It isn’t hard to notice the beautifying effects of the bitter cold weather each time you look in the mirror. Protecting the skin from the sun, snow and wind isn’t easy, but it is extremely important.

Chapped lips and dry skin are two of the areas that require protection, no matter what the season.

“Lips are a good indicator for the rest of your body, if they need moisture then the rest of your body does too,” said Rose Topp, a skin-care specialist.

Topp suggests products that are high in moisture such as water based creams and lotions, rather than ones which contain a high amount of oil. She added that drinking plenty of water keeps a balance between the interior and exterior atmospheres.

But there are so many products on the shelf that promise to rejuvenate and replenish the skin, how do you find out if they are right for you?

Test the product. Asking for a sample allows you to see the result without spending tons of money.

Kelly Vidovic, owner of Anatomy, a day spa in San Diego, said a complete daily routine is recommended.

“Cleansing the face with a good exfoliant sluffs off any dry, dead, skin,” she said. “By doing this, it allows a moisturizer to absorb better into the skin.”

Whether on your lips or your face, she suggests using a moisturizer with an SPF of at least 15. To treat dry chapped hands, she recommends a product by Aveda, called Intensive Hydrating Mask, to be applied at night and covered by a cotton fabric to seal in moisture.

This can also be used as an all-over body moisturizer. At Anatomy, they focus on the natural ingredients used by the entire line of Aveda.

Here are a few things to remember when gearing up for the winter exposure:

Wear a hat. It is a fact that most of your body heat escapes through your head.

Dress in layers. Wear an undershirt that fits close to the body in a lightweight fabric-such as silk or cotton. Next, layer with a thick wool or cotton sweater, and top it with a light weight, waterproof jacket to keep your clothes dry.

Use a moisturizer with an SPF of at least 15. The wind and cold can create chapping, so remember to moisturize any exposed skin. Just because the temperatures are below 30, the sun’s rays are still as intense.

Don’t neglect your lips and eyes. Keep a tube of Chapstick in your pocket. Be sure to choose a lip balm with sunscreen. Go wild and try a new flavor like mango berry, or Dr. Pepper. Also, don’t forget to protect your eyes with sunglasses.