Avoid direct exposure to dust. Wash skin thoroughly after exposure to dusty conditions. Keep skin hydrated. Use regular sun protection when outdoors. Dust itself can be a mix of particles and irritants, and in some people, repeated exposure can contribute to irritation, itching, blocked pores or worsening of existing skin problems.
My experience is that the biggest mistake is trying to "deep clean" the skin every time it feels dusty. The more you scrub, the dirtier your skin is. In fact, dermatologists recommend mild cleansing, as too much washing and scrubbing can irritate the skin.
Dust effects
As the day progresses, dust can land on your face and combine with sweat, oil, makeup and other particles from the environment.
Depending on your skin and what you are exposed to, you can see:
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Itching or irritation.
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Droughts
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Redness
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Increased sensitivity
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Breakouts/clogged pores
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Aggravation of existing skin disorders
Not every reaction blamed on "dust" is caused by dust alone. Fragrances, chemicals, detergents, allergies, and other elements in your environment can potentially cause contact dermatitis or skin irritation.
Safety precautions
If you frequently drive on dusty roads, work outside or live in a construction zone, physical protection can be beneficial.
Try to:
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Cover exposed flesh where you can.
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Do not touch your face with filthy hands.
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Wash your hands before you touch your face.
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Take off dusty clothes when you come home.
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Always wash your pillowcases and face cloths.
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If you’ve been exposed to a lot of dust, shower.
One rule I live by is to think about how to stop dust getting onto your skin before you think about how to get it off. These are simple things you can do that don’t require expensive skincare: physical barriers, clean hands, and reducing unnecessary touching of the face.
Simple Skin Care Routine
Exposure to dust doesn’t mean you need a 10-step skincare routine.
Often, a simple routine is all that is needed.
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Cleanse gently if necessary.
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Use a moisturizer appropriate for your skin type.
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Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher before heading outside.
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Properly remove makeup and sunscreen.
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Use a mild cleaner.
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Apply lotion.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends gentle cleansing, moisturizing and daily sun protection as the basic components of skin care. It also recommends washing your face just twice a day and after sweating.
I like to keep things simple in my skincare and not add a new product every time I discover a new problem. It can often be more practical to get the consistency right with your cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen than continuously trying new actives.
Errors to avoid
These are frequent mistakes to avoid:
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Scrubbing your face hard.
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Repeatedly washing your face each day
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Hot water
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The use of harsh cleaners just to feel "extra clean"
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Using multiple active ingredients simultaneously.
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Sleeping with heavy makeup or sunscreen.
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You have oily skin, and you skip on moisturizer.
The AAD explicitly recommends using a soft, non-abrasive cleanser, lukewarm water and your fingertips, and not scrubbing with instruments that can irritate your skin.
Another key element is that even oily skin must be properly hydrated. Moisturizer helps to keep water in the skin. There are products to choose from, which are dependent on your own skin type.
When to Ask for Help
If they persist, see a dermatologist or other health care professional.
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Redness
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Severe itchiness
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Oedema
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Sore pimples
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Cracking or flaking
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Blisters
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Recurrent rash
If you notice your symptoms are still there after you’ve been in a certain area, it may be more beneficial to find an irritant or allergen than to continue switching your skin care products.
Frequently asked questions
1. Should I cleanse my face every time I am exposed to dust?
Not always. Overwashing can aggravate your skin. Dermatologists recommend washing two times a day and after profuse sweating.
2. Can dust create pimples?
There are many reasons for acne; however, for some people, dust mixed with oil, sweat and other debris may clog the pores.
3. Does sunscreen protect from dust?
“Dust is not really what sunscreen is for; it’s for UV protection. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ for sun protection.”
4. Does oily skin need moisturizer?
Yes. Use a moisturizer that suits your skin type; for example, if you have a tendency for plugged pores, use a non-comedogenic label.
Must Read: How to get healthy and flawless skin?
