It’s been over a year since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. We are stuck at home due to Covid imposed lockdown and barely go out. A large number of population is working from home and it is kind of a benefit. For men, working at home and not getting out that much during the pandemic seems like the perfect time to grow out a beard. Why bother shaving if you don’t have to?
However, according to some information, this may be harmful as some experts say your beard can increase the risk of coronavirus infection. Is it a fact or just a rumor? Let’s find out.
According to Dr. Anthony M. Rossi, a member of the American Academy of Dermatology said, “If you have a bushy beard that goes in the area where a mask covers and over your jawline and onto your neck, it can create an improper seal with the mask. Thus, allowing particles and airflow to go between you and the mask.”
This means when you breathe, speak or cough, etc the droplets may not be able to be contained within your mask and can escape the edges of the mask. Similarly, if you communicate with someone who has contracted the virus, the virus can enter through the edges of your mask.
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Looks like in a pandemic too, you need to trim your bushy beard and groom yourselves. But, what if you don’t want to shave?
Dr. Adam Friedman, a dermatologist and member of the American Academy of Dermatology said that in these cases double masking can potentially help since it creates a tighter fit. But double masking too can lead to some problems like pressure or frictional irritant contact rashes behind the ear.
“In the hospital setting, where a fit-tested N95 mask is required, those with thick beards can use what’s called a PAPR ( powered air-purifying respirator), which is almost like a helmet that goes over your head/face,” said Friedman.
Dr. Rossi suggests that you can also pinch the nose bite of your mask to ensure there’s a good seal around your nose. “Sometimes the use of tape around the nose area will help create a tighter seal, or even tape under the jawline will help create a tighter seal, especially if you’re in a high-risk area such as the hospital,” he added.
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For those considering to trim beard, follow these ways to groom your facial hair.
Beard styling
Beard trimmer provides precision and salon-like trim and style in a few simple steps that are easy to follow. To maintain a clean beard, use a product that gives facial hair neat and sharp cuts. Thus, use trimmers that come with a set of clippers or multiple settings.
Before trimming decide the shape of your beard to suit your face. For example, for a rounder face keep a fuller beard while for a slimmer look, go for a more streamlined and refined beard.
Face Cleansing at home
In summer, bacteria tend to grow on the face due to sweating. Combining it with dirt, your skin can end up in breakouts and pimples. To prevent these wash your face twice a day using a facewash. Facial tools like a facial cleanser can be used to remove impurities from your skin.
Hair Care
Due to covid imposed lockdowns, you cannot go to a salon. No worries, just start your hair treatment at home. For spa, oil your hair first and let it stay for 20 minutes. Then take a towel and dip it in hot water, after that wrap the towel around your hair so that steam helps the oil penetration deeper inside your scalp. Then wash your hair with a good quality shampoo and conditioner.