Different weather effects different people in different ways. Right now, in California, we are heading into the chilly months (but it’s still in the 80s in the valley!). Weather changes can be extremely harsh on your skin, and this time of year is typically dry and cold. Cold weather can cause some extreme skin dryness and chapped lips and cheeks. Here are winter skin tips to save you from the season!

In the winter, many people experience dry hands with cracked, sore cuticles. One way to keep your hands well moisturized is to soak them in a light oil and wear gloves over the top. A perfect oil for this type of treatment is almond oil or apricot kernel oil as these oils soak into the skin quickly. They are used in a lot of massage oil blends and can be found at many health food stores.

Many sources suggest applying the oils generously to the hands, paying particular attention to the nails and cuticles. Then, wear gloves while you sleep so that they can your hands can absorb the oil overnight without the mess on bed linens. The suggested gloves have been the yellow latex kind you use when cleaning and washing dishes, or even the lesser expensive kind they sell in the paint section of the hardware store.

Another winter skin woe is chapped lips! Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also be painful. Plus, how are you supposed to wear a bold lip color over an irritated pout? A wonderful homemade lip balm can be made by melting coconut oil (three parts) and beeswax (one part) together. After melting them together, pour into a small container and allow to harden. It can used directly on the lips as is, or add an oil-like peppermint or thyme while liquid for extra therapeutic properties of the balm.

Exfoliants can be used during the winter months, but they should not be over done. Sluffing off the dry skin can keep the complexion bright. Undertaking this process more than about once a week, or even once every other week (for the sensitive skin), can leave the skin feeling and looking raw. Try making your own gentle exfoliators: take sugar or oatmeal and combine with light oils, such as the almond or olive oil. This way, your skin can be exfoliated and bathed in moisture at the same time. The exfoliant should be mixed with the oil to form a light paste. After rinsing well with warm water, pat dry.

You tell us: What are your tips in maintaining your skin during cold weather?

Summer is just a few short weeks away, which means we can look forward to more fun in the sun, cute ruffle bathing suits, chlorine, and nights on the beach! With our minds focused on what this Summer holds for us, it’s easy to forget our beauty preparations. One thing that gets sun exposure every day and that don’t apply SPF on is our hair. Our hair can easily get major sun damage, but there are ways to minimize that damage and repair it post-damage. Here’s a guide on how to take care of your Summer hair at home DIY-style, without the cost!:

1) DAIRY for dull, brittle hair: Take 2 egg yolks and mix together in a bowl. Apply the yolk on your clean, damp hair. Once your hair is coated, put on a shower cap and wait for 20 minutes. Then, rinse your hair with cool water. Do this once a month.

2) HONEY for dry, dehydrated hair: Onto clean, damp hair massage a palm-full of honey on scalp and through strands. Put on a shower cap and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Honey also calms itchy scalp!

3) CORNMEAL or BABY POWDER for oily, greasy hair: Pour cornmeal or cornstarch into an empty salt or pepper shaker. Sprinkle onto dry roots and brush it out using a paddle brush or comb. For blondes, try using baby powder! For those willing to spend a little extra, try a dry shampoo. You can find one at your local drugstore or at salons.

If you’re a hair product junkie and like to splurge on high-end products, check out the TotalBeauty.com‘s top list of high-end hair treatments.

Do you have DIY treatments for hair? Leave them in the comments below!