Herman30...very valuable information. Thanks for posting it.

It depends on how you are using it. For severe dry skin, the dermatologist told me the greasier the better. Vaseline Lip Therapy looks like they just packaged standard Vaseline in a different container.

One recommendation I´ve heard here is to apply vaseline or whatever lotion you want, the evening before going out. That way it is absorbed by the skin during the night keeping it moist without a layer on top of skin.

I suspect the safest way to keep exposed skin from frostbite is, don't leave it exposed. Cover it with a fleece facemask or mil-surp. headcover.

Jpicket ... Problem happens with minimum gear. You have one facewrap, two gloves. By accident, you lose one glove. There is no replacement. If you move your facewrap to your uncovered hand, you get frostbite on your face.

It does pay to have backup gear. But sometimes that doesnt exist.

Not trying to be contrary here ... Just pointing out that urgent situations do come up where people are missing essential kit.

Pete

Every winter, on the coldest Yukon day, I test my outfit on my 2km walk to work. Besides the obvious warm clothing mentioned above, my favorite item are my clear goggles for eye protection.

Well hydrated skin functions better than dehydrated skin. However, applying lotion to exposed skin in extreme cold temperatures is not recommended. Apply the lotion at night and indoors to keep the skin healthy.

I have been advised to not wash vigorously in cold weather. Let the oils accumulate of the skin. Presumably it will help a bit...

What happens if you do that? Does the lotion freeze on your face before it gets absorbed?

[quote=BingleyWhat happens if you do that? Does the lotion freeze on your face before it gets absorbed? [/quote]

Several things happen. One is that most of the lotions (not the vasoline) contain water. The evaporation removes a hugh amount of heat. Some also have a high heat transfer rate and increase heat loss. The lotion or petrolium based products add or stop removal of water from the skin, increasing heat loss (think wet insulation) and increasing the amount of frozen water which increases damage. The most insideous and possibly the most important is that many make the body feel warmer and decrease concern and attention to frostbite. Because of the lack of attention, it is not noticed and corrected before it causes serious problems.

Respectfully,

Jerry