With 4 weeks of lockdown complete and at the very least 2 more to go, life has changed for everyone in the UK.
Many of us are finding that their daily lives are based at home – whether that means working from home instead of elsewhere, or being on furlough. Some of us are also having to focus on being an educator as well, juggling supporting the kids education alongside work, shopping and assisting vulnerable relatives. For others, not having enough to do is the challenge.
With loss of normal routines and major changes to life’s rhythms, a lot of people are finding this translates to problems with their skin.
Common skin complaints we’re hearing from include acne flare-ups, dry skin, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.
The combination of increased stress and a change in routine can cause all sorts of imbalances, resulting in skin problems.
Some of our clients used to having regular non-surgical skin treatments are starting to see the results wane. We aren’t yet able to offer appointments but more aggressive skincare at home may provide some support in the anti-ageing battle.
However, while Mulberry House Clinic remains closed for treatments, we are able to help clients with advice and skincare products.
7 Skin Tips For Time At Home
- Wear sunscreen every day
If you’re at home, you’re probably outdoors quite a lot more, enjoying the sun. After such a long winter it’s tempting to make the most of it and as ‘it’s only April’ wearing sunscreen may not feel like a priority. But taking your hour’s exercise and then spending time in the garden can add up to a lot more sun exposure than is healthy. The sun causes premature ageing of the skin, damaging DNA and causing lines and wrinkles as well as pigmentation problems.
We’d recommend to all our clients that protecting the skin from the sun is one of the most important things you can do. Get a really good broad spectrum sunscreen and wear it daily, topping up as required. In addition, make sure that you’re not spending too long in the sun – take regular breaks and avoid the peak hours (yes, even in April!) - Drink plenty of water
Dehydration can take its toll on the skin, causing dryness and flakiness. It can also contribute to inflammations and signs of ageing. Drink plenty of water to give the skin the hydration it needs to stay softer and in better condition. Tea and coffee really aren’t as good at hydrating the body. - Review your regular skin care regime
A radical change in lifestyle means that the products and routine you’re used to are not necessarily the best any more. A review and a few careful changes can make a world of difference – especially if you’re suffering from outbreaks of acne or rough skin. This is something we can advise on during a Skype consultation and if required, can prescribe products from our cosmeceutical skin care ranges such as ZO Skin Health. - Home spa treats
Treating your skin to a bit of extra TLC is a great boost. Nearly everyone can benefit from an exfoliating scrub or peel once a week. Simple preparations are available at the supermarket or chemist. For acne or spotty skin, try a steam facial to open up the pores. For dry skin, try a nourishing face pack. - Intensive treatments – upping the ante
There are a host of more aggressive skin products that can be used at home to give your skin a more intensive boost and revitalise your skin with quicker results and more far-reaching benefits. These more intensive regimes may not suit if you’re busy at work, but being out of the public eye while working from home or on furlough means that you can afford to go makeup free and put up with some redness or peeling while the skin renews. We can prescribe medical products that cannot be purchased without prescription. These are available during lockdown. Contact us to book a consultation via Skype. - Work on stress
Perhaps you’ve been worrying about work, finances, family or illness. If you’re finding the lockdown situation stressful then this can have an impact on your skin. Simple stress-relief measures may help you to feel better and benefit your health and wellbeing as well as your skin. Try to eat well and maintain regular exercise. Do share your concerns with someone, as talking it through cna be helpful. Write a list to identify what’s worrying you, then write a suggestion of what you can do. Mindfulness and/or meditation can be helpful too. There is some good advice at https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/coronavirus-covid-19-anxiety-tips/ - Go makeup free!
If you’re not going out or on an important conference call, then why not let your skin have a day off without cosmetics, allowing it to breathe. You’ll still need to cleanse at the end of the day to remove sweat, oil and grime; but you’ll be amazed how much less there is to remove without the addition of makeup too.
- Wear sunscreen every day
Skin Consultations Via Skype
Mulberry House Clinic is offering remote consultations with Dr John Tanqueray.
- Consultation via Skype
- Tailor-made regimes for acne, rosacea, pigmentation and anti-ageing
- Top brand prescription skin care products available
- Cosmeceutical products despatched by post
- Skype follow-up appointments to review and adjust your skin care according to results
To book a Skype consultation, please call 01604 702630 or email info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with vast experience of the industry. Cosmetic skin treatments are carried out by Dr John Tanqueray, who works closely with leading manufacturers to remain at the forefront of the medical aesthetics.
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
