The CDC’s most recent public-health advisory recommends that every American wear a cloth face covering in public to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Whether you are a health care worker on the frontlines or just stepping out to run errands, wearing
a mask for an extended period can lead to a variety of skin problems such as breakouts, irritation and infections, it traps sweat, oil and bacteria which can traumatize the skin from the friction and pressure.
Here are some tips on how to best take care of your skin before and after wearing a protective face covering.
- If you are going to be wearing a mask for long period, most dermatologist suggests prepping your skin by applying Band-Aid over the bridge of your nose or Vaseline, this will reduce the friction and prevent skin breakdown.
- Avoid wearing makeup, this will clog pores and add to breakouts over masked areas.
- When you are done wearing a mask for the day, having a skin routine will prevent trauma to the skin. You can begin by using a soft facial cleanser that will dissolve and gently wash away dirt without stripping your skin, once your face is clean apply a toner then a moisturizer.