The holidays are in full swing. The decorations are up, carols are playing, and presents are making their transition from shopping carts to wrapping paper. As we engage in these typical end-of-year festivities, this year feels anything but traditional.
As the pandemic continues to interrupt daily life, citizens across the nation are trying to find the delicate balance between merry and safe. This is particularly true as many states are experiencing incredible surges in COVID cases and the resulting hospitalizations, many of which correlate with the Thanksgiving gathering that took place less than a month ago.
As of mid-December, fears of a holiday-related COVID spike seem to, unfortunately, be proving true. According to data released by John Hopkins University, COVID case numbers have broken daily records at least four times in the weeks that followed Thanksgiving, with many news and health organizations reporting a full 20% increase in COVID cases.
Although things may seem bleak, news of vaccine distribution plans put a light at the end of the tunnel. Until then, however, we still need to remain cautious, especially during the holidays.
Here are a few ways you can stay healthy and make this holiday shine with the help of a little silver.
1. Make Merry with Masks
Even if small, Holiday physical gatherings are prime events were singing, laughing, talking, and maybe even the occasional yelling. This holiday, those traditional sounds are found on the CDC’s naughty list—at least when it comes to spreading the coronavirus.
According to the CDC, some carefully constructed multi-layer cloth masks can block up to 80% of all droplets and up to 70% of fine droplets and particles. Any mask is better than no mask, and not all masks provide the same level of protection.
Whether you’re spending time indoors with family, doing some last-minute shopping, or gathering outside, a mask is a must, in our opinion. N95s for more intense coverage are advocated; we recommend one of our silver masks social distancing occasions. Silver’s antimicrobial properties can help inhibit and stymie bacteria’s growth—a win-win for mask wearers and those around them. Many styles are highly breathable as well, making long term wear more comfortable.
2. Say “No” to Mistletoe. Say “Yes” to Mask Mists
Already happy with your cloth and disposable mask? Even if you’re not in the market for new masks this season, you can still benefit from the protective properties of silver. Our new Silver Mask Mist is a great way to keep your mask germ and bacteria-free while soothing your skin, particularly if your suffering from 2020’s latest skin malady: maskne.
Mask Mist isn’t just for keeping your mask clean, however. Among the several blends available, you’ll find Just Breath, which fosters a relaxing state of mind, and Immune Boost, which will keep your immune system primed and ready. New for the holidays are yummy, yet as efficacious, custom formulas including Lemon Drop, Wintergreen, Apple Cider, and Hot Cocoa.
3. Get in the Spirit with Silver Spritz
Covid transmission primarily takes place from person to person, and that doesn’t mean it’s safe to neglect surfaces inside your home or out in public, especially when it comes to high-touch ones like doorknobs, faucets, and shopping cart handles.
If you're tempted to pick up a bottle of one of the many name-brand chemical disinfectants on the market, think again. They may kill germs, but they can also take a toll on your body. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has found that the use of many popular disinfectant cleaners can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even developmental and reproductive health concerns.
TRU47’s Silver Spritz uses the natural powers of silver and essential oils to effectively inhibit the growth of germs and bacteria, all while not only being safe enough to use anywhere on your skin as well, but also on those dirty high-touch surfaces. That makes the Silver Spritz line an ideal disinfecting solution to consider for use at home or on the go. Small Bottle options make them easier to tock in a purse, store in a backpack or briefcase…even pant pockets.
4. Keep Skin Calm and Bright
Cold, dry weather, increased mask use, harsh sanitizers, too many holiday sweets or spirits, and other common winter irritants can leave your skin feeling less than merry. Painful, red, or infected skin isn’t fun, and you can reduce or stop seasonal skin problems before they start with the right solutions.
Boost your immunity and calm skin with our Immunity Blend facial toner or sanitize and soothe your skin with our Silver Soap and Silver Creme. Whatever product you choose, your skin will thank you. These skin care products also make the perfect stocking stuffers for friends and family.
5. Swap Out Silver Bells for Silver Cloths
Whether you’re swapping gifts, doing some holiday travel, or counting down to midnight with a small group, practicing good hygiene is essential. Soap and water aren’t always available, and hand sanitizers can be a real hazard to your skin. So, what other options do you have?
Our Stellarcleenz lines feature mitts, scarves, handle cover wraps, and a multi-use square cloth, each consisting of 99.99% pure silver ionically plated to a very fine ripstop nylon. This is different and superior to nanotechnology applications, which merely coat fibers, usually polyester.
These products offer a chemical-free solution that has been proven more effective than gels, sprays, and wipes. They are as portable as they are discrete. The Stellarcleenz 99.99% pure silver scarves also offer some fashionable flare. Each product is lab tested for over 10,000 wipes, making them as economical as they are effective; and highly durable, which also is environmentally responsible.
The holidays may look a little different this year, and that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the season. With the right precautions and some carefully curated silver products, you can still enjoy a safe, happy, and healthy holiday and welcome in the new year. We are sending those wishes on to you!