By Terri Vinson, founder Synergie
HOW DOES A PROTECTIVE FACE MASK AFFECT THE SKIN?
With the increased use of protective face masks, many may notice congestion and breakouts around the nose and chin. This is because wearing one significantly reduces the skin’s natural processes, such as absorption of water and beneficial skin ingredients, and removal of excess oil and skin toxins.
Here are some unpleasant but true facts about protective face masks:
The humid environment created by the mask is also a breeding ground for bad bacteria because sweat is not able to evaporate off the skin naturally. There is also the issue of the mask material. Face mask material can include additives such as bleaching agents, perfumes or other questionable materials added during the manufacturing process. Some people may be sensitive or even allergic to these additives and notice irritation, flaking or redness.
WHAT IS THE BEST SKINCARE ROUTINE WHILE IN SELF-ISOLATION?
CLEANSE
Ensure you thoroughly clean your face morning and night with UltraCleanse to remove the excess oil and debris built up on the skin’s surface. As an additional step, I also recommend using a gentle facial scrub, such as MediScrub, on the congested areas once or twice a week to remove surface blackheads.
BALANCE
On a freshly cleansed face, apply a few drops of Dermiotic morning and night before adding your serums. The probiotic lysate and prebiotic skin nutrition restore the skin’s balance of both beneficial and harmful bacteria, helping to prevent the triggers of skin irritation and inflammation.
USE SERUMS
Your most important serum to use is Vitamin B (niacinamide) in order to strengthen the skin, prevent dryness and control excess sebum. This multitasking serum will also boost the immunity of the skin and I recommend applying Vitamin B morning and night.
MOISTURISE
If you are experiencing dry, red or sensitive skin opt for DermaCalm moisturiser. For all other skins use ÜberZinc, as its high levels of zinc oxide are a wonderful anti-inflammatory ingredient.
HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO SANITISE OR WASH MY HANDS?
While you are outside of your home, sanitise your hands with santiser after touching surfaces such as doorknobs, fuel pumps, escalators, shopping trolleys, cash and ATM machines.
Once you are back at home, there is less of a need to sanitise hands. Instead, simply wash your hands once and then you are safe to go about your normal activity. Washing for one minute with soap is recommended to help combat the virus.
OTHER SKINCARE TIPS
- Treat your skin to an indulgent nutrient-rich night-time mask.
- Leftover product? Smooth any remaining product onto the backs of your hands to soothe and repair dry skin after all that washing and sanitising.
- For a little extra hand care, apply a generous amount of nourishing handcream under a pair of cotton gloves right before bedtime.
- Please also try and get out into the sunshine of your garden or balcony during this time. Twenty minutes of early morning sun without protection will provide vital vitamin D (and lift your spirits), but do remember to use your physical sunscreen, such as ÜberZinc, if you are in the sun for longer periods.
If there was ever a time to show self-love, it’s now. Pamper yourself and be diligent with your skincare during this time, but importantly stay safe and stay positive in this ‘new normal’. This too shall pass.
NB: Please note we are unable to ship products at this time. Any orders received will be sent in priority order of when received when the COVID-19 sanctions are lifted.