Q&A Series #45

Q&A Series #45Q:

What are the symptoms of face mask skin irritation?

A: Face Mask Skin Irritation Is a Real Thing now! We have been seeing more and more patients coming with these complaints in recent months.

Their presenting symptoms are usually rash, itchiness, redness, acne breakouts, rough skin texture and hyperpigmentation either resulting from acne, skin inflammation or constant rubbing of the mask against our skin.

The symptoms are largely due to:

Acne Flares: from occlusion of the pilosebaceous unit from tight fitting mask & humid microclimate created inside mask

Irritant contact dermatitis: due to constant friction especially on bony area of nasal bridge with metal clips

Allergic contact dermatitis: from release of free formaldehyde found in some N95 mask causing redness, itchiness & burning

Post inflammatory redness & hyperpigmentation from constant irritation to skin

Dr. Tan

Video credit: Health.com