Let's be honest, 2020 was not the year any of us had planned. In fact, 2020 as one of the most stressful and anxiety-inducing years many of us will have experienced. Our lives have been turned upside down and our worlds have become a lot smaller.
With the prospect of an uncertain 2021 we've had a look at what effect lockdown could be having on our skin, and look at ways to combat it. We've been through a perfect storm of worry and stress, and for many of us health problems or sickness. Add to this extra time indoors, less physical exercise, face coverings, constant sanitising, trouble sleeping.... basically, the results are not good for you or your skin.
Stress causes our bodies to release the hormone cortisol which can affect hair, nails and our skin. In fact, it can contribute to a wide range of skin conditions. Our skin may be less able to defend itself, in turn delaying the healing process.
Cortisol can break down collagen, which is why someone who is dealing with stress feels like they have developed wrinkles overnight. It is not uncommon for someone to experience persistent dryness and itchiness too.
Thankfully taking care of your skin not only helps you look better but it can give your mood a boost - after all self-care is a great way to treat yourself and take some time out from the daily realities of pandemic life. Adapting your skincare routine to your daily needs might be a good treatment for the body and the soul.
We'll take a look at how you can add to your routine to give your skin a boost during lockdown:
1 - Use products that contain anti-inflammatory ingredients to help improve redness, flakiness and itching
Innisfree have a great range of mositurisers designed to target specific skin complaints. Their Jeju Cherry Blossom Cream has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to heal irritated skin.
If you're looking for deep mositurising and improved skin tone then the Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide in the Jeju Orchid Enriched Cream are on hand to help out. For great all round protection look no further than the incredibly popular Green Tea Seed Cream which hydrates your skin's layers while also forming a protective barrier.
2 - Energise your skin with a shot of vitamins!
Your skin needs nourishment too, and there's some great products out there that can deliver skin food directly where it's needed. Try the COSRX Full Fit Propolis Light Cream to deliver a formula of bitter orange flower and six vitamins, all selected to refresh and revive. Bee pollen is a renowned multi-vitamin substance which strengthens and protects the skin, and with the Missha Bee Pollen Renew Ampouler you'll get a whole lot of pollen for your money.
3 - Apply a rich textured mosituriser to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated for longer
The clear winner here is the Etude House Moistfull Collagen Cream which, with its combination of collagen and Baobab water, keeps your skin hydrated for a massive 12 hours.
4 - Use the power of Madecassoside to restore and heal the skin barrier
This wonder-ingredient is a must have in any routine. A great option for irritated and sore skin is the A'pieu Madecassoside Cica Gel, designed to soothe and calm.
5 - Protect your skin from UV rays using a high factor SPF
Just because we are spending more time inside doesn't mean we can neglect the SPF! Take a look at our range of skincare sunscreens and make sure you're protected before heading out for your daily exercise.
6 - Don't neglect the thinnest areas of your skin
The thinnest areas of our skin are also the most vulnerable and the first to show signs of stress. Take care of your under-eye area with the Benton Fermentation Eye Cream which contains a great mix of Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe and Panthenol to repair and hydrate. Lips are vulnerable too, so treat them with the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, which has the added bonus of a great cherry flavour.
Lockdown won't be for ever, but in the meantime taking care of your skin can make these dark days a little more bearable. Better times are ahead x
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