Brrr! Canadian winters can be chilly business when you have alopecia! The frosty weather makes you want to curl up with a fuzzy blanket, a mug of hot cocoa, and a good movie. But, we can’t do that all winter.

Hair plays an important role in keeping our bodies warm. But even without it, there are many ways that we can keep cozy and have healthy skin during the colder months.

So, here we leave you with 7 tips for braving the snow:

1. Moisturize. A lot. The cold weather can leave your skin dry and irritated without proper care. Make sure to moisturize after showers, baths, and after washing your hands if possible. If you don’t like the feel of lotion on your palms while going about your day, apply some to the back of your hands only- it’s better than none at all! At night, you can also seal in that moisturizing power by sleeping with mittens or socks on your hands. Take a look at this list of dermatologist recognized skin care products from the Canadian Dermatology Association to find a lotion for your skin type.

2. Pick up lubricant eye drops at your local drug store. In the winter your eyes also become more dry and can be further irritated by hours of online learning or work on a computer. Taking breaks and using eye drops throughout the day will help you stay focused, fresh, and feeling your best! When outside, wearing glasses helps to keep the wind and other elements from your eyes.

3. Customize your tissue pack. Fewer nose hairs, eyelashes, and eyebrows means less protection from debris, more runny noses, and a close friendship with your tissue box. Write and tape a positive reminder to your pocket-sized tissue pack so every time you reach for one, you get a motivation boost. Here is a list of 130 short inspiring messages for some ideas.

4. Protect your skin from the sun. In the winter months it is just as important to wear sunscreen on your face and head, even if you are outside a short time. 30 SPF or higher is recommended. Follow the same guidelines in the winter as you do the summer to stay most protected. See our article on sun safety and alopecia areata for more information.

5. Sneak in some exercise. If you’re feeling cold, easily the best way to warm up is to get your heart rate up! Find an activity or workout that makes you excited, even if you can only spend 20 minutes with it. Build a snowman, dance in your basement, lift some weights, practice yoga or anything else that gets your blood pumping and remember to always re-hydrate with lots of water.

6. Speak to your doctor about Vitamin D. Many Canadians do not get enough vitamin D in the winter due to decreased sun exposure. This vitamin provides benefits to our bones, immune system, and helps keep away the winter blues. There is also research to suggest that vitamin D deficiency is more common in people with alopecia areata. If you are unsure, ask your doctor to test for your vitamin D levels.

7. Talk to a friend. If your alopecia feels like it changes with the seasons, you’re not alone. You may struggle with hair loss more in the winter than the summer, or maybe it’s the opposite. Take time to connect with someone who offers you support and encouragement. Join one of our support groups, talk with an alopecia mentor, or send us an email to say hello.