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How to Keep Your Face Protected during the Cold Winter Months

Tired of cold cheeks and wind-burned skin? The winter can wreak havoc on your face. Sub-zero temperatures and gusty winds are harsh. There are a few simple steps you can take to keep your face protected during the cold winter months.

The Basic Scarf

For everyday protection, you just can’t go wrong with a basic winter scarf. They’re fashionable and come in a variety of colors and materials. That means you can have a scarf for each coat or sweater you like to wear. And scarves provide multiple layers of protection. Wrapped around your face and neck they help keep your cheeks, nose and mouth covered. They can also help keep your neck and chest warmed.

Remember that scarves can be dangerous on small children. They present a choking hazard because they can become wrapped around playground equipment. Scarves are a better choice for older children and adults.

Balaclava

A Balaclava is a hood that is pulled down over your head. It covers your head and your face with cutouts for your eyes, nose and mouth. Balaclavas are also called “masks.” They’re extremely useful for outdoor activities because they protect your entire face including your forehead. Many face masks are made from a thick and windproof material, which is great if you’re moving at a fast rate of speed. For example, masks are great if you’re skiing or on a snow mobile.

Some face masks don’t have nose and mouth holes. They have eye holes and that’s it. The benefit of this is that your lips and nose aren’t exposed. However, it can also cause complications if you need to sneeze or get a bite to eat.

Bandanas

Many younger adults and teenagers prefer to simply tie a bandana around their face to protect it from the elements. In fact, you’ll see professional snow boarders and skiers wearing basic bandanas. One of the reasons for this is the bandana protects the face, but it doesn’t collect moisture like a mask might. Moisture can cause goggles to fog up which is dangerous if you’re snowboarding or skiing.

Half Masks

You can also find half masks. They’re made of the same durable neoprene or synthetic material that many full masks are made from. Instead of covering the entire head and face, they simply cover the nose, cheeks, chin and mouth. This is often a better option than a bandana because it provides better protection, and it eliminates the moisture problem.

Full Helmet

Depending on what you’re doing in winter weather, you may want to consider a full helmet. This is particularly useful when you’re snowmobiling. The helmet protects your head and a full face protection keeps the elements from affecting your vision and your skin. If you’re active in any extreme sports, this may be the best option.

Make your face protection decision based on the activity you’re going to be participating in. If you’re heading out for dinner with friends, then a scarf should be sufficient. If you’re shredding the half pipe at your local ski resort, consider a balaclava or a half mask. And if you’re doing an extreme sport, you might consider a full helmet to take care of protecting your head and your face with one step.