- Trends
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by JuliaLifting
Truths and false myths about COVID-19 and cosmetics
Rumors such as using cosmetics increases the spread of coronavirus and we should stop using them during the pandemic – these are just some of the comments going around at the moment, saying there’s a risk in using creams, perfumes and dermocosmetics in general. But how much truth is there in all of this? Fortunately, dear users, none, and even less has been proven.
According to Ignacio Seco, CASMARA Laboratory Director, “The first thing we should make clear is that it has been proven that this virus does not enter through the skin; it only does so when in contact with mucous membranes, which is why we have been asked to be extra careful with our mouth, nose and eyes. In other words, the biggest risk would be touching a surface contaminated by the virus and then touching any of these areas (eyes, mouth or nose) with your hand”.
As well as our Laboratory Director, some specialist dermatologists have also discussed these rumors, such as Dr. Ricardo Ruiz, Director of the International Dermatological Clinic, commenting in online newspaper El Español: “Don’t believe the ‘fake news’ stating that using cream on your hands or skin increases virus penetration. There are no definitive studies proving that the virus lives in these everyday products.”
Another thing to bear in mind: during lockdown, you stay at home most of the time, so the risk of the virus being on a surface is minimal. While it’s true that there could always be a risk, and when you go out shopping or to work, you might touch something without realizing and then bring it into the house without knowing, it’s unlikely you’ll find the virus on a cosmetic container, especially since they’re usually stored in the bathroom or a cupboard, and because you wash your hands before applying them. Therefore, the risk of them being contaminated by the virus is minimal. Nevertheless, if the containers are in a minimal risk area, we recommend washing them with soap and water before and after use to make sure they’re perfectly safe.
What’s more, our other recent posts have been discussing how being at home affects your skin and how to care for it properly. It’s times like these that you should take special care. You should know that toxic or environmental residues are not only found outside the house. In fact, studies show that the air inside your home can be up to 100 times more polluted than the air in the street (indoor pollution). Therefore, it’s very important to cleanse and care for your skin now, more than ever.
Invisible pollution in the home environment, poor ventilation, lack of sunshine, heating, as well as the persistent use of disinfectant gels and soaps, is making your skin (whether your face, hands or other body parts) unbalanced, with imperfections (excess sebum, dilated pores, even spots), or looking devitalized, dehydrated, and dull. It’s important to know that, in the medium term, this results in problems such as premature aging, dehydration, irritation, premature wrinkles, and even flaking, among others.
The American Academy of Dermatology defends using skin creams during this pandemic, stating on their official website that very dry skin may crack, leaving some areas exposed with wounds, which are a point of entry for viruses, bacteria, and other germs. For example, applying a good moisturizing hand cream after washing your hands helps to heal dry skin.
Ignacio Seco, CASMARA Dermocosmetics Laboratory Director, says that you should ideally use products with an airless system (vacuum-sealed) as opposed to jars, which could be easily contaminated by direct contact with the fingers every time you apply them.
Also, after using cleansing gels or soaps on your hands or face, at CASMARA laboratory, we recommend that you apply a moisturizing and/or nourishing cream to help protect your skin from dehydration and other conditions.
As skincare experts, we want to share some precautionary measures with you on how to use your cosmetics properly during this time:
– It’s vitally important to use creams after persistent hand washing, as this affects the hydrolipidic layer of this delicate area, reducing its natural protection; so a good hand cream is essential to protect and keep it healthy.
– Before applying a cosmetic product to your skin, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. The correct way is to wash for 20 seconds (the time it takes to “destroy” the virus), doing so thoroughly up to your wrists. Constantly washing with soap and water is the most effective way to disinfect, even more so than using hand sanitizer gels.
– Normally, your daily beauty routine involves applying various products (ampoule, serum, cream, etc.). Remember, washing your hands before applying each and every one is recommended.
– CASMARA recommends cleansing your face at least twice a day (morning and night) with a cleanser that respects the pH levels of your skin.
Immediately after washing your face, you should use a moisturizing cream to care for and protect your skin. And don’t forget to apply hand cream too!
– Don’t share make-up or cosmetics, as we know that the virus is transmitted through contact with the mucous membranes, such as the nose or mouth. We also recommend washing any sponges, brushes or spatulas used to apply them every day.
– Don’t wear false eyelashes during the pandemic. They’re difficult to sterilize and there’s a risk of touching your eyes more often than usual.
– Using protective masks may cause facial dermatitis and allergies. We recommend using a balm containing soothing and restorative ingredients on areas that may become red easily from wearing them.
– If you have to leave the house for work, you should apply a sunscreen every day, and if you’re at home, it’s important to apply a cream that protects against indoor pollution and blue light, because during lockdown, you’re spending too much time exposed to screens and LED lights, which can also cause premature aging, dark spots, and skin conditions.
Now you know how to keep your cosmetics safe, make sure you continue to care for and pamper your skin at home. Keep your skin cleansed, moisturized and protected. Discover new habits, take the time to apply a face mask or that peel that your skin has been begging you for – it’ll thank you! In our CASMARA Secrets blog, we have lots of ideas, so now you can care for your skin like never before – take a look and take care of yourself!