With hourly news updates being posted by official news sources as regards the Los Angeles wildfires which began on Tuesday, it easy to feel despondent over the whole situation. This is especially so if you’re a homeowner who has lost their home and precious memories to the blaze.
While everyone – from the federal/state government, NGOs, volunteers and firefighters – are doing their absolute best to contain and mitigate the displacement of the individuals, let’s all remember that the aftermath of wildfires can be particularly harsh on the skin, with smoke and ash causing irritation, dryness, and other skin issues.
While difficult at this time, maintaining a proper skincare routine can help mitigate these effects and provide some semblance of comfort during challenging times.
In this article, I’ve outlined some practical skincare tips for those affected by wildfires and they are;
—> Gentle Cleansing
1. Choose the Right Cleanser: Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that effectively removes impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Look for products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and cucumber extract.
2. Double Cleansing: If you’ve been exposed to heavy smoke and ash, consider double cleansing. Start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve dirt and pollutants, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining residue.
—> Hydration is Key
1. Moisturize Regularly: Smoke exposure can dehydrate the skin, making it important to keep your skin well-moisturized. Use a rich, hydrating moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to lock in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier.
2. Hydrating Serums: Incorporate hydrating serums into your routine for an extra boost of moisture. Serums with hyaluronic acid or vitamin B5 can help replenish and retain skin hydration.
—> Soothe and Repair
1. Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients: Use products with anti-inflammatory properties to calm irritated skin. Ingredients like niacinamide, green tea extract, and calendula can help reduce redness and inflammation caused by smoke exposure.
2. Repairing Treatments: Look for treatments that promote skin repair and healing. Products containing peptides, antioxidants, and vitamins C and E can aid in skin recovery and protect against further damage.
—> Protect Your Skin
1. Sunscreen: Even if you’re indoors, it’s crucial to protect your skin from UV rays and environmental pollutants. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily. Look for sunscreens with added antioxidants for that boost of extra protection.
2. Barrier Creams: Consider using barrier creams to create an additional protective layer on your skin. These creams are helpful for shielding your skin from pollutants and prevents moisture loss.
Additional Tips
1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining healthy skin.
2. Avoid Harsh Products: Steer clear of products with harsh chemicals, fragrances, and alcohol, as they can further irritate your skin. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free formulations.
3. Cool Compresses: If your skin feels particularly irritated, use cool compresses to soothe and calm the affected areas. Simply soak a clean cloth in cold water and apply it to your skin for a few minutes.
4. Consult a Dermatologist: If you experience severe skin issues or persistent irritation, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment options.
The Skincare Brands Actively Supporting the Wildfire Survivors
1. Glow Recipe: This widely-used skincare brand has donated $100,000 worth of essential skincare products, including cleansers, SPF, and treatments, to assist those in need. Their efforts aim to provide immediate relief and support to wildfire victims.
2. Benefit Cosmetics: Benefit Cosmetics is donating to the American Red Cross to support those affected by the wildfires.
3. Tower 28: Founded by Amy Liu, Tower 28 has organized a donation drive where people can drop off hygiene and beauty products, clothing, and other essentials.
4. Amika: This hair-care brand is teaming up with other brands to send care packages to those in need. They have also donated to the CA (California) Fire Foundation and are actively supporting first responders and affected individuals.
5. BK Beauty: From January 9 to 11, BK Beauty has donated 100% of net proceeds from online sales to the California Community Foundation to support those affected by the Los Angeles fires.
