Is your skin suffering while you are working?

Posted by Cosmetia 02/08/2021
Is Your Skin Suffering While You Are Working?
Factors that impact your skin’s health and how to deal with them.
 
 
 
 
The skin - the largest organ of the body - forms the front line of our organism’s protection and plays an important role in the sense of touch. It is our mirror for every physical or mental condition.
 
Every day, it is affected by external factors and modern lifestyle, leading to the formation of more intense, premature wrinkles, fine lines and spots. It can become rough with a dull appearance, feel irritated, dry and dehydrated or become prone to the appearance of acne.
 
The conditions at your workplace and your habits while you are working can also be harmful for your health and the appearance of your skin. But let’s take a look at those conditions and habits and how you can deal with them.
 
 
1. Air conditioning
Air conditioners make the air dry and reduce the humidity in the room, whether they are set on cooling or heating. This lack of humidity affects the skin’s water content, reduces its elasticity and causes dryness, redness and even cracks. Make sure to drink plenty of water in order to keep your skin hydrated from within. Additionally, apply a moisturising cream to your skin on a daily basis.
 
2. Caffeine
Another factor that is drying out your skin is the excessive consumption of caffeine, as it is a diuretic and dehydrates the entire body. You might feel that you need the extra energy boost from several cups of coffee to cope with your daily obligations. However it would be better if you replaced some with fresh juices or water. Add a few mint leafs or lemon slices to your water to give it an interesting taste that will make you feel refreshed.
 
3. Bacteria
Surfaces at your workplace, like office desks, printers, phones, door knobs and even walls are sources of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites that can cause redness, irritation and acne to the skin. Therefore, avoid touching your face while working, as you might transfer bacteria, especially if you haven’t washed your hands. You can carry disinfectant wipes with you to clean your keyboard, phone, working surface or even the commonly used office equipment regularly.
 
4. Pollutants
In closed office spaces, there is an accumulation of dust that blocks the skin’s pores making it lose its firmness and brightness, as well as toxic substances that are responsible for the appearance of signs of premature skin aging, such as wrinkles and spots. Therefore, it is very important to renew the office air at regular intervals. Indoor plants can also help clean the atmosphere. Finally, clean your face thoroughly when your return home, in order to remove any dirt particles.
 
5. Electronic devices
Electronic devices like computer screens, tablets and smartphones are sources of blue light which is responsible for the formation of free radicals and digital skin aging. In order to avoid the signs of aging caused by technology, use special screen filters and try to avoid exposing yourself to many electronic devices at once, keep a safety distance from your screen, enrich your diet with fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, tomatoes, watermelons and spinach, which are full of antioxidants and carotenoids, and take care of your skin with special products that filter blue light.
 
6. Fast food
If you are used to ordering fast food during your lunch break, your skin’s oiliness may increase and acne, red spots and premature wrinkles may appear. Processed carbohydrates, fats and fried food can cause inflammation in the body which is also shows on your skin. Therefore, it is preferable to prepare a healthy meal in the evening and take it with you to the office the next day. Remember to also pack a fruit and some nuts as a snack between meals.
 
7. Stress
We have all experienced spiking stress levels at work. However, if this is a regular condition, stress signs appear in the entire body and also on the skin, as it triggers cortisone release that can cause oiliness and acne, destroy collagen and elastin reserves and consequently lead to wrinkles. Find techniques that will help you relax during the day. Take short breaks and focus your thoughts on something other than work. You can also get out of your office into the fresh air. In addition, make sure to maintain good relationships with your colleagues. A pleasant conversation with them will help you relax and get rid of tension. If necessary, ask for their help to cope with a challenging task. Finally, use essential oils like lavender, chamomile, jasmine or bergamot to give your workplace a pleasant scent that will calm your senses and relieve anxiety.
 
 
There are many ways in which you can take care of your skin while working and by adopting healthy habits you can make sure it stays healthy, youthful and radiant.
 
 
 
 
Christina Sakellariou, Chemist/Cosmetologist - HM Manager at Cosmetia
 
 
The article has also been published on Thrive Global Greece: https://www.thriveglobal.gr/arthra/mipos-to-derma-soy-talaiporeitai-eno-esy-doyleyeis/