This archive report was first published on 21 April 2020.
Lockdown Locks in Skin Problems ¶
As the world settles into the coronavirus lockdown, many people have noticed a change in their skin. Despite the absence of makeup, pollution, and sun damage, skin is looking dull and breakouts are on the rise.
According to Dr. Mark Hudson-Peacock, a consultant dermatologist at Stratum Dermatology Clinics, common factors contributing to these changes include stress, a different diet, a lack of Vitamin D, and a change in skincare routines.
Published on April 21, 2020, Dr. Mark explains that while the lockdown reduces exposure to ultraviolet light, it also reduces vitamin D activation, leading to dull skin.
“Often called the 'sunshine vitamin', vitamin D plays an integral role in skin protection and rejuvenation,” Dr. Mark says. “It is activated in the skin by Ultraviolet B light and, in its activated form as calcitriol, vitamin D is involved with skin cell growth, repair, and metabolism.”
Dr. Mark recommends taking vitamin D supplements, but advises getting a doctor's approval first. He also suggests using three staple skincare products: an antioxidant, an SPF, and topical retinoids at night.
Stress and lack of sleep are also major contributors to skin problems. Dr. Adam Friedmann, a consultant dermatologist, explains that stress can make it harder to sleep, and a loss of sleep can influence the skin's ability to heal.
“At night, the skin relaxes. It’s not under any stress so it can recuperate after a hard day. Your skin cells go into regeneration mode, replacing damaged or dead cells with new ones. When sleep is reduced, so is the body’s ability to carry out these functions,” Dr. Adam says.
He also notes that for those with eczema, stress can aggravate the condition, but reducing anxiety or stress levels may ease symptoms.
Other factors contributing to skin problems include a change in diet and lack of exercise. Dr. Adam recommends eating a healthy and balanced diet, with a focus on vegetables and salads, which can help soak up free radicals and improve skin health.
Finally, Dr. Mark suggests getting outside for some light exposure, which can be beneficial for skin health, general health, and mental health.
“Just 15 to 30 minutes of daily sun exposure can be helpful in addressing all of these issues, so go for a walk or a run, sit on your balcony or on your patio, or open your window and breathe in the air and get some light on your skin,” Dr. Mark says.
