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Skin that is dry, flaky, or cracked becomes an issue for many of us as we level-up our handwashing game to help save lives and flatten the curve of COVID-19. Not only can these damaged skin conditions be deeply uncomfortable, but they’re much more likely to allow riff-raff pathogens into our bodies. And while slathering on a rich moisturizer can help quicken your skin’s natural healing process, it isn’t always a cure-all… Read on to learn more!

What is Skin Immunity?

Our skin does a lot more than make us look presentable — it’s actually the body’s largest organ! Not only is it an active organ of elimination, but it’s also an active organ of immunity. Just like your personal bodyguard, your skin’s outermost layer is the literal first line of defense against viruses, bacteria, microbes, and toxins in your environment and their ability to enter your body.

Compromised Skin Barrier

Your skin’s protective moisture barrier is made up of lipids (oils) that hold skin cells together, maintain hydration, and protect you from external invaders. If this barrier is damaged, however, by things like consistent alcohol-based hand-sanitizing and overly-drying handwashing, invisible cracks may form in your skin, giving sneaky pathogens an entry point into your body.

Signs of a Compromised Skin Barrier:

• Persistent Dryness
• Flakiness
• Rough to The Touch
• Tightness
• Product Sensitivity
• Itchiness

Healing a Damaged Skin Barrier

While bathing your hands in a rich lotion may seem like a quick fix for your skin’s damaged defense, that isn’t always the case. Chances are likely that something in your day-in & day-out handwashing routine is compromising your skin barrier and once you remove the culprit, your skin can begin to heal.

How to Keep Your Hands Clean While Preserving Your Skin’s Protective Barrier:

• Switch from synthetically fragranced, overly-drying soaps to a gentle cleanser, like the M’lis Wash Herbal Cleanser, that preserves your skin’s protective barrier.
• Apply just enough product to remove pathogens, but avoid thick lathers as they can strip your skin’s natural oils.
• Wash with warm, not hot water.
• Pat hands dry with a towel, don’t rub.
• Apply a high-quality, natural moisturizing cream, like the M’lis Tissue Repair Cream, immediately after your hands dry and throughout the day as needed to naturally repair damaged skin faster.

By making positive changes in your handwashing regimen & using the right high-quality skincare products, you will not only be able to keep your skin calm and smooth but also support what it’s meant to do — avoid any infections from disease-causing agents.