With temperatures plummeting throughout most of the U.S., I continue to be bombarded with questions surrounding what kind of impact this harsh weather has on the skin.

Surprisingly, many ask if colder temperatures have medicinal or anti-aging benefits – but to date, there are no known anti-aging benefits resulting from very cold temperatures. In fact, low temperatures can make skin dry, raw and irritated. Exposing your skin to cold temperatures (such as winter weather and wind) can promote and contribute to aging.

So, how should you protect your skin during the winter months?

I‘ve always recommended patients use a thicker, richer moisturizer to create a barrier from the elements. I also suggest that patients use moisturizers indoors during the winter months because heated rooms can cause skin to become dry and dehydrated. Using a humidifier is also a good idea.

With that said, it’s important to avoid both extremely hot and extremely cold temperatures due to the negative impact on skin.

But the cold can also be very healing in specific settings. If you are fighting puffiness under or around your eyes, applying a cool compress has soothing effects and can reduce inflammation. Cool compresses may also reduce swelling associated with redness in the eye area.

I also recommend the application of cold compresses for the immediate treatment of a thermal or chemical burn. I recommend putting the affected area in cold water (but not ice water) for up to 30 minutes immediately after the burn. This type of cold treatment has been shown to reduce the total area of the burn as well as its depth.

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

Did you know that your mouth contains one of your body’s best defense systems against the cold and flu? Protecting and enhancing your oral health can go a long way towards helping to boost your immunities and prevent the spread of infection. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) colds are one of the most common causes of absenteeism with up to 22 million work and school days lost each year. Don’t let a cold or flu interrupt your life this year… fortify your front line and follow these healthy smile tips today!

1)     Gargle with warm crystal salt water.

In our dental offices, we offer a Himalayan crystal salt treatment that helps to reduce inflammation and restore the mouth’s important pH balance on a cellular level. Himalayan crystal salt is very pure, has 84 important trace minerals, and does not burden the body the way chemically processed table salt does. It is more ‘bioenergetic’ and pure than sea salt much of which is also industrially “cleaned.” At home, begin with a thorough daily brushing of your teeth, tongue and then gargle with a homemade crystal saltwater solution. If you can find Himalayan crystal salt in a health food store or online, that’s always preferable. Warm crystal salt water helps heal inflammation in the mouth, promotes sinus health and is soothing for sore throats as well.

2)     Brush three times a day.

Brushing your teeth and tongue three times a day, preferably with a mild non-detergent, chemical-free toothpaste and alcohol-free mouthrinse will help keep your mouth clean and healthy. An unhealthy oral environment, with decay and gum disease, has also been shown to compromise the proper function of your immune system and can make you more susceptible to respiratory infection. In many instances, this can reduce your protection against the common cold or flu.

3)     Change and sanitize your toothbrush

Your toothbrush is a veritable incubator of viruses and bacteria – some removed from your mouth during brushing, and some from the environment (especially your cosmetic or toiletries case). It is a good idea to change your toothbrush immediately after any illness. Regular sanitizing and also changing your toothbrush monthly will also help keep harmful germs at bay year-round.

4)     Eat an antioxidant rich diet.

Antioxidant rich foods such as lightly cooked or raw greens, plant-based foods and hormone-free meats will not only help keep you lean, but may also aid your body’s natural defense systems. When you do feel ill, you my want to try a mega-green fresh power juice or an antioxidant infused water.

5) Exercise and manage stress

Exercise helps to boost the immune system, helps improves circulation and helps reduce stress. Runners, for instance, may often have a very low incidence of gum disease. Healthy habits are especially important during the winter months. Try to get as much sleep and exercise as our full lives allow. Take time for yourself. Stress will help deteriorate your defenses and may quickly lead to illness.

6) Avoid smoking.

Smoking may irritate oral and nasal passageways, strangle blood circulation and may make you more susceptible to infection. Try to limit or avoid all types of smoking, including second hand smoke.

Dr. Gerald P. Curatola is a renowned aesthetic dentist and pioneer in the emerging field of rejuvenation dentistry, which improves patients’ overall health and appearance by integrating total wellness with cutting edge oral care and restorative procedures. In addition to his private practice, research, and work as a Clinical Associate Professor at NYU College of Dentistry, he is an internationally sought after speaker, author and expert who has been featured widely in print and broadcast media. For more information, go to DrGerry.net

Asthma may affect as many as one out of ten children in the US.  During the fall months and in to winter we see a tremendous increase in the number of children with active symptomatic asthma.  A respiratory viral infection is a rather frequent co-conspirator responsible for a higher number of children suffering with worsening asthma.  Other important factors include a change in weather, cooler, drier air as well as increased exposure to indoor allergens. Another issue is children who are given less medication during the later summer and early fall now more than ever need a provider directed asthma regimen to prepare for cold and flu season as well as winter. 

According to a study presented at a meeting held by the American College of Chest Physicians it was observed that October and November are the peak months for children’s asthma, including ER visits, hospitalizations as well as needed asthma medication. Make it an ideal time to review asthma “action plan” (including the proper use of a peak flow meter) with your physician or health care provider at:

http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/lung/asthma/asthma_actplan.htm

What are some symptoms that may indicate that your child’s asthma may not be well controlled?

• Recurrent and persistent cough
• Cough as a result of exposure to pets, exercise and even laughing
• Wheezing
• Trouble breathing or catching your breath
• Tightness of the chest and “congestion”
• Worsening asthma after cold virus and sinus infections
• Nighttime cough
• Increased use of quick reliever “rescue” inhalers

Why are more children suffering from asthma?

Read on in an upcoming blog in order to assist you in reducing asthma symptoms in your child.  Don’t forget the flu shot!   

Dr. Clifford W. Bassett is an assistant clinical professor of medicine at the Long Island College Hospital and on the faculty of NYU School of Medicine.  He is the current vice chair for public education committee of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.  No information in this blog is intended as medical advice to any reader or intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition.