Like all of you, we take the risks posed by the COVID-19 virus seriously. We encourage everyone to follow the social distancing and other health guidelines. Together, we will get through this. Be safe, healthy and stay strong

Skin Care While Sheltering

We are here to support you. During the COVID-19 crisis, the community is being asked to limit the spread of the virus by sheltering in place, social distancing and frequently washing their hands. 

Healthy skin care is even more essential during these challenging times.

Helpful tips to maintain healthy skin:

As a result of the numerous daily hand cleansing our skin is being stripped of its natural oils producing dry, irritated, cracked, itchy skin called hand dermatitis.

  1. Wash your hands at least 20 seconds with soap in lukewarm water. Be sure to wash both the front and back of your hands, including your fingertips. If soap not available, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is recommended.  Be aware that sanitizers can produce more dryness and skin irritation.
  1. When drying your hands, pat dry to leave some moisture on them. Apply a ceramide based moisturizer after hand-washing to heal dry, cracked skin and keep it hydrated. Make sure to work it into your fingertips and nails to create a skin protectant barrier.We recommend an excellent product in the office rich with ceramides: “Moisture-Rich Body Creme”.
  1. If you find that your hands are not responding to the above recommendations, please contact our office (415) 381-6661 as you may need additional OTC products or prescription medications.

Other helpful tips

  1. Protecting your complexion. It’s a good idea to maintain your daily skin-care routine even while you’re at home. That means cleansing your face, applying sunscreen and moisturizer.
  1. Zinc, vitamin C and vitamin D. Zinc, vitamin C and vitamin D all can boost your immune system and help protect your skin. Please follow the recommended daily guidelines; more is not always better.

Our own Dr. David Laub shares his expertise on KTVU news on what you can do to relieve itchy, inflamed skin in the wake of increased hand-washing and sanitizer.