COVID-19 may be prevented by proper hand wash and wearing face masks. These days, most individuals wash their hands and use sanitizer regularly. Many people also wear face masks while working or move outside of their home, typically for long periods.

These steps are critical for preventing the extent of the coronavirus illness. They can, however, irritate and harm your skin. You can avoid the side effects of using these mandatory things by using several skin care modifications to your face and hands.

This blog will discuss the various skincare tips during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn in detail about the same from Dr. Swetha, the best dermatologist in Indiranagar, Bangalore.

Care of hands

Keeping your hands clean and germ-free is a necessary thing to stay safe from COVID-19. You should wash your hands with water and soap for a minimum of 20 seconds or use a sanitizer, having 60% alcohol.

Washing hands, on the other hand, can drain the natural oil from your hands.

Wear gloves:

Cleaning disinfectants are powerful against germs; however, some components can be rough for your skin. So wear gloves.

Careful with your hands:

You should treat your hands with care. Wash your hands with cold or warm water and soap. Hot water is no longer effective in the fight against bacteria. Hot water, on the other hand, can lead to skin damage.

Do not use an antibacterial cleanser. They’re not very effective at preventing infectious illnesses. They also include substances that might irritate the skin, like fragrances.

Apply moisturizer:

You must pat dry your hands lightly after washing. Use an adequate amount of moisturizer. Choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin so that you do not need to face any side effects. Search for glycerin, urea, or hyaluronic acid-based moisturizer.

Apply a thicker moisturizer to lock in the moisture and prevent water loss. You can keep a thick coating of moisturizer on your hands overnight. Wear cotton gloves as heavier moisturizers might feel greasy.

Regular skin care:

Make it a habit to take care of your skin regularly. Pre and post-using a mask, clean and moisturize the face. Choose products that won’t clog your pores. However, avoid products containing petrolatum.

It can obstruct your mask’s ability to perform its purpose. It creates trouble for the people who wear N95 masks, like health care employees. Choose a water-based moisturizer if you have oily skin.

Use ointment:

Apply a protective layer of ointment to the affected area. A thick coating of cream with zinc oxide helps to protect the skin. It helps in preventing or alleviating skin injuries due to pressure or contact from masks. Use it behind your ears or the nose bridge.

Putting a bandage in between skin and mask is another option. Visit your skin specialist in Indiranagar, Bangalore, for dressings or cooling bandages that fit your skin while using the mask.

Remove blisters:

In case a blister develops, clean it and apply an antibacterial ointment on it. Make a protective layer between the mask and the blister with a bandage.

Get rid of acne:

  • Clean your skin daily if you have acne.
  • Use only a water-based moisturizer.
  • Search for retinoids, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide in acne treatment products.
  • Refrain from pressing since this can cause irritation and infection.

Professional assistance:

Don’t forget to wash your hands and use a mask to protect yourself from COVID-19. Meanwhile, you may protect your skin by following the procedures outlined above.

Talk to your dermatologist right away if you have broken skin that begins bleeding, blisters that evolve into infection and ulcers, or if you face a major skin reaction. Skin problems can make you more prone to illness and may require more than just home care. 

You can also avail of prescription medications and skin treatments at Dr. Swetha’s skin clinic in Indiranagar. 

Care of face

During the COVID-19 epidemic, many hairdressers, restaurants, retail businesses, and health services wore masks on their shifts. Wearing masks is recommended to prevent coronavirus transmission. 

However, masks can cause a scar on your nose bridge, cheeks, chin, and behind your ears. Rash or itching can occur in some cases. Acne outbreaks can be triggered by sweaty or wet circumstances under your mask.