Experts recommend 5 ways in winter to protect skin health and stay warm in cold weather

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As winter weather moves in, cozy essentials like scarves, plush throws and heated bedding become everyday comforts. But dermatologists caution that these cold-weather favorites can secretly undermine skin health — trapping sweat and bacteria, causing irritation and exposing the skin to excess heat. Choosing the right materials for wellness — and using them safely — can make a big difference. VIRAL ALL-WHITE WELLNESS PUSH COULD BOOST MENTAL HEALTH — HERE ARE 4 ESSENTIALS TO CONSIDERHere are five winter must-haves and gift ideas, with expert tips on how to keep skin healthy and happy while staying warm this season.Soft scarf, $19.99, Amazon.com Scarves made of natural fiber, like this one that is 100% cotton, may help if you’re prone to irritation. (Amazon)A soft scarf is a staple for cold days and an easy way to elevate a winter outfit.Yet if breakouts are appearing along the neck, jawline or chest, that favorite accessory may be part of the problem.BACKYARD BIRDING IS BOOMING — HERE ARE MUST-HAVE GIFTS TOPPING WISH LISTS THIS SEASON”You should wash your scarf as often as your clothes to prevent breakouts,” Annabelle Taurua, a beauty expert at Fresha, a beauty and wellness booking platform headquartered in London, told Fox News Digital.Cotton is a better choice than polyester, she also noted, as it’s more breathable and allows sweat to evaporate.Fluffy blankets, $28.97, Potterybarn.com Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin — which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth. (Pottery Barn)Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin, which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth. Rough textures or infrequent washing can also irritate sensitive skin and worsen breakouts.CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES”Regularly wash your blankets, especially those made from synthetic or fluffy materials, to remove built-up oils and dirt,” Taurua advised.She recommended breathable materials like cotton or linen, as well as hypoallergenic options for anyone prone to irritation.Good set of sheets, $49.99, Amazon.com Much like scarves, natural fibers are the way to go for your linens to avoid irritation. (iStock)Cold weather makes lingering in bed especially tempting, but lying on unwashed bedding can worsen acne.Pillowcases and sheets quickly collect oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, which transfer directly onto the face.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER”Washing bedding frequently is important,” Taurua said. “You should aim to change and wash your pillowcases every two to three days and your sheets at least once a week.”Heated blanket, $33.99, Walmart.com Heated blankets are a great way to stay warm during the winter. (Walmart)When using a heated blanket, start with the lowest heat setting and limit use, said Taurua.”Once you’re warm, switch to a regular blanket,” she advised.CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APPShe also said it’s best to avoid direct contact for long periods to reduce irritation.Hot water bottle, $12.99, Amazon.comA traditional winter staple, hot water bottles offer quick comfort — but they come with risks similar to heated blankets, including burns, scalding and long-term heat-related skin damage. Hot water bottles should never be filled with boiling water, experts advise. (Amazon)”Never fill a hot water bottle with boiling water,” Taurua said. “Only use hot, not boiling, water, and fill it to a maximum of two-thirds.”TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZShe recommended wrapping the bottle in a towel or cover to avoid direct skin contact and limiting use to around 20 minutes. Khloe Quill is a lifestyle production assistant with Fox News Digital. She and the lifestyle team cover a range of story topics including food and drink, travel, and health. 



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