Lockdown tips: Skin care during the times of Corona

We have entered lockdown 30 and still have uncertain times ahead of us As much as this lockdown has given us an unprecedented break from our busy routine it also has brought with itself a fair share of stress anxiety and a fear of the unknown for the future Since most of us are at home a little extra self care will go a long way in not only giving the right attention to ourselves but also making us feel a lot betterIt is probably the best time to develop a routine and develop a skin care regimen in the most intricate and personalised manner Skin care routines will not differ much from the regular phase to a lockdown phase However certain skin conditions may be more common due to the change of hygiene measures and routines that have been incorporated in our livesDr Samipa S Mukherjee Consultant Dermatologist Cloudnine Group of hospitals gives a sneak peek into it It is important to remember that if you have a skin condition that needs attention consider using video consultation services with dermatologistsSkin care routineThe basic three steps of skin care remain the same Prolonged usage of mask can cause bruising pigmentation pressure related changes on the skin or contact dermatitis to the material of the mask for which you may need to meet your dermatologistCleansing moisturising and sunscreens are a persons best friend when it comes to pampering the skin The choice of cleansersfacewashessoaps depends on the skin type Those of you with a dry or sensitive skin type should prefer a cleansing lotion that is non foaming since they are milder and do not aggravate dryness For those with oily skin a gentle foaming face wash or a moisturising soap twice daily would do the job The choice of moisturisers again is tough with so many products available in the market You may choose from traditional moisturisers to the newer ones with silky smooth feel to matte finish onesRemember to keep the ingredients of moisturisers to as less in numbers as possible as fragrance free as possible and preferably a pH balanced formulation Sunscreens are a must even when you stay at home Repeat applications of sunscreens during the day is necessary since after 34 hours the sunscreens lose their action So even while staying at home it may be necessary to apply sunscreen at least 23 times during the day timeMost of the sunscreens available today are matte finish so they are very well cosmetically acceptable While at home in case you do wear makeup it may be worthwhile to use micellar water for make up removal since the makeup used at home are generally short wear water soluble makeup productsCare of the handsHandwashing and routine use of hand sanitisers have become a norm in the COVID times in young and the old alike As much as it keeps the virus at bay a lot of people have started complaining of increased dryness of the hands burning sensation peeling of skin and development of dry patches and developing cracks in the hand skinThis results from repeated hand wash and use of hand sanitisers which destroys the natural moisturisers and protective layer of the skin As much as hand hygiene is necessary during these times few tips will prevent the development of these problemsUse moisturising soaps for hand wash and gel based sanitisersRepeat application of plain moisturisers and petroleum jelly after every hand wash or sanitiser useRepeated use of coconut oil on the hand also helps prevent dryness and flaking of skinWearing hand gloves while using harsh soaps during mopping vessel cleaning or washing clothesMeeting your dermatologist at the earliest if you develop cuts in the skin or dry patches on the hands that do not resolve on moisturiser applicationAvoid long nailsHair careHair care does not differ much from the routine times Washing your scalp every alternate day may be a good idea since it helps in clearing the sweat and grime that accumulates in hot climatic conditions Usage of a conditioner immediately post a mild shampoo helps in improving the texture of the skinHair nutrition diets like almonds green leafy vegetables apples pomegranate and sprouts are a rich source of vitamins and micro minerals required for hair growthDiet and lifestyle changesThe incorporation of simple techniques in routine practice not only helps the skin and hair but also helps in having a healthy mind and body Simple changes in lifestyle and routines will go a long way in giving you not only a beautiful skin but also a healthy mind and bodyExercising daily and meditating for sometime during the day is a good option Eat foods rich in antioxidants like lemons limes tomatoes haldi Do not binge or overeat and drink plenty of waterCatch up on all the latest Mumbai news crime news current affairs and a complete guide from food to things to do and events across Mumbai Also download the new midday Android and iOS apps to get latest updates MidDay is now on Telegram Click here to join our channel middayinfomedialtd and stay updated with the latest newsThis 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