Day 18 and still Social Distancing
It’s been 18 days since we’ve been practicing social distancing with our favorite stores and salons closed here in Boston. Initially you’re just worried about keeping yourself and family safe by following the rules of only going out when essential. After a few days I noticed that not only did I have less energy from being inactive, but my skin looked dull. I tried several things that worked for me and decided to share my tips of 5 ways to keep your skin feeling refreshed while social distancing to help you too.
Reduce Stress
The season is spring, but the weather is up and down. In the home, it’s important to open the windows for a bit to let some fresh air. Not only is fresh air good for ventilating the house, the improved air quality is good for your mental health and there is nothing better than fresh air to help ignite the energy within us.
Your skin is affected by many things. Stress can affect your skin and the effects differ on all of us. If you suddenly notice your skin is dry, blotchy, breaking out, dull, stress can be a big factor. The effects of COVID-19 increased our level of stress and emotional well being as we are separated from family, friends, and the activities of our normal daily lives. To help with the stress effects on your skin and emotional health, you will find that adding yoga, meditation and exercise to your day is extremely helpful.
If you are new to yoga and want to try it, here is one I love that you can do from the comfort of your bed. It helps with the neck and shoulders and it’s easy to follow.
Hydrate your body and your face
Drinking water is good for the body because it is a nutrient that really helps to do good things, like keep you hydrated, maintain your body temperature and helps your kidneys. Try to drink a cup of water when you’re thirsty instead of going for the extra cup of coffee or sugary drinks.
Spray water on your face. Hydrating facial mists feel good, adds hydration and helps to refresh your skin. Facial mists will also help to calm irritation and improve your mood. I can’t go a day without my Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe Herbs and Rosewater. I’ve been obsessed with it for years.
There is a list of great facial sprays to try:
- Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe Herbs and Rosewater
- Kopari Coconut Rose Toner
- Elizabeth Arden Miracle 8 Hour Hydrating Mist
- Claudalie Beauty Elixer
- Eau Thermale Avene Thermal Spring Water
- Evian Facial Spray.
Eat better foods
It’s so easy right now to load up on snacks. Junk foods are so easily available and quick to consume. They are also a way some of us comfort ourselves. But you know too much of a good thing is really not good for you at all. While potato chips, candy, cakes and soda might hit the spot because you are both bored and stressed. Now is the time to take a step back to evaluate what you’re eating and add better foods into your diet.
| Instead of eating | Try this |
|---|---|
| potato chips | zucchini chips |
| potato chips | kale chips |
| ice cream | frozen yogurt |
| french fries | baked sweet potato fries |
| soda | sparkling water |
| burger | burger no bun |
| fried chicken | baked chicken |
| mashed potatoes | mashed cauliflower |
| chocolate chip cookies | reduced fat chocolate chip cookies |
I would also suggest that you follow healthy food blogs and sites for additional ideas and suggestions. Very Well Fit has a great article on the best healthy blogs to follow. It’s a great way to discover foods you may enjoy and new ways of preparing meals.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Did you know that alcohol consumption causes the blood vessels to dilate and enhances the redness caused by inflation of the skin? Yes, so that means that your acne or rosacea can possibly look worse after a drink or two. I know, because I’ve heard it too, that red wine is good for you. Red wine contains antioxidants that have beneficial effects.
“Everything in moderation, including moderation.” – Oscar Wilde
Move your body
Heading to the gym is most likely not an option, but there are still things you can do. Exercise helps increase the blood flow and is good for your body and your skin. Do exercises that move every part of your body. Start with facial exercises. Use a jade roller to help de-puff. I put mine in the refrigerator before use for a soothing, yet cooling effect.
Here are some types of exercises you can do at home without equipment:
- Squats
- Walking in place or around the house
- Push ups
- Stretching
- Jumping jacks
- Sit ups
- Dance
My 5 ways to keep your skin feeling refreshed while social distancing is just the beginning of many options available to you. I hope I have provided you with easy to implement ideas that will help make a difference. You may have some suggestions and I would love for you to share them in the comments below.
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I’ve been enjoying the opportunity to let my skin breathe during the day during the current self-isolation. I keep masks on and use a great spritzer for an occasional boost (I have the purple Mario Badescu spray and it’s the BEST!). I had forgotten about the jade facial roller since I’ve been keeping it cool in the refrigerator, but I appreciate this article reminding me that it’s there and that I should use it more often!
Hi Aly, thank for taking the time to read my article. It’s so hard especially since now we’re spending many days at home to remember to take time to care for ourselves. Pull your jade roller out and use it…your skin will thank you.
Hi, I like your article focusing on social distancing and how important it is. I especially like the approach you took by pointing out the positive effects that will come with social distancing and persuading the reader to follow suite. I think that a lot of people are in denial about the whole situation. A lot of people come off to me as they do not think that it wound not happen to them. Or that it isn’t as serious as everyone seems to be acting it is. Great article!
Hi Paul, thank you so much for your comments. I’m glad you liked the article. You’re right, not enough people have been taking this pandemic seriously and as a result, we’re still trying to navigate through. There are many things we can do at home to stay active and work towards moving forward. Take care.
It’s easy to let things go when you’re not leaving the house or looking in the mirror on a daily basis. Thanks for the tips.
You’re welcome Juanita! Thanks for reading the article.
For us this should be the 10 fay and I must tell you it hasn’t bee easy for us all with all the shops closed which make it impossible to get all the skin treatment necessities….I have been looking for a way out and I think this 5ways you have given out I my one hope…thanks for sharing.
Hi Feji ben, thanks for your feedback. Yes, it is a challenge, but it is doable. You just have to look beyond what you don’t have and focus on what you can control. I’m happy to hear that this article gave you a glimpse of hope. Take care.
Hi! I really enjoyed reading your post. And you have some good pointers here. Hydrating our body and face is without discussion one of the most important. But during these days, I have been more relaxed, staying at home, and after a week it has begun to show in my skin. It makes me happy just to see the changes.
Eating better and sleeping better also contribute a lot!
Hi Ann, thanks for taking time out to comment. I’m happy that you enjoyed the article. I’ve spoken to so many people who have gone into relax mode. As a result they hang out in pj’s all day being uninspired. We all have to remind ourselves that at some point things are going to start to get back to what we were once familiar with. In the meantime don’t neglect your skin, your body ,or creativity. I love that you added sleep. I didn’t include that because I spoke to a few people who basically said that’s what they’re doing with their time. Sleep is important, get the needed rest then do something good for yourself.
Lorrie, I love that you explain alternatives for food. I love that you talk about skin as an organ and all the things we can do to look/feel better. I think we always assume this means “products”. I love that you mentioned products to use but so much more. This is insanely educational and jam packed with info. Thanks!