Yes, there is !
During the first two weeks of lockdown I felt so grateful for the opportunity to slow down. Despite feeling restful, I developed a cold sore and red blotchy skin at the start of the third week of lockdown. The last time I had a cold sore was 15 years ago when I was preparing for a big job interview. As for red, blotchy skin, how was it possible? I’m a skin therapist!
Over the next few days, clients started calling to tell me they were also experiencing strange flareups that they don’t usually get, including redness, dryness and eczema like conditions on the face and hands.
After remote consultations with clients and giving thoughts to what we’re going through, I believe the following are some of the reasons causing what I call “isolation skin”.
Stress and anxiety due to uncertainties can manifest itself in skin flare-ups like breakouts, dryness and redness.
Frequent handwashing is one of the best ways to stop the spread of Covid-19, however, strong detergents and alcohol in sanitizers can strip the skin’s natural oil and destroy our microbiome leaving the skin dry, itchy and inflamed.
Unknowingly touching your face or rubbing your eyes after using sanitizers can leave chemical residues causing your face to flareup, especially if you have sensitive skin.
KEEP IT SIMPLE BUT POWERFUL.
Now is a great time to keep things simple and not overload your skin (e.g. by trying all the samples you’ve ever collected). Stick to a routine of cleanse, tone and moisturise, morning and night.
Most of you are already moisturizing so you may as well use a powerful moisturiser containing key skin vitamins A, B, C, E. Combined, they are a group of powerful antioxidants that have been proven to repair and regenerate. Our body cannot make these vitamins so we must get them through food, supplements or topical applications. Be mindful of ingredients that have negative effects on the skin such as preservatives, emulsifiers and fragrance.
If you are experiencing “isolation skin” issues, please reach out as they can be alleviated.