Due to the outbreak of COVID-19, we have increased the frequency of sanitizing and handwashing. This new practice of religiously washing our hands means lesser chances of getting affected by the novel coronavirus. But, on the other hand, it makes the skin dry and the natural oils in our skin are stripped off. Alcohol-based sanitizers also have the same effect on our hands.

Here are a few tips from Dr. Nivedita Dadu that can help in preventing excessive dryness of the hands while continuing to wash them frequently.

• We should be using warm water and a mild hand wash. Don't use harsh soap or handwash as it strips the protein from the epidermis of the skin leaving it crusty, dry, itchy.
• Remember washing hands for a minimum of 20 seconds or apply an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% of alcohol content. Then dry the hands & use a good oil-based moisturizer.

A change in daily routine, diet, and air can result in skin breakouts & dryness. Here's what one can do to maintain skin & overall health while practicing social distancing.

1. Stay Hydrated
Two liters of water a day is mandatory, which means glowing skin with good health.

2. Eat Healthy
With restaurants closed one can utilize this opportunity to develop healthy habits like eating home-cooked food only. Common ingredients in our kitchens like lemon, honey, ginger, garlic, turmeric, dry fruits, and pulses can be added to our daily meals. Do not forget to consume probiotics such as plain curd.

3. Get Enough Sleep
As we sleep, the body goes into a regenerative and constructive mode, where it also makes collagen. Adults need eight hours of beauty sleep every night.

4. Boosting the Immune System
All the above-mentioned tips can help us to keep our system healthy and support optimal immune function. Apart from which immunity can be further boosted by following these suggestions:

• Avoid smoking & drinking alcohol.
• Soak in the sun to get enough Vitamin-D.
• Exercise and meditate even if it is for 10-15 minutes daily. This helps to manage stress as well as relax our body and mind.
• Practice hygiene i.e. keeping our surroundings and the body clean.

It is a difficult time but we all know that doctors around the globe are working day and night to fight this calamity. We should do our bit by self-isolating. While being at home, this time can be better utilized to work on ourselves. So, once this is over we can come out as a better version of ourselves - physically, mentally & emotionally.

Last but definitely not least, let's not forget to enjoy this time with our family and laugh together. This will boost a positive attitude and give us memories to cherish for a lifetime. Let's look at the positive side because 'every cloud has a silver lining'.

Stay Healthy, Stay Safe!