Kids A health and safety column from Children's Mercy of Kansas City, Mo. If you're thinking about traveling over the winter months, a dry forecast can be good news.
Cold temperatures wring the humidity out of the air.
Heating the indoor air with a fire dries it out even more. Without a proper, effective humidified, the air is Sahara-like. Adding to the winter skin woes are chapped lips and sun-damaged skin, especially among skiers and other outdoor enthusiasts. That makes kids' skin a primary concern because it's next to impossible to keep them indoors all winter long. Contrary to popular belief, licking promotes dryness by removing the skin's natural oils.