritations.  In addition, winter can be particularly hard on specific dermatological problems such as psoriasis, eczema or rosacea, as the winter air is typically much dryer and harsher than during the warmer months. 
Dr. Lawrence Mark, dermatology service chief at Wishard Health Services and assistant professor of dermatology at the IU School of Medicine, stressed that outdoor activities during any time of the year can be dangerous to your skin if you are not prepared with the proper UV protection and clothing. 
"The important thing is to remember to always protect your skin regardless of the time of the year.  In the colder months you have to worry about several things including sun damage, wind burn, dry skin and also the potential of frost bite," Mark explained.  "The best advice is to cover up and remember that prevention is the best medicine." 
In the winter there is less moisture in the air and what natural oils people do have in their skin can be blown away by the wind.  Once inside, central heating is also very drying to the skin.  The fortunate part of this is these environmental factors can be reduced by taking some simple precautions.   
Use of lip balm containing a sunscreen in the winter can be very helpful.  Lifestyle measures such as using moisturizers and avoiding long, hot showers and baths often can also help.  For very dry and scaly skin, doctors recommend using an over-the-counter (non-prescription) cream that contains lactic acid or lactic acid and urea.  For tougher cases a prescription cream may be required. 
Dr. Mark suggests if someone has a concern about skin health, he or she should make an appointment to see a primary care physician or dermatologist.  For more information about finding a primary care physician or dermatologist, please call Health Connection at Wishard at (317) 655-2255.