How To Beat The Cold, From De-Icing Your Car To Preventing Frozen Pipes

Wearing several layers of clothes, rather than one chunky layer, is the best way to stay warm, says the NHS. It recommends clothes made from cotton, wool or fleecy fibres, which help to maintain body heat. 

You should also wrap a scarf loosely around your mouth when outdoors. Add a hat, plus wear shoes with a good grip, it advises. 

Looking for some cosy inspo? Check out our roundup of the best puffer jackets for men and women or read our advice on keeping your baby warm – but not too warm – here.  

How To Heat Your Home The Smart Way

It’s a myth that it’s cheaper to keep your heating on low all day, instead of just when you need it, according to the Energy Saving Trust. If you’re in a really cold area, setting a timer when you’re away from your home can limit the chance of frozen pipes. 

You should also ensure drafts around your home are blocked up, says Sunny Solanki, an engineer at British Gas. “Fitting draught excluders is a quick, easy and affordable way to cut down on your energy bills and draught-proof your home,” he says. “Letterbox brushes, chimney balloons and even keyhole coverings can make a real difference.”

He also recommends reorganising your furniture so big items like sofas are not blocking radiators. 

How To Look After Your Skin

Cold weather can lead to dry and chapped skin, but to limit the impact, Lisa Bickerstaffe from the British Skin Foundation previously told HuffPost UK you should try to keep trips outside short. “If your feet and clothes are wet from the snow, be sure to change out of them as soon as possible to avoid irritation and chafing,” she said. 

Dermatologist Dr Bav Shergill explained that the drier air in centrally heated buildings can cause skin to dry out quicker, so you shouldn’t whack your thermostat up to maximum in snowy weather. 

He also recommended avoiding the temptation of a long hot bath, as this can “strip away much needed natural oil from the skin”.

If your lips feel in need of a little TLC after the cold weather, our roundup of the best lip balms could help.