Does Wearing a Mask Affect Your Skin?

Masks are effective because it protects you from Covid-19. For some people, this protective measure can result in skin irritation. It can be a real problem, for example, healthcare workers who wear face masks all the time. One primary reason is that facial covering does not allow airflow to the face- when you breathe, moisture accumulates and becomes trapped on the front. The dark, warm environment beneath the mask can facilitate numerous skin problems.

At times mask and covering can irritate the skin by simply rubbing against it or exposing it to allergens. Wearing a mask can affect your skin in the following ways;

 

Dry, itchy skin

Wearing a facial covering for an extended period may cause the skin to become itchy and peel. If the mask is made out of fabric like cotton, it will absorb the natural oil on your face, leaving your skin dry. Also, residue from laundry detergents and fabric softeners can irritate your skin as well.

 

Dermatitis

It's a skin rash caused by wearing a facial mask covering for prolonged periods. The most common type of dermatitis is known as irritant contact dermatitis. This dermatitis is caused by constant direct contact with something that irritates the skin.

 

Its symptoms include

• Red rash
• Itching that can be severe
• Dry, cracked, scaly skin
• Bumps and blisters that may ooze and crust over
• Swelling, burning, or tenderness.

 

Dermatitis can also occur due to an allergic reaction to mask-like rubber, glue, metal, and formaldehyde materials. However, this form of dermatitis is called allergic contact dermatitis.

 

Acne

Those prone to acne may have increased breakouts due to wearing a facial covering for a long time. The mask will trap any microorganism bacteria that lead to clogged pores and breakouts when paired with dampness from breathing and sweating.

 

Rosacea

It's a skin condition involving enlarged facial blood vessels resulting in the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin having a flushed appearance. This condition can, at times, affects the chest. It has numerous triggers, including heat. Wearing facial coverage may increase the temperature around that area, thus resulting in a rosacea flare.

 

Sores spots on the ears or nose

Wearing a mask for an extended period can result in soreness over the ears and the nose. Its caused by the friction of the mask rubbing on the skin.

 

Sources:

1. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/face/prevent-face-mask-skin-problems

2. https://www.nivea-me.com/en-me/advice/3-side-effects-of-wearing-a-mask-on-your-skin-and-how-to-avoid-them

3. https://www.ducray.com/en-gb/expert-answers/covid-19-masks-potential-side-effects-on-your-skin

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