Skin Health During Covid 19

The pandemic has changed the way people think about their skin. When social distancing isn't possible, wearing a mask in public is a necessity to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, notes the CDC but the warmth and humidity caused by wearing a mask is producing numerous skin issues. In this chapter, we'll explore pandemic skin solutions for those issues caused by wearing a mask and we'll discuss the importance of balanced skin pH and how to achieve it.

Show Notes

The pandemic has changed the way people think about their skin. When social distancing isn't possible, wearing a mask in public is a necessity to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, notes the CDC. 

Many people are experiencing a resurgence in breakouts (what’s being called “maskne”), rosacea, and perioral dermatitis (an acne-like rash around the mouth, according to the American Academy of Dermatology [AAD]) as a result of taking this public safety step.

If any of these cases apply to you, you’re not alone. 

The increased warmth and humidity caused by wearing a mask provides an ideal environment for the bacteria that cause acne and other skin issues. 

If mask-wearing is triggering rosacea or perioral dermatitis, talk to your dermatologist. In the meantime, use mild, gentle, natural products designed for sensitive skin immediately after removing your mask and keep your skin moisturized.

Out of balance pH

Because of the pandemic we are washing our hands and face more than ever. How do you protect yourself and maintain healthy skin? Understanding the ingredients in your products is the first step. Harsh soaps and antibacterial products can strip away the skin’s natural oils causing numerous skin issues from acne to psoriasis. Choosing products that are thoughtfully made with proven effective natural ingredients is the first step to healthier skin.

First, let’s look at the skin’s Potential Hydrogen (pH) which refers to the acidity level of substances. So, what does acidity have to do with healthy skin?

It turns out that understanding and maintaining your skin’s pH is important to your overall skin health.

The pH scale ranges from 1 to 14, with 7 considered “neutral.” The lower numbers are acidic, while the upper levels are considered alkaline, or nonacidic.

You might be surprised to learn that a healthy skin pH is more on the acidic side. With more acidity, your skin can combat harmful microbes and damaging free radicals that might increase the aging process.

Still, it can be a bit challenging to level out skin pH. How can you maintain your skin’s acidity levels without causing harm? 

A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science reported that the ideal pH level is just below 5.

How do you know if your skin’s PH is out of balance?

There are in-home test kits, your dermatologist can tell you and you can get an idea of your skin pH level through careful observation. Skin that has a soft texture without dry spots would be considered balanced. Irritation, acne, redness, and dry spots may all be signs of a high skin pH that’s leaning towards a more alkaline profile.

Why choose WOSH? Follow the science

At WOSH we say, “created by nature, back by science”. What does that mean? It means we have created skincare products that are sourced from nature and backed by extensive scientific research. Our key and the most important ingredient is Kisameet Clay which, through years of research, continues to excite the scientific community for its extraordinary healing qualities.

As the world races towards a vaccine for COVID 19, we must be vigilant and choose products that can keep us as safe as possible while supporting good skin health. 

How do you know which products are safe AND effective? 

Follow the science.

We are excited to share the latest research on our exclusive ingredient, Kisameet Clay, published by mBio (American Society of Microbiology):

“Worldwide increases in antibiotic resistance and the dearth of new antibiotics have created a global crisis in the treatment of infectious diseases. These concerns highlight the pressing need for novel antimicrobial agents.  Kisameet clay has strong antibacterial activity against a variety of multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens”.

Microbiome

The skin is a vast living ecosystem home to trillions of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that contribute to our overall health. A healthy microbiome is essential for good health inside and out according to JAX (The Jackson Laboratory) Assistant Professor Julia Oh.

Kisameet Clay, created by nature over 10,000 years ago, is proving to be a remarkable natural wonder whose capabilities continue to astound microbiology researchers. 

Kisameet Clay (the main ingredient in WOSH) supports and nurtures the skin’s microbiome, keeping the skin’s pH levels in balance while providing a safe and effective way to cleanse your skin.

Download the latest WOSH podcast to learn more and stay tuned as we continue to update you on the evolving capabilities of this remarkable mineral used exclusively in the WOSH line of skincare products including the WOSH mineral bar. 

Read the mBIO research about Kisameet Clay’s incredible properties and health benefits here.

What is WOSH. A podcast about Skin Health.?

WOSH is a podcast about skin health featuring the science behind the WOSH Mineral Bar. WOSH harnesses the incredible power of Kisameet Glacial Clay and its surrounding biome of 40+ minerals. First used by Coastal First Nations, Kisameet Clay has been considered a “healing clay” for topical and internal ailments for centuries. Studies on the clay began in the 1940s by MIT, and over six years of extensive research continues at UBC to support the clay’s remarkable healing properties. Each episode explores the natural ingredients and its ability to nurture the skin's microbiome along with its effectiveness on various skin conditions. We will keep you up to date on the latest developments and breakthroughs in skincare and feature expert advice about the best way to maintain optimum skin health.