Recommended clothing types to protect against volcanic ash

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Dermatology and venereology specialist Dr Arini Astasari Widodo, SM, SpDVE, has offered recommendations on the types of clothing that can protect the skin during the spread of volcanic ash.

“Use clothing that minimises exposed skin surface, such as long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and closed shoes,” Arini told ANTARA in Jakarta on Monday.

Arini, a graduate of Harvard University, said that whilst ash is spreading, it is better to wear covered clothing, especially when cleaning areas heavily coated in ash.

This aligns with the recommendation of the United States Geological Survey (USGS), which has also advised long sleeves and long trousers to reduce skin exposure.

Beyond the skin, she believes the public also needs to protect the eyes and respiratory tract with hats or gloves.

Next, she said the use of sunscreen remains necessary, as clouds or ash in the atmosphere do not mean ultraviolet radiation is entirely absent.

Sunscreen should ideally be applied to clean, dry skin before leaving home, and one should wait until the product forms a proper layer.

She recommended choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30, with a comfortable texture that is not overly sticky for each individual.

“Importantly, do not reapply sunscreen by rubbing it over skin that is already covered in ash, because the ash can scrape against the skin. If the skin has been heavily exposed to ash, it is best to rinse or gently cleanse it first, dry it, and then reapply sunscreen,” Arini said.

In situations of thick ashfall, covered clothing, hats, and reducing outdoor activity actually provide more important protection than continually adding layers of sunscreen.

When ash is heavy, stay indoors as much as possible and keep windows and doors shut.

Special attention should be given to children, the elderly, and people with eczema or very sensitive skin.

If severe redness, swelling, an intense burning sensation, wounds or blisters appear after exposure, or if complaints do not improve after cleansing, one should seek care at a health facility.

“And of course, skin health is only one aspect. Volcanic ash can also irritate the eyes and respiratory tract, so the public should continue to follow official information and government directives,” Arini added.