In my search for blog-worthy material this morning, I came across a great subject in Powder Magazine: Skiing, Sun and Skin.

I've spent a fair amount of time exposed to mountain elements, having grown up in Montana and lived in Colorado, Idaho and now Wyoming. My skin has certainly suffered and I'll be the first one to "accidentally forget" my sunscreen when the sun starts to really shine and spring skiing is in full swing. I mean, let's be honest, there's nothing like a little Vitamin D after a stormy winter.

So I was excited to come across Dr. Wu's advice in Powder's article and thought it was worth sharing. I love a good sun soak as much as the next person, but know how important it is to SPF-up come sunshine season. Here are a few highlights:

1. Don't skimp on the sunscreen. According to the article, snow can reflect up to 80% of the sun's rays. Add that to the high altitude and sunscreen suddenly becomes your best friend. Wu suggests reapplying 2-3 times a day when outside.

2. Apply moisturizing lotions to face and body, preferably right after a shower when your skin is absorbing moisture from the water.

3. Exfoliate with a loofah or other body scrub to shed dead skin and decrease itchiness.

4. Don't be afraid of a good spa session. A paraffin hand and foot dip can do wonders for dry hands and feet.