Your Skin Is Your Shield

Your skin is your body’s largest organ and first line of defense. It protects you from environmental stressors like pollutants, germs, and UV rays. Your skin is especially important for students who are out and about all day juggling classes across campus, playing sports in the South Florida sun, and working out or swimming at Campus Recreation.

Stressors can take a toll and lead to dry skin that can flake, itch, crack, and even bleed. If you find that your skin shows irritation, the following recommendations can help relieve your stressed-out skin:

• Keep baths and showers short. Use warm, not hot water, and gently pat the skin dry. A void using wash cloths that could further irritate your skin.
• Avoid Harsh Soaps like Irish Springs and Dial and try more gentle soaps like Dove, Cetaphil, Cerave, Vanicream.
• Avoid Fragrance! Read ingredients on skin care products. Deodorant soaps, alcohol-based toners, moisturizers, and products that contain fragrance can irritate dry, sensitive skin.
• Apply moisturizer after getting out of the bath or shower. Creams tend to be more effective than lotions.
• Read ingredients on skin care products. Deodorant soaps, alcohol-based toners, and products that contain fragrance can irritate dry, sensitive skin.
• Wear soft fabrics that breathe, such as 100% cotton. If you want to wear wool and other rough fabrics, wear a soft fabric underneath.
• Don't skimp on hand washing, which can remove harmful bacteria and viruses. If you need to wash your hands frequently, hand sanitizers are a good alternative.
• Apply hand cream after each hand washing. If more relief is needed, dab petroleum jelly on your hands before bed. If your hands are frequently immersed in water, wear waterproof gloves to help protect them.
• Use fragrance-free and hypo-allergenic laundry detergents. Avoid fabric softeners or dryer sheets.

According to Dr. Allie Schwartz, a provider at Florida Atlantic’s Student Health Services Clinic, “These simple steps can help you keep your skin strong and healthy. But sometimes your skin condition may require more. One of our providers can exam your skin and if needed prescribe something for you and even refer you to a dermatologist if appropriate.”

If you’ve tried the suggestions in this article and are still experiencing skin irritation, schedule an appointment at your Student Health Clinic. One of our providers can help! To schedule an appointment, visit one of our clinic locations:

Boca Raton Clinic 561-297-3512

2nd Floor Across from the Food Court, SS-8W, Room 240

 

Davie Clinic 954-236-1556

Student Union, SD Room 206

 

Jupiter Campus 561-799-8678

Student Resources Building, SR Room 106