Many people are finding themselves battling their way to recovery after contracting Covid-19. Alongside other ongoing symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and brain fog (to name only a few) Covid has also seen people suffering from uncomfortable and unsightly skin conditions, as well as hair loss.
According to dermatologist Dr. S’lindile Ndwalane from The Specialist Laser and Cosmetic Institute (SCIN), a unique and world-class medical aesthetic and cosmetic institute with branches in Johannesburg and Cape Town, Covid-19 is associated with skin problems such as red, itchy rashes on the body; chilblains on toes and fingers; hives; skin redness; and chickenpox like lesions. Sufferers of eczema and psoriasis have seen their conditions worsen due to Covid, and others are experiencing skin problems due to the use of masks and sanitisers.
Dr. Sli offers advice on some post-Covid aesthetic treatments that will help on the road to recovery, and looking and feeling better.
“To start I would highly recommend that patients opt for IV vitamin drip therapy. Intravenous vitamin drips deliver essential vitamins and antioxidants directly into the bloodstream, for maximum absorption,” explains Dr. Sli. “IV infusions can be used to boost the immune system and maintain optimum health, and vitality. It is a powerful ally to support post-Covid recovery as well as the treatment of a variety of acute illnesses and chronic conditions. Some of the key benefits include increased energy levels, improved health and immunity, enhanced mood, reduced stress, boosted hydration and muscle recovery, and enhanced skin health and brightening.”
Another good treatment to consider to help your skin return to optimal health after Covid is PRP skin regeneration therapy. According to Dr. Sli, PRP skin regeneration therapy, also known as the vampire facial, is a procedure that uses a patient’s own blood to trick the body into healing and repair. The blood is extracted and undergoes a spinning process to separate the plasma, which is injected back into a patient’s skin. PRP skin regeneration therapy is also a good treatment for people experiencing hair loss after Covid.
“PRP skin regeneration therapy assists with the regeneration and restoration of the hair follicles, enabling new, healthy hair to start emerging on the scalp. The procedure stimulates the formation of new healthy blood vessels which supply the hair follicles and sustain hair growth and hair regeneration,” says Dr. Sli.
“The increase in blood flow brings essential nutrients into the follicle while taking away harmful waste products and increases cellular metabolism and cellular activity. The hair follicle, therefore, has the necessary building blocks and energy to transform from a weakened follicle to one that is healthy and capable of producing beautiful, thick healthy hair.”
Micro-needling is another recommended option to assist your skin to regenerate and has also shown benefits in hair regeneration.
“DermaPen is a skin micro-needling treatment with minimum downtime which promotes scarless healing and natural collagen production in the skin to improve the appearance of scars, acne scarring, stretch marks, wrinkles, pigmentation and rejuvenate the skin,” says Dr. Sli. “A dermapen causes the stimulation of healthy collagen production through controlled damage to the skin, which prompts it to repair itself.”
According to Dr. Sli, a facial is another easy and no-invasive way to help rejuvenate your skin to restore the health and glow that Covid took away. In addition to a facial being a relaxing and pampering experience, your skin will receive added hydration and the nourishing treatment it deserves. During a facial your skin is cleansed, exfoliated and any impurities will be extracted, leaving you with a radiant, healthy glow.
“Performed in a physician’s office, medical facials cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and hydrate skin using a combination of medical-grade products and tools. Suitable for a variety of skin types, these highly-customizable treatments improve the appearance of several skin concerns including many brought about through the Covid virus and its effects on the body.”
“Other options for hair loss include steroid injections into the scalp, the use of topical medication called Minoxidil, as well as the use of specialised treatment shampoos and conditioners.”
Although not a symptom of Covid-19 infection, wearing a mask has seen many people develop a condition called “maskne” which is a type of acne caused by constant friction from the face mask. The friction from the mask as well as humidity and sweating contribute to clogging of pores and inflammation – leading to pimples.
Dr. Sli advises that maskne sufferers wash their face twice daily with a gentle fragrance-free cleanser, or a medicated cleanser – but avoid harsh granular exfoliators as these can create or worsen irritation. “Use a lightweight moisturiser, include Hyaluronic Acid in your skincare regimen, start using skincare products with vitamin C during the day, and make sure your night cream has Retinol (vitamin A) in it. Also, wash and/or change your mask every day.”
“There are also general measures that can be taken to help you recover faster from Covid. Taking vitamin C, zinc, as well as vitamin D has been shown to help. If you are suffering from hair loss then take calcium, magnesium, and an iron supplement. Get more rest, eat healthily, and try to get some exercise every day – all of these actions will help you and your skin to recover faster from Covid-19.”
