Special Demands on our Skin Care in the Context with COVID-19
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect our lives, I want to shed light on the unique demands it places on our skin care routines.
The Impact of Frequent Hand Washing
To reduce the risk of virus transmission, we are washing our hands far more frequently than before, often with alcohol solutions and detergents, not just water. This frequent washing strips the skin of its lipids and hydro-lipid barrier, which the skin cannot regenerate quickly enough. The result is very dry, irritated, and cracked skin, creating an ideal entry point for harmful bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. For individuals with hand eczema, this excessive washing can lead to a worsening of symptoms, creating a vicious cycle where the skin cannot heal itself.
Preventive measures include using a moisturising product consistently after every hand wash. To accelerate regeneration, applying a thick layer of cream overnight and covering it with cotton gloves can help. Products that moisturise, strengthen the skin barrier, and maintain a balanced microbiome are especially beneficial for those prone to eczema, who often have higher S. aureus colonisation.
Skin Care Challenges from Mask-Wearing
Wearing a mask to prevent infection also presents challenges, particularly in the mouth-chin area. The occlusion effect under the mask creates a warm, humid environment, which can lead to skin swelling, a disturbed skin barrier, and an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. This can result in "perioral dermatitis," a skin reaction caused by the unfriendly environment.
Frequent mask changes and thorough rinsing are crucial, especially for sensitive or impure skin. Skincare products worn under the mask should be light, support the skin barrier, and help maintain a balanced microbiome. Stressed skin can also benefit from black tea compresses. To prepare, boil black tea, infuse for 20 minutes, leave it to cool, and place cotton pads soaked in the tea on the affected area. Cotton masks are particularly suitable for daily use because they are more skin-friendly and easier to clean thoroughly.
COVID-19 and Skin Health
Discussions have also arisen about a potentially higher risk of infection for skin patients taking immunomodulatory drugs. A suppressed immune system can result in a more severe course of COVID-19, making preventive measures even more critical for these individuals.
COVID-19 infection itself can also manifest on the skin, as seen with other viral diseases. The Academia Española de Dermatología y Venereología identifies five clinical patterns, ranging from chickenpox-like blisters to signs of small blood vessel occlusion. Such conditions should always be evaluated by a dermatologist.