Skin Issues Caused By Coronavirus Lockdown, And How To Deal With Them
If you’re not one of the many essential workers either laboring to save lives during the coronavirus pandemic or provide those of us able to stay home with the necessities to stay there, you’re probably not going outside much right now.
Chances are you’re eating different foods. You may not be exercising as much. Or maybe you’re exercising more. You may not be sleeping well, or at odd times. And you’re likely pretty stressed out right now.
As a result of all of this ― plus all the other factors in your life ― your skin is probably freaking out in a number of ways. We talked to two dermatologists about how to take care of your skin when all your normal routines have been upended.
“Your skin is a reflection of your overall health,” said Heather D. Rogers, owner of Modern Dermatology in Seattle and Doctor Rogers Restore skin care. “Focusing on just your skin is too microscopic.”
You need to take care of your whole self.
Get enough sleep
“You need a schedule and you need to get eight hours of sleep,” Rogers said. She suggests setting an alarm to tell you when to go to bed, as well as when to get up.
This seems very simple, but inadequate sleep can cause your body to release more cortisol (the stress hormone) that can cause inflammation in your skin, which can manifest as acne or psoriasis.
Remember to exercise.
You’ve probably heard that exercise causes your body to release endorphins, those wonderful little morphine-like hormone molecules that elevate your mood.
Exercise also burns cortisone, Rogers said, making it a great way to reduce stress and anxiety and help keep your skin clear.
What if you’re exercising more?
“Exercise elevates testosterone levels, which can wake up acne,” Rogers said.
If you find yourself working out more than once a day because, well, you have the time, just remember to wash your face before and after (as well as taking a shower post workout).
“Please don’t sit around in your sweat,”...
