While winter can be a magical time, it is rife with potential health hazards. It is important to take proactive steps before the temperature drops, so that you can look and feel good throughout the entire winter season and breeze into spring. That is why we at Smith-Caldwell Drug Store have put together a list of winter essentials to get you through the cold weather unscathed.
Your Health During Winter
Winter is the season of colds and flus. Proactive healthcare is the best way to stay bug-free during the winter months. This means taking charge of your health, and minimizing your chances of getting sick.
Before Jack Frost nips your nose, make sure you stock up on fruits and vegetables, as well as protein-rich foods. Supplement with vitamins and minerals, available in our pharmacy, and stay hydrated. Water might be the last thing on your mind on an icy cold day, but it is critical you stay topped off to keep your immune system going strong all winter long. If you feel any of the following symptoms, act fast and visit your local pharmacy before you catch cold or flu: .
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Headache or light fever
- Sneezing
- Chills
Staff at a local, independent pharmacy can help identify the problem, and help you find the right medications to ease your symptoms and shorten their duration. The sooner you treat your symptoms, the less likely you are to be bedridden and miserable.
Each medication has its benefits and limitations. There is no cure for the common cold, but certain medicines will help minimize its impact on your overall health. For example, over the counter cough medicine will not eliminate your cough. However, it will soothe your throat and reduce the frequency and discomfort of the cough.
Lastly, be sure to keep a few painkillers handy. Many people forget that one of the strongest symptoms of the flu is muscle aches and pains. It is one thing having a stuffy, runny nose, but aching muscles can make you feel exponentially worse, especially during those all-too-common sneezing fits.
Your Winter Beauty Essentials
While you may be bundling up with comfy sweaters and scarves this winter, there is no reason to neglect your complexion. We have several products that can be purchased at Smith Caldwell to prepare for the Winter season. The cold, dry winter weather can cause a number of common beauty problems, including:
- Dry skin and hair
- Chapped lips
- Weak or dry nails
- Clogged pores
- Dull complexion
Having the right kind of beauty essentials is key to looking great all year round. During winter, you do not necessarily need the same products that you would during the summer. For that reason, we recommend you visit the pharmacy and stock up on the following items:
Winter Hair Products
The type of hair product you need depends on your hair type. If your hair gets frizzy in the cold weather, you will need an anti-frizz serum. If it gets dry, you may benefit from an intense conditioner or leave-in conditioning product.
Moisturiser
While you may use a lighter moisturiser in the summer months, the winter might require you to up your game. Dry skin is common in the winter, so a heavier night cream or more intensive day balm may be suitable.
Lip Balm
Your lips will take a battering in the cold winter air, which will make it difficult for you to wear lipstick and can be very uncomfortable and unsightly. Moisturized lips help you to retain that healthy natural look. A daily lip balm which fits into your pocket will help you to feel confident and wear your makeup without any hiccups.
Moisturizer
Dry hands and nails dry up can be unsightly, but they can also be uncomfortable, or even detrimental. Given enough exposure to the cold winter climate, your hands may lose their natural dexterity as skin and nails begin to tear and crack, which can make everyday tasks feel like a challenge. That is why it is important to keep your hands moisturized. You may need to opt for a more intensive treatment during winter, especially to maintain healthy cuticles and palms. Try applying a generous amount of hand cream before bed, so that you can reap the full benefits overnight without any of the balm rubbing off. Simply applying a moisturizer each morning can make a world of difference in how you look and feel.
All of the products we have listed can be purchased at Smith Caldwell to help you look and feel fabulous this winter. We also have all the medications you might need to prevent or get over a cold or flu. Come to our independent pharmacy and speak to one of our trained staff members to stay healthy and happy this winter.