Prevent (and treat) skin problems caused by face masks

Hello everyone!

Wearing a mask to help protect against Covid-19 is a must.  By now we are all accustomed to wearing a face mask every time we step outside or whenever someone visits out household.  But wearing a mask can sometimes be a pain; literally.

Many have reported adverse skin reactions after wearing masks daily; the most common conditions include acne, facial itch and rash.  If you find that wearing a face mask is causing a skin problem or irritation, you may be able to treat it yourself. 

Here’s what you can do to treat skin problems caused by face masks at home.

1. Follow a gentle skincare routine.  Skincare plays a vital role in healing your skin. 

2. Treat your skin.   Here’s what dermatologists recommend:

• Acne: Wash your face after wearing a mask, being sure to use a non-comedogenic moisturiser after washing.  
• Raw, irritated skin: Apply petroleum jelly or a diaper rash cream to irritated spots on your face before bed.  
• Sore skin behind your ears: If you can, alternate the types of mask you wear.  Find masks with different types of ties and ear loops.  

People who are already living with skin issues, such as the ones listed below, might be more likely to experience face-mask-related irritations.

• Rosacea
• Acne
• Atopic dermatitis/eczema
• Sensitivity to humid or dry air
• Allergies

3. Stop applying products and medications that can irritate your skin.  Until the skin heals, dermatologists recommend you stop using:

• Acne treatments that contain salicylic acid
• Anti-ageing products
• At-home light devices
• Peels or scrubs

4. Don’t wear makeup.  Until your skin heals, makeup can worsen skin problems.

Since no one will see the lower half of your face, it’s a perfect time to skip makeup that can aggravate your skin.  If you really must apply makeup, use a non-comedogenic product.

5. Wash your cloth face masks.  You can remove germs, oils, and particles that collect on the mask by washing a cloth mask in a washing machine or by hand.  Just be sure to:

• Follow the washing instructions.
• Wash the masks in hot water, unless the instructions say otherwise.
• Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic laundry detergent. (I also use a laundry sanitiser.)
• Store your masks in a bag to keep them clean.

Besides helping to keep your skin healthy, it is recommended that you wash your cloth face masks after each use to limit the spread of germs.

It’s important to continue wearing a mask, even when it causes skin irritation.

Take care and stay safe!