Skincare for Remote Workers: Balancing Screen Time and Skin Health

With the freedom to wear pyjamas all day and ditch the daily commute, working from home certainly has its perks. But let's be honest: the convenience doesn't necessarily translate to glowing skin. For many, hours in front of screens, an unsettled routine, and the temptation to snack unhealthily can wreak havoc on their skin.

Don't worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s your go-to guide for maintaining healthy, radiant skin while embracing the much-loved remote work lifestyle.

Beware of Screen Time

You might be aware that staring at your laptop or smartphone for long periods isn’t great for your eyes, but did you know it could also affect your skin? Blue light emitted from screens can contribute to premature aging and skin damage.

Most modern devices come with an option to activate a blue light filter, which changes the screen to a warmer hue, reducing potential harm. So, that’s one way to reduce your exposure to blue light.

And when it comes to screen breaks, try the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. It's good for your eyes and gives your skin a momentary break.

You can also opt for a sunscreen that also protects against blue light exposure, such as the Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF 30.

Stress Less, Glow More

Work-related stress and skin health connect significantly. Stress triggers the production of cortisol, a hormone that can lead to oily skin and acne.

Try incorporating mindfulness exercises like deep breathing or short meditation into your workday to keep stress levels in check. It’s also a good idea to keep your workspace separate from your relaxation space to help mentally divide work time from personal time, reducing overall stress.

Nutrition: You Are What You Eat

It’s so easy to grab a bag of chips or a sugary snack while working from home, but your skin won't thank you for it if you make it a routine. Foods high in sugar or grease can lead to breakouts and dull skin.

Sometimes, when you think you're hungry, you're actually just thirsty. Keep a water bottle nearby and make it a habit to sip throughout the day to avoid unnecessary snacking. If you are hungry, choose fruits, nuts, or protein bars that your body will love. After all, foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can promote skin health.

Our Essential Skincare Routine for Remote Workers

When planning a skincare routine for your remote work lifestyle, simplify it, but don’t skip. We know that being at home might make it tempting to ditch your skincare routine, especially if you go makeup-free during the day.

However, a simple, effective routine can make all the difference. Be sure to use a gentle cleanser to kickstart your day. Then, apply a vitamin C serum for that antioxidant boost. And when it comes to moisturizing, a light, non-greasy solution works best when you're indoors.

And yes, you still need to wear sunscreen. Even if you're inside, sun rays can still reach you through windows, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

A good cleansing at the end of the day is important to remove any impurities. Then, dab hyaluronic acid or retinol into your complexion for skin repair. Go for a richer night cream to nourish your skin while you sleep. We love the Dermalogica Sound Sleep Cocoon, which contains tamarind seed extract for nourishing comfort for softer, more quenched skin. Meanwhile encapsulated, motion-activated French lavender essential oil works all night to encourage deep, restful sleep for healthier-looking skin by morning.

Depending on your skin type, exfoliate to remove dead skin cells about once a week. You can also use a face mask suitable for your skin type once a week to give your skin that extra TLC.

Physical Exercise for Better Skin

Don’t forget the power of a good workout when you’re working at home and not really moving about that often. Physical exercise increases blood flow, nourishing skin cells and giving you that post-workout glow. A quick 20-minute at-home workout daily can do wonders for both your stress levels and skin.

If you’re unsure where to start, browse on YouTube for 20-minute home workouts or search on Google. And don’t forget to shower and cleanse after exercising to remove any sweat and bacteria, minimizing the risk of breakouts.

Achieving glowing skin while working from home becomes more attainable with just a little more effort. Remember, just because you're working remotely, doesn't mean your skin has to suffer. It’s time to glow through those Zoom calls.

Do you want more skincare advice? Here’s how to prepare your complexion for those big, special events.