Sheffield ICU nurse issues desperate appeal for Lush cream to help sore skin caused by PPE
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Gemma Adcock, 34, who works in intensive care at the Northern General Hospital, says she has dealt with sensitive skin on her face throughout her life, but using the full personal protective equipment (PPE) – which includes a safety mask and face shield – is causing her face to become sore and inflamed.
A key worker, she is on the frontline of the coronavirus outbreak and has to wear PPE for around 10 hours a day and is working over 37 hours a week.
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Hide AdThe Vanishing Cream is the only thing that has helped Gemma’s skin in the past but she has run out and is unable to get more because the Lush stores are closed.
Gemma said: “I’m one of the lucky ones because I haven’t got any pressure damage and where I work they are providing us with barrier creams and padded dressings to try and prevent pressure damage.
“I can only use certain creams and the vanishing cream that I use has worked incredibly well for me – it’s kept my skin hydrated and helped keep it clear. I know that works for me and I can’t get hold of it so it’s trying to find something else that’s been the problem.”
The product is also out of stock online and Gemma has tried to find an alternative which has proved stressful.
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Hide Ad“Ordinarily I might try and use a different cream and if it makes my face inflamed then it’s not a big deal I know I won’t use it anymore and would try something else,” she added.
“But at the minute if my face becomes inflamed then putting the PPE on is just going to make it a lot worse and it’s making all of us break out so everybody’s face is getting very sore. It’s just an extra worry.”
The nurse is now is asking anyone who may have some Lush Vanishing Cream leftover if they don’t mind sending her some.
Anyone who can help should message Gemma on Twitter – @monkeyjellyfish