Winter, with its myriad of parties and pressies, is the most festive time of the year. Winter months and cold weathr can be harsh on your skin. During the winter months, the combination of lower temperatures and reduced humidity extracts moisture from your skin. Your skin needs moisture to stay hydrated and healthy.

Cold, dry winter air is very damaging to skin because it literally removes all moisture. The low humidity common in many parts of the United States during winter can cause dry, irritated skin. When skin becomes dry and irritated, eczema can flare. Wear Sunglasses - the glare of sun off snow causes an increased UV threat to eyes so choose sunglasses that block Drink Plenty of Water - air travel and outdoor exercise can quickly dehydrate the body, so drinking water is essential to keeping the body's organs functioning optimally.

Drinking 6-8 glasses a day is recommended. Use Skin Moisturizers and Protectants - protect your skin by using a moisturizer to seal moisture in. Rejuvenate skin ? Many people use topical night creams and other cosmetic products containing retinoids. These can help reduce facial lines, wrinkles and age spots. Wear Breathable Fabrics - look for fabrics that "breathe" to help keep sweat and moisture away from skin.

Apply moisturiser to damp skin after showering. After patting -- not wiping off-- your body with a towel, slather on a rich cream. Long, hot showers can rob your skin of much-needed moisture.

To avoid this, shower as infrequently as possible -- every other day if you feel comfortable. Dry and cracking hands and feet are common in colder months. To treat hands, reduce the frequency of hand washing (which saps moisture from skin) and apply a Hand Cream. Skin really takes a beating from wind and cold and needs extra protection.

Avoid exfoliating. The dry air in many homes actually exfoliates skin. pply toners and astringents sparingly ? These are liquids used after cleaning, just before applying a moisturizer. Stimulate and exfoliate ? Rubbing the skin's surface daily with a scrub or washcloth stimulates the skin and removes dead cells, which can clog the pores. Keep a lip balm in your car, at work, in the kitchen and bedroom. If you apply it regularly, those lips will stay soft and moist.

Winter Skin Tips 1. Use a heavier, richer moisturiser. 2. Drink eight glasses of water a day; this will help your throat, as well as your skin.

] 3. Eat foods high in heart-healthy oils to lubricate you from the inside out. 4. Drink a glass of hot water with lemon.

5. Use Skin Moisturizers to protect your skin. 6. Wash your face with a mild cleanser and rinse with lukewarm water.

7. Drink plenty of water. 8.

Eat healthy and take your vitamins.

Juliet Cohen writes articles for skin care blog and hairstyles picture. She also writes articles for celebrity hairstyles.