During the COVID-19 pandemic, wearing a facemask is a mandatory requirement. However, excessive usage may result in skin concerns. Here are some pointers to help you prevent breakouts and skin irritation when using a face mask.

Previously, only health care professionals used masks when treating COVID-19 patients. However, when researchers discovered that the new coronavirus is extremely infectious and that the majority of cases are asymptomatic, it was mandated that everyone wear face masks. While the advantages of using face masks in guarding against the deadly virus cannot be overstated, there are some drawbacks.

Wearing a face mask for an extended period of time may cause skin issues ranging from the flare-up of skin rashes to the aggravation of acne. Because your skin need some breathing room, it is essential to be cautious about what you apply to your face before putting on your masks and going out, as it may also obstruct your air circulation. We’ve put up a few pointers to help you protect your skin when using a face mask.

Skin should be moisturised

Apply a mild moisturiser after thoroughly cleansing your skin. If your skin is very dry, you may also use a thick moisturising lotion. However, avoid ointments since they may be excessively oily. Additionally, ointments may have a negative impact on the seal of some tight-fitting masks.

Apply a little sunscreen lotion or cream to your skin

Use a mild sunscreen lotion or cream, ideally one that is mineral-based and includes titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Certain compounds in sunscreen may deteriorate the integrity of the mask’s rubber or elastic components. As a result, stick to creams that include the aforementioned characteristics.

Check that it is not overly tight

Make sure your mask completely covers your nose and mouth. However, it should not be so tight that you bruise your skin. If you’re using a DIY mask, loosen it up before applying it to your face to prevent skin irritation and bruising.

Avoid applying makeup on top of your mask

Under your mask, avoid wearing any makeup or foundation. This may cause your skin to break out since there is less air circulation, which may allow the chemicals in the makeup to react with your skin and create a variety of skin issues.

Make use of paper tape or micropore tape

If you wear glasses and they fog up while wearing a mask, attach the mask over the bridge of your nose and to your cheeks using “paper-tape” or “micropore” tape. This will keep your eye protection from fogging up due to your breath. When you remove the mask, this kind of tape is less likely to pull or harm your skin.

Please wash your hands

After removing your mask, wash your hands with soap and water. Also, avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, lips, and nose.

After removing your mask, apply petroleum jelly

If you have raw or chaffed skin, use petroleum jelly after you’ve completed your mask for the day. You may also use an aloe vera mask to soothe your skin since it contains anti-inflammatory qualities.

When possible, use a fabric mask instead of a paper mask

Masks on the market may irritate your ears due to their tight elastic bands. As a result, consider using a fabric mask with cloth ear loops, which will not cause skin burns or irritation.

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