As COVID-19 confirmed cases surge dramatically, particularly in the greater Seoul metropolitan area, there is a growing atmosphere of restraint around year-end gatherings. With an explosive increase in confirmed cases anticipated around Christmas, many people are canceling not only large year-end parties but also small dining get-togethers, instead planning to stay home for family gatherings or solo home parties.

As a result, most reservation bookings at hotels and large restaurants have been canceled, while sales of Christmas decorations and home party supplies are on the rise. In fact, one online shopping mall reported a roughly 11% increase in party supply sales compared to the previous year, and wine sales — an indicator of home party demand — reportedly increased by more than 50% compared to the same period last year.

Additionally, it is said that more people are spending their time at home purchasing hobby kits such as handicrafts and painting sets for leisure, or buying exercise equipment and home care products for self-management. In particular, after wearing masks all year long, more people are seeking various treatments to restore tired and damaged skin and to achieve younger, more resilient skin before turning another year older.

To care for skin that has suffered from various breakouts due to the non-ventilated environment caused by prolonged mask wear, it is best to minimize skin irritation as much as possible. Wearing a mask for extended periods raises the humidity and temperature inside the mask and creates areas of repeated contact, which can lead to various skin troubles. To alleviate these skin issues, it is important to maintain skin cleanliness through thorough cleansing.

Since an imbalance in the skin's oil and moisture levels can worsen breakouts, it is important to apply moisturizer generously after cleansing to prevent moisture deficiency. Those with oily skin may be reluctant to use moisturizer or may apply too little out of concern about excess sebum causing breakouts; however, rather than reducing moisturizer use, choosing a gel-type moisturizer with a lighter, less oily texture can be a good option.

For healthy and resilient skin, it is just as important to pay attention to your surrounding environment as it is to use the right skincare products directly on your skin. During winter, maintaining appropriate indoor humidity levels is essential, and direct exposure to the airflow or heat from heating devices such as radiators should be avoided. It is also important to stay well hydrated to prevent moisture loss within the body, and caffeine intake should be kept to a moderate amount, as it promotes fluid excretion and can interfere with quality sleep.

If home care alone is not sufficient, opting for a dermatological procedure may be a good choice. Sculptra is a treatment that injects PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid), an ingredient effective in collagen regeneration, to naturally restore volume while enhancing skin elasticity. Generally, improvements in volume and elasticity can be felt around 4 weeks after the procedure, with effects reaching their peak at approximately 6 months. The results last for about 2 years, which is relatively long, and 2 to 3 sessions are recommended for optimal results. The efficacy of Sculptra may vary depending on the PLLA concentration and the technique used. Therefore, for safe and satisfying outcomes, it is important to ensure that an authentic product in the correct dosage is used, and to choose a clinic with extensive clinical experience in performing Sculptra treatments.

Advice provided by: Dr. Lee Won-shin, Director of Wells Dermatology Clinic

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