WINTER IS HERE....and I'm not happy about it

Today is the first official day of winter and I'm not happy about it at all. I despise all things cold and I'm not a fan of snow. I saw my first icicle and I could have cried. Most of all I can't stand what the cold dry air does to my skin. So clearly its time for some quick home remedies to keep my skin looking right and protected.

Please make sure you are exfoliating and moisturizing. It's very important. Salt and sugar scrubs work very well. Sugar scrubs work better for the winter because they put moisture back into the skin. Salt works better for the summer time. You should use a salt scrub no more than twice a month, and no more than twice a week for a sugar scrub.

You can find good scrubs and exfoliates at Bath and Body Works. The jars have an ample amount of product and last a long time. If you don't want to buy one you can make your own! All you need is a few simple ingredients from your kitchen and your bathroom.

• sugar or salt
• jar
• vitamin E
• baby oil or extra virgin olive oil
• fragrance (optional)

Take a jar (any size that you would like) and fill it 3/4 the way with your salt or sugar. Fill the rest of the jar with your choice of baby oil or extra virgin olive oil. Next put in a tablespoon of vitamin E. If you would like your scrub to have a scent you can buy fragrance oils and put in a few drops. You can even mix and match fragrances to make a signature scented scrub.

To use your scrub simply wet the area you want to exfoliate. Stir your scrub (because the oil and and other ingredients will separate) and apply a small amount the the palm of your hand. Rub in small circles then rinse. Be sure to follow up with a thick body butter or cream to keep the area smooth and lock in moisture.

DISCLAIMER: DO NOT EXFOLIATE AFTER YOU SHAVE YOUR LEGS. You should always exfoliate first then shave. If you do it the other way around it could sting, especially if you get a cut from shaving.