Jakarta (ANTARA) - Skin and venereology specialist Dr.\u00a0Arini Astasari\nWidodo, SM, SpDVE, has explained that when volcanic ash settles on the\nskin, it can cause dryness, a stinging or burning sensation, itching,\nand redness or irritant dermatitis.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn most people, brief contact with ash does not cause serious skin\nproblems,\u201d Arini said when contacted by ANTARA in Jakarta on Monday.<\/p>\n
A member of the Indonesian Society of Dermatology, Venereology and\nAesthetics (Perdoski), she noted that people who already have sensitive\nskin, atopic dermatitis or eczema, rosacea, or a compromised skin\nbarrier \u2014 for instance after laser treatment or peeling \u2014 need to be\nmore careful, as their skin is more prone to irritation.<\/p>\n
\u201cAsh particles can also be abrasive. That is why one should avoid\nrubbing or wiping ash that is still dry on the surface of the skin, as\nthe friction can actually increase irritation,\u201d said the Harvard\nUniversity graduate.<\/p>\n
If possible, first remove clothing that has been heavily exposed to\nash. Rinse the skin with clean running water so that the particles are\nlifted off without much friction.<\/p>\n
She also recommended bathing with cool or lukewarm water and a gentle\ncleanser, and avoiding scrubs, rough sponges, or rubbing the skin too\nhard.<\/p>\n
If the face becomes irritated, it is advisable to temporarily reduce\nthe use of active ingredients that could make the skin even more\nsensitive, such as retinoids, AHA\/BHA, peels or scrubs, until the skin\ncalms down.<\/p>\n
Arini further stressed that when it comes to prevention, physical\nprotection is more important than medication. People can use a simple\nmoisturiser, free of fragrance, that supports the skin barrier \u2014 for\nexample, one containing ceramides, glycerin or other humectants and\nemollients.<\/p>\n
She also noted that the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau in the waters\nof the Sunda Strait, and the spread of its volcanic ash, should be\nheeded. The public has been urged not to panic, although in terms of\nskin health, volcanic ash is different from ordinary everyday dust.<\/p>\n
Arini explained that volcanic ash consists of very fine rock and\nmineral particles, some of which have abrasive surfaces, and fresh ash\ncan also carry acidic components.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat is why the most important principle is to reduce direct contact\nwith ash, especially when ash concentrations in the air are high. The\nimpact on the respiratory tract and eyes is generally the main concern,\nbut the skin can also become irritated,\u201d she added.<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/effects-of-volcanic-ash-on-the-skins-surface-1788762402", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }