More time indoors has taken a huge toll on our skin

Thanks to lockdowns and the need to potentially self isolate or quarantine, most Aussies have been spending a lot more time indoors over the past year.

And as it turns out, that increased time within our four walls has actually taken a toll on our skin, with the Aussie Skin Sensitivity SENSEus by Cetaphil revealing just how widespread the issue of "Lockdown skin" is, with people reporting dry, acne prone, and sensitive skin throughout the pandemic.

Thanks to lockdowns and social restrictions 81 per cent of Aussies think their skin looks unhealthy, largely due to stress (45%) and bad diet (42%).

There has also been a rise in ‘skineglect’, with 2 in 5 Aussies admitting they've been less motivated to follow their standard skincare routine throughout lockdowns.

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The report also revealed that 68 per cent of Aussies are currently battling at least one skin condition, the most common being dryness (55 per cent).

Impact of returning to the office on your skin

As Aussies across the country now start to ease out of lockdown, many will kickstart their commute and return to the office. But what affect will this return have on our skin?

With air-conditioned office spaces, it's not surprise that 2 in 5 Aussies (39 per cent) believe dry air and air-conditioning exposure has the greatest influence on their skin.

Air-con can lead to severe dryness, causing red flare-ups and sore skin.

'Maskne' is another now common term that refers to acne caused by wearing face masks. The practice can also result in spots, sensitive and dry skin, so it's important to regularly wash your mask, let your skin breathe and frequently wash and moisturise your skin.

But what else can be done to improve our post-lockdown skin?

Dr Leona Yip, dermatologist and Fellow of The Australasian College of Dermatologists, shares with Yahoo Lifestyle her top 5 tips for defending your skin against common sensitivities.

Skin problem: Weakened Skin Moisture Barrier

“It’s important we treat the delicate skin on our faces with care. Rather than weakening your skin’s moisture barrier with harsh ingredients, strengthen it with the nourishing properties of hyaluronic acid," Dr Yip says.

“Investing in your skin health is not about spending lots of money, it’s more important to choose the products that are right for you and for your individual skin sensitivities.”

Skin problem: Dryness

“The cause of dry skin can be lack of moisture in your skin or simply the climate you live in, especially cooler, drier weather. Combat dehydrated skin with a nourishing moisturiser.”

Skin problem: Roughness

“Rough, textured skin can be caused by dehydration of your skin. Eliminate roughness by gently exfoliating then replenishing your skin with a hydrating moisturiser to eradicate dryness altogether.”

Skin problem: Irritation

“Do you ever experience itchy, inflamed skin? Help prevent this by using skincare products that are sensitive-skin friendly. You can also help prevent further irritation by avoiding overly hot showers and being sun safe.”

Skin problem: Tightness

“Distressed, sensitive skin can feel taut and tight. Reduce the feeling of discomfort by nourishing your skin with a gentle body wash and moisturiser”.

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