This new accessory indispensable to our daily lives has not been well received by all skin types. It is therefore necessary to realize that some allergic reactions can effectively arise from the use of protective masks and realize what care we can take to avoid these same irritations.
Anna Chien, dermatologist at Johns Hopkins University's Department of Dermatology presents some ways to treat facial eruptions caused by masks while continuing to protect herself.
1. Wear the mask suitable for our face
Dermatologist Anna Chien considers the correct use of the mask important and advises that this accessory fits perfectly on our face. The mask should not be too big or too tight to not create friction on our face.
We should also adjust it to our nose without squeezing it too tightly and try to prevent it from going too high, so as not to interfere with our eyes or glasses, for example, if we wear them.
2. Keep the mask clean
Nasal mucus, saliva and sweat are factors that make the mask more moist and encourage rashes. Therefore, dermatologist Anna Chien, advises to keep the protective mask always clean.
Once wet, the mask should be changed or, if reusable, washed as indicated. The use of softener or other invasive chemical is not advisable.
3. Use few chemicals on the skin
The skin care routine is also very important and can have interference with the irritations that happen there. As long as the use of a mask is necessary, we should use mild soaps and water to wash the face, no perfumed or antibacterial products. We should also choose a good moisturizer for day and night.
4. Avoid wearing makeup
Make up is not compatible with mask. First because it gets dirty and can moisten the fabric. Then because we're going to be "muffling" the skin twice, with the fabric and the products.
If it is even strictly necessary to apply make-up, try using dermatologically tested and lighter make-up.
5. Hydrate the skin
What happens to many people who wear the mask is that they get irritations similar to those that happen in "baby butts". In other words, we end up dealing with the same problem: live flesh skin due to the hot and humid environment that, as with diapers, also happens with masks. Dermatologist Anna Chien therefore recommends the use of a barrier spray such as vaseline or zinc oxide.
Who will be the most affected by skin irritations?
Dermatologist Anne Chien says that this type of irritation is more likely to occur in people who already deal with other types of skin problems such as:
- Rosacea
- Acne
- Atopic Dermatitis also known as Eczema
- Sensitivity to wet or dry air
- Allergies