Face Mask Dermatitis

Is your acne acting up? Are you suffering from facial redness? Is your rosacea coming back? 

The culprit could be the face mask you have been wearing, leading to face mask dermatitis and other skin concerns.

Face masks are the norm these days. While they offer protection from spreading viruses and bacteria, they might create some skin concerns.

A variety of materials are used to make masks. Some are made with cotton and other natural materials, but the vast majority are made using synthetic fibers. Masks are usually layered in order to offer more protection. Some are treated with chemicals to achieve a better microbial shield.

Thicker and more insulated masks can create skin irritation and sweating.

Acne mechanica is a condition caused by blocking the pilosebaceous units (hair shaft, the hair follicle, the sebaceous gland, and the erector pili muscle). And this blockage can lead to pimples and comedones.

To avoid acne pimples, use breathable fabric for your mask and use topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide washes.

Redness and rosacea can be secondary to heat and humidity. Use light and breathable materials such as cotton for your face mask.

Allergies to the mask can lead to contact dermatitis. This can manifest with dry, itchy skin and peeling. Contact dermatitis can create post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

To alleviate the discomfort, use a gentle cleanser such as Dr DeJuliis’ Chamomile or Limu cleansers, followed by a good moisturizing cream. Herbal silk or Ultra Soy Peptide Crème are ideal.

If the contact dermatitis leads to hives, use a mild, over-the-counter topical steroid cream for few days and change your mask to a light cotton or silk one.

Love your skin.

www.AuroraDeJuliisMD.com