The impact of masks on the condition of facial skin in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: The aim of the study was to determine the effects of wearing masks on skin and dermatological diseases in the face among the participants of the survey conducted. Material and Methods: The respondents completed a questionnaire containing 22 single or multiple choice questions. Participation in the survey was voluntary and anonymous. The survey data was used only in this study. Results: The condition of facial skin, as assessed by the respondents, worsened in 69% of those using surgical masks. Regardless of the frequency of mask changing, adverse effects occurred in 60% of the respondents. The most common mask side effects reported by respondents were acne (in 75.7%) and skin exfoliation. More than 47% of pandemic respondents showed interest in skin care. Conclusion: Surgical masks better protect against COVID-19 virus penetration into the upper respiratory tract compared to cotton masks, while they increase the risk of adverse reactions on facial skin. Therefore, there is an increase in public awareness of the need for proper skin care with the use of protective masks.