Chrissy Thomas, RN, BSN, knows all about the rigors of working in health care and the toll that it can take on your body. Thomas, who has worked as a pediatric operating room nurse and as a plastic surgery nurse, now owns a skin care company and has found a way to help nurses, allied health professionals and others to revitalize themselves.

"For nurses and those in health care, we're naturally caregivers, which means that we often put ourselves last," said Thomas, who founded About Face Skin Care in Snellville in 2002. "Because of the demands of our work, we typically don't take the best care of ourselves, but it's the simple things that can help get us through the long hours."

She said that repeated hand-washing can quickly dry out skin and that exposure to fluorescent lights can leave skin with a sallow appearance.

"There's certain evidence that prolonged exposure to fluorescent lights can break down skin cells," Thomas said. "Stress — the kind that health care professionals routinely function under — can also wear you down, not only emotionally but physically as well."

One of the most important things to help maintain good skin care is to moisturize regularly, Thomas said. Using a moisturizer under surgical masks can help reduce irritation.

"Moisturizers can also be applied before putting on surgical gloves," she said. "Gloves can cause dermatitis, because moisture gets trapped against the skin, so a good barrier moisturizer is best."

Talking about her own days as a nurse, Thomas recalled the long hours and fatigue. "Many times the demand of the work leaves little time even for bathroom breaks, but it's important to stay hydrated — for your body's well-being and for the health of your skin."

Sleep, regular exercise, eating right and drinking enough fluids can contribute to better health and improved energy. Periodic professional massages, facials, manicures and pedicures also can provide respite and a time to focus inward.

"The main thing to remember is that, to be a good caregiver, you must first take good care of yourself," she said.