BARBARA, arts, educational & cultural consultant: In search of a solution for you and others plagued with seasonal skin conditions, I spoke with a professional and explored the Internet.

Dr. Susan Taylor, a leader in the field of dermatology, shed some light on the topic.

Runners and others who spend prolonged time periods outdoors need a skin-saving routine.

Taylor’s recommendations:

1) Wash with a very mild cleanser, avoiding harsh soaps. Over-the-counter products such as Dove, Aveeno, and Cetaphil are fine. The liquid form of Cetaphil and Aveeno also replenish as they cleanse.
2) Moisturize daily. A host of over-the-counter products are available including Lubriderm and Cetaphil.
3) Before you run, apply a thin coat of Vaseline on exposed areas to provide a barrier for the skin against wind and dry air.
4) Pull a hat over your full head.
5) Wear a scarf over the face.
6) Use a moisturizing sunscreen as a barrier in winter to guard against the potential danger to the skin. If the sun is out and you run in snowy areas or on reflective surfaces, you run the risk of sunburn. This is especially true of fair-skinned people. For additional information on the skin and Taylor, try www.societyhilldermatology.com.

The winter season affects the skin of many people, said Taylor with Society Hill Dermatology in Philadelphia. If you are outside for extended periods of time, things get worse. The winter wind is strong and our skin loses moisture to the air, she said. Beyond the head and face, a Weight Watchers article, "Cold Weather Skin Care," by Estelle Sobel, offers more great tips.

Meanwhile, if you have chapped lips, keep them covered with a moisturizing chap stick, Vaseline or lip balm. Don’t lick your lips. That makes them drier and more cracked. Your hands also need moisture replenishing and gloves to prevent chapping.

In short, the case for the protection of the winter runner’s skin has been solved with a simple solution. When it comes to winter weather and your skin, stay undercover and stay under wraps. Posted March 05, 2003 02:20 AM