During the polar vortex, local temperatures reached down to -40 degrees.

During this frigid time, it could have only taken a mere 10 minutes for exposed skin to become frost bitten.

The solution? Face masks, hats, gloves and scarfs‒all in multiple layers.

Add lip balm to the mix as well. Because the lips don’t contain oil glands, like the rest of your skin, dry out when exposed to extreme cold or sun according to Healthline.

Your hands, nose, cheeks and anything uncovered are at high risk for frostbite.

According to LiveScience, a body can lose up to 45 percent of its heat through the head, so wearing a hat is key to staying warm.

With all this science in mind, a trudge to the school bus or an afternoon at the ski hill can still be enjoyed if the proper preparations are made.

Wearing a face mask can help prevent frostbite on the exposed face area. In chilling temperatures the face and their features are the first to be frostbitten because gloves and hats are what we think about to help protect us while shoveling snow or cleaning off the car.

Chapsticks help prevent chapped lips and frostbite. The cold targets the hands, feet, ears, nose and lips. Chapstick is beneficial but be careful as many chapsticks can have harmful ingredients that can be more harmful than good.

Hats and scarfs will also help. Losing almost half of your body heat through your head can be avoided if you wear hats. Hats can be fashionable and a lifesaver during frigid air conditions.

Wearing long coats will also be a great benefit during the cold temperatures, coming down to your knees and covering your thighs sitting on cold benches waiting on the bus or just walking around helping with chilling winds.

No you’re not imagining things. You might just be addicted to chapstick. “The irritation creates a never-ending cycle of Carmex addiction.” TheCut said. Many people can be allergic to menthol and camphor and the irritating sensation can also feel like an addiction because you feel obligated to use it once the sensation is over.

Mid Michigan has seen about 51 inches of snow thus far, and more to come. Temperatures have also been the highest and lowest this winter season. The last time we reached -40 was back in 1982.