How to Manage Skincare During the Coronavirus Pandemic

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to grow and affect the world, we have become more aware as to how the virus leaves an impact on the human body. Other than the lungs, which it mainly attacks, the coronavirus also brings a toll on the skin. Doctors are reporting patients complaining of severe rashes, blisters and bumps, and those who have recovered from the coronavirus also contracting such skin problems. Hair loss and weak nails are also seen in patients of the coronavirus, and researches are going on whether these conditions are the body's respond to the virus or the way the hormones react to COVID-19.

Other skin conditions seen in patients of the coronavirus include flat red patches and small red bumps and blisters, common in those who are more severely affected by the virus. Most commonly seen in children with the coronavirus are chilblains, or purple-red skin that can be itchy and very uncomfortable. Some patients have also contracted hives and blisters with some swelling, and water blisters have also been common.

Since the body's iron levels are severely dropped in the coronavirus, hair loss and brittle nails are also inevitable, and need proper care for recovery over the time. Washing and sanitizing the hands and wearing a mask are essential to fight COVID-19, but these can also dry out the skin and leave it damaged.

The World Health Organization [WHO] recommends washing the hands with soap for at least for 20 seconds to keep them germ free or use an alcohol based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. While both steps are utmost important, they leave the hands dry and chapped due to frequent washing and sanitizing.

Wearing a mask for long durations can also cause acne and make the skin prone to itching, rashes and allergies. Those working in healthcare, salons, retail and restaurants have to wear masks for longer hours and this can cause chaffing of the skin especially on the bridge of the nose and behind the ears. Sweat can also cause or worsen acne and can breakouts on the skin can become common.

Here are a few tips to manage skincare during the coronavirus pandemic:

To Prevent Chapped & Dull Hands:

Use lukewarm or cool water to wash hands as hot water can dry out the skin even more
As frequently that you use sanitizers and wash hands, use a good quality hand cream and a moisturizer for severely dry skin to protect and nourish your hands
Creams that are hypoallergenic and free of fragrances work best to combat rough and dry hands that are prone to rashes and blisters
Use an oil-based cream or petroleum jelly frequently on your hands, or apply a thick layer and wear cotton gloves before bed to let the skin heal over night
Although antibacterial cleansers and soaps are essential, they can damage your skin with frequent use, so be sure to keep your bottle of moisturizer right next to antibacterial soaps and remember to use the moisturizer too after every hand wash

To Minimize Chafing & Acne from Wearing a Mask:

Cleaning and moisturizing the skin is essential, with products that will not clog your pores
Avoid using heavy moisturizers on the face as they may cause breakouts if you are constantly wearing a mask
Use only water based cleansers and moisturizers if you have oily skin
If you develop blisters on your face, use an ointment to prevent any further spread
Avoid touching your face or eyes, and make sure to wash your hands properly before touching the face
If you are already under treatment for acne, continue to use the prescribed ointments and medication only
Avoid popping and squeezing any blisters and acne as they can further cause inflammation and infection