LIPBALM

Vaseline Lip Therapy SPF 15, Boots.com, 99p, 20g

According to the dermatologist Dr Nick Lowe, lip balm should be worn all the time, even under lipstick. Vaseline's lip therapy helps to maintain the skin's natural moisture, and the sun protection factor guards against UVA damage, keeping your lips soft.

DRESS FOR THE COLD

Autograph Pure Cashmere Knitted Gloves, £15, Scarf, £19.50, and Plain Pull On Cashmilion (cashmere mix) Hat, £4, Marksandspencer.com

Prevention is better than cure, so wrap up warm. Invest in a woolly hat and gloves to keep the heat in and the cold out.

SUNGLASSES FOR BRIGHT WINTER SUNSHINE

Sunglasses-shop.co.uk, from £12

Whether you choose to emanate Top Gun's classic aviators or the latest trend for Rayban Wayfarers, make sure that your shades provide at least 98 per cent protection from UV rays. All the glasses from the Sunglasses Shop provide 100 per cent UV protection.

GET A FLU JAB

Flu is a winter killer, claiming the lives of about 5,000 people every year. Go get the jab if you are over 65, or are under 65 and suffer from severe asthma, a heart condition, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, lowered immunity because of disease or treatment, stroke.

BOOSTING WELLBEING

Winter is a bleak time but there are ways to stave off the blues. Make the most of sunshine by going for a walk; 85 per cent of us do this to bolster our mood when we're feeling blue. And why not try a sponsored walk or fun run? The training will get you out and setting a goal will keep you motivated.

HAND CREAM

Elizabeth Arden Eight-Hour Cream Intensive Moisturising Hand Treatment, Debenhams.com, £20, 75ml

This cream is thick enough to provide protection without being greasy and also has soothing emollients to soften dry skin. Expensive, but you need only a tiny bit.

SPF CREAM FOR BRIGHT WINTER DAYS

Eucerin Hydro-protect, Boots.com, £13.19, 50ml

It's always wise to wear sunscreen, even when it's not sunny. The easiest way is by using a moisturiser with SPF, and make sure that it also protects against UVA and UVB rays, both of which increase the risk of skin cancer. Eucerin is a good all-round protector.

THE BEST FABRICS

Thermals, Damart.co.uk, Marksandspencer.com, from £10 Winter clothing is all about layers. Thermals are a good option and are not always frumpy. Cotton retains moisture close to the body, which can increase heat loss, so it is better to choose merino wool or synthetic fabrics.

DRINKS TO AVOID

Despite warming your cockles, mulled wine increases heat loss. The alcohol widens blood vessels in the skin, bringing the blood closer to the surface. Caffeinated drinks have the same affect, so avoid tea or coffee if you're feeling chilly.

WARMING FOODS

Regular hot meals and drinks are a must in freezing weather. Eat slow-release energy foods such as rice, pasta, stews and porridge. Avoid foods that produce an energy spike, such as sweets or chocolate.

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