Skin protection is an issue that is often neglected, especially in the workplace. However, healthy skin is not only an aesthetic concern, but also an important aspect of occupational health and safety. This is because an intact skin barrier not only protects against infections, but also helps to limit damage caused by irritating substances and pollutants that certain occupational groups are often exposed to in the workplace. It is therefore crucial to prevent skin problems at this early stage and thus actively ensure the health of your own employees.
Tip 1: Regular, gentle cleansing
One of the most basic measures for skin protection in the workplace is regular removal of soils. It is important to use gentle cleansers that do not dry out or irritate the skin, such as mild soaps or hand cleaners formulated with plant based scrubbers rather than harsh chemicals. Sometimes it is even more advisable to sanitise the skin several times a day instead of constantly washing it. This is gentler on the skin's own protective layer. After cleansing, however, the skin should always be dried thoroughly to avoid a moist environment, as this favours the growth of microorganisms.
Tip 2: Preventive protection against harmful substances
In addition to cleansing, protection against harmful substances also plays an important role in skin health. Depending on the working environment, various measures can be taken to protect the skin from chemicals, oils, solvents or other irritants. These include wearing protective gloves, protective clothing and, if necessary, applying skin protection products such as Azett's barrier cream.
Tip 3: Moisturise the skin
It is also important to ensure that the skin is sufficiently hydrated. Dry skin tends to be more sensitive and prone to irritation. By regularly applying a moisturising skin care product, you can keep the skin supple and strengthen its natural barrier function. Too much contact with water dries out our skin, as absurd as it sounds. The uppermost layers of the skin to become cracked and permeable, which makes it easier for germs to penetrate and can lead to eczema. Therefore: cleanse, dry and moisturise as an unbeatable trio for skin health.
Tip 4: The right diet
A balanced diet not only plays an important role for our immune system, but also for the health of our skin. An adequate supply of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants can help to support the skin from the inside out and make it more resistant to external influences. The food on offer in the canteen can therefore have a major impact on the health of your employees.
Tip 5: Be attentive
Last but not least, it is also important to be aware of warning signs. If the skin is irritated, dry, reddened or itchy, these symptoms should be taken seriously. Early action can help prevent skin problems from worsening and serious illnesses from developing. It is therefore better to make an appointment with a dermatologist if there are long-term problems or the same symptoms keep recurring.
Skin protection in the workplace is an issue that should be given more attention overall. After all, healthy skin is not only important for our well-being, but also for our ability to work and our safety. By taking the right measures, we can help to maintain the health of our skin and at the same time make our contribution to occupational safety.
