WHY YOUR SKIN MIGHT BE FREAKING OUT IN ISOLATION Most people would assume that spending all our days in isolation sans make up would result in glowing skin, right? With less makeup and exposure to environmental pollutants, it would make sense that glowing complexions are one of the more positive benefits of the COVID-19 crisis. Well, unfortunately this is not the case for everyone. Whilst some have been lucky to reap the benefits of letting their skin breathe, others not so much. From dryness, to redness, through to blemishes and patchiness, isolation skin is not what it seems. Lifestyles have changed dramatically since staying in has become the new normal. This means we’re spending far more time indoors, where the air quality is generally weaker and we’re exposed to less natural sunlight. On top of the environmental differences, changes in our habits and routine are also having a detrimental effect on our skin. Here are some of things that might be contributing to a skin freak out whilst in isolation.
Lack of morning routine With morning routines out of whack, it can be easy to get up and forgo skincare altogether. Whilst you might not be wearing makeup or showering until noon, your skin still needs active ingredients to repair skin on a cellular level. However your day starts and ends, ensure that you use active ingredient serums every morning and evening. This will benefit the cells which will drink in the active ingredients that can reverse the signs of ageing, repair barrier function, hydrate and reduce inflammation.
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Increase in stress and anxiety There’s no denying that these uncertain times are bringing significant challenges to many people. Unfortunately, an increase in stress can mean an increase in skin problems too. Higher cortisol production caused by stress can cause inflammation leading to breakouts, irritation, red patches and sensitivity. Right now is a great time to go back to your stress management techniques which may involve meditation, regular movement or even limiting exposure to the news and social media. It’s important to stay informed but do so in a balanced and controlled manner that will help keep cortisol levels down (which your skin will thank you for)!
Lack of cleansing If makeup is a thing of your pre-isolation past and you’re using less now, you’d expect your skin to be glowing, right? Well unfortunately for many this isn’t the case because makeup removal and cleansing often go hand in hand. Whether you’re wearing makeup or not, it’s still important that you cleanse your face every day. Household toxins caused by dust, cleaning products and even bedding will still sit on the skin’s surface impacting the microbiome so they must be washed away daily. Ensure that you use a gentle cleanser and microfiber pad to remove invisible toxins and surface dirt just as you normally would. Not only does this clear away any impurities from the skin, but it also opens up the pores to help serums penetrate deeper.
