February is the coldest month of the year. It feels like there are still a few days until spring arrives, but the calendar marks the beginning of spring on February 4th. In the second half of February, the plum buds begin to swell, and rape blossoms begin to bloom in some areas, and you will begin to feel spring approaching little by little.
February, when the "fluctuations" between mid-winter and spring cross paths, can be a harsh season for the skin. Why not understand these "fluctuations" and start taking skin care measures?
February is still cold, but the season is changing towards spring.
[1] Weather characteristics of February
Looking back at the weather data for Tokyo in 2022, we can see how harsh the weather and climate in February was for the skin.
①Average temperature is mid-winter
The average temperature was 5.2°C, and winter conditions remained the same as in January.
② Large temperature differences
The temperature difference in February was much larger than in January and December. This was due to the temperature rising in the latter half of February as we approached spring, but the temperature difference caused further stress on skin already damaged by winter.
③Ultra-dry condition
The average humidity was as low as in January, and the minimum humidity was the lowest for the year, making the conditions extremely dry and alarming.
④The hours of sunlight are long
Tokyo is often blessed with relatively good weather in the winter, so the hours of sunlight tend to be long even in February. However, this also means that the skin is continuously exposed to sunlight stress. Weather data also shows that sun care, including protection from ultraviolet rays, is necessary all year round, regardless of the season.
[2] Pollen began to fly in February, and the amount is expected to be high this year
In addition to the harsh weather and climate, cedar pollen will begin to spread in February. According to the Japan Weather Association, cedar pollen is expected to begin spreading in various areas starting in February, except in parts of Hokkaido and the Tohoku region.
The amount of cedar pollen released into the air depends on the weather conditions of the previous summer. When temperatures are high, there is plenty of sunshine, and there is little rain, many flower buds form, and the amount of pollen released the following spring is said to be high. The previous year, there was particularly little rain in June during the rainy season, which created favorable conditions for the formation of flower buds.
Given last year's phenomenon, this year's pollen count is expected to be greater than last year from Kyushu to Tohoku, with particularly large amounts flying around in Shikoku, Kinki, Tokai, and Kanto Koshin.
For people with hay fever and those without, pollen is a foreign substance to the skin and can cause skin stress and skin problems. Masks can help reduce pollen stress, but they don't provide complete protection, so it's essential to take measures against hay fever!
Mask life and skin care
Regarding the status of the new coronavirus under the Infectious Diseases Act, it was decided that on May 8th, after the Golden Week holidays, it would be downgraded to "Class 5," the same as seasonal influenza. No one has ever had to wear a mask for such a long period of time, three years, so let's take a look at skin problems and skin care that can come with wearing a mask!
[1] The two main causes of skin irritation caused by masks are "physical friction" and "steaminess."
Not only does physical friction irritate the skin, but it also causes sweat and sebum dirt to accumulate inside the mask, creating an environment where bacteria can easily grow. It also makes acne and pimples more likely to occur, and can induce contact dermatitis due to friction. This leads to sensitive skin and a weakening of the skin's barrier function.
[2] Skin care to prevent skin problems caused by masks
① Maintain a hygienic environment with mask inner sheets
We recommend using a mask inner sheet, not only to reduce friction caused by the mask, but also to keep the inside of the mask hygienic. Choose a product made of materials such as cotton or silk that are gentle on the skin.
② Finishing touch for moisturizing and strengthening barrier function
When you remove the mask, your skin will become very dry. Be sure to finish with a gel or cream to keep your skin moisturized and improve its barrier function.
3. Wipe off sweat and dirt frequently
As the temperature rises towards spring, you may find yourself sweating inside your mask. Sweat can mix with sebum and cause skin irritation, so be sure to wipe it off frequently. Also, if your mask becomes damp with sweat, be sure to replace it with a new one.
Even if you are careful about your skin care while wearing a mask, if you experience skin irritation (symptoms such as stinging, redness, acne, or breakouts), take a break from skin care and makeup and see a dermatologist as soon as possible to receive treatment.
"Spring is just around the corner. February is a month when the seasons change, so take care to avoid skin care changes." What do you think?
Once the cold season is over, the long-awaited warm season will arrive. You will feel excited, but don't forget that this is also a season of fluctuation. Let's take good care of our skin.
The next topic will be "Skin care for the advancing spring."
