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Addressing the skin is a gateway to overall health and well-being. Why? Because the skin is our largest visible organ and has many functions. Our skin gives us insight into our immune function, nutrition, oxidative stress, and metabolic issues. Additionally, it is our first line of defense against infection, environmental stressors, and loss of nutrients and water.
The gut microbiome has become a popular topic in recent years, but what about our skin microbiome? Our skin microbiome protects us from infection by crowding out overgrowth of pathogenic organisms. Due to Covid-19, our new normal is somewhat defined by hyper-sterilization. We are constantly washing our hands, using hand sanitizers, and frequently wiping down surfaces with disinfectant wipes. These are guidelines that must be followed to help limit the spread of Covid-19; but what are the implications, and what can we do to preserve and improve the function of this important protective barrier?
The same sanitizers that are helpful in preventing the transmission of viruses are very harmful to our skin. They must contain alcohols to be effective germ killers; however, they are killing the good and bad bacteria on our hands and causing major harm to our skin barrier through damage to the skin’s natural lipids and fatty acids. Handwashing, although a better option, can be drying and damaging as well.
What to do
- Hand-sanitizers should be your last resort- There will be times when hand sanitizers are your only option. In these instances, keep a hand sanitizer on hand which includes hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera or glycerin, and one that has the minimum CDC alcohol requirement.
- Always opt for handwashing- Although a better alternative, frequent handwashing can also damage the skin. It is important to choose hand soaps that do not include harsh sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate. Look for soaps including aloe, milk, honey, or oatmeal.
- Use natural hand creams- Moisturizing promotes regrowth of healthy bacteria while restoring the skin’s lipids, which are crucial for an effective skin barrier. Hand creams should be used immediately after handwashing and, just like hand soaps, should not include harsh sulfates. Look for hand creams that include natural fats such as coconut oil, seed oils, and cocoa or shea butter.
References:
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/how-to-care-for-your-skin-microbiome-during-covid-19
About the Author:
Grace Majchrowicz received her undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from Grove City College and her Master’s Degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in strength and conditioning from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and has designed and helped conduct research studies related to supplementation and performance, exercise and mood, and rest periods as they relate to gains in strength and power. Grace presented two of these research studies at the 2016 and 2017 Mid-Atlantic Regional Chapter meetings of the American College of Sports Medicine and is a published co-author in the Journal of Exercise and Nutrition. As a graduate assistant at Indiana University of Pennsylvania she provided personal training to local volunteer firefighters and performed fitness-based exercise testing for Pennsylvania Police Academy candidates. In her free time she enjoys hiking and spending time with her family.
