• Login
    • Join
  • Subscribe Free
    • Magazine
    • eNewsletter
    Checkout
    • Magazine
    • News
    • Formulary
    • Exclusives
    • Top Companies
    • Raw Materials
    • End-User
    • Packaging
    • Directories
    • Events
    • Jobs
    • More
  • Magazine
  • News
  • Formulary
  • Exclusives
  • Top Companies
  • Raw Materials
  • End-User
  • Packaging
  • Directories
  • Events
  • Jobs
  • Current / Back Issues
    Features
    Columns
    Editorial
    Digital Edition
    eNewsletter Archive
    Our Team
    Editorial Guidelines
    Subscribe Now
    Advertise Now
    Top Features
    HCPA Builds Key Alliances In & Out of Washington

    NYSCC Suppliers’ Day Is Back on Schedule

    Salon Consumers Seek Wellness, Skincare Benefits in Professional Haircare

    Sustainability Continues To Shape Beauty, Home & Personal Care Packaging

    The Power of Neem in Personal Care Formulas
    Online Exclusives
    Association News
    Breaking News
    Financial News
    Industry News
    International
    Marketing News
    New Products
    News Front
    Packaging News
    Patents
    Personnel
    Regulations
    Snapshots
    Top News
    Live From Shows
    Top News
    Rhode Island’s Department of Health, Raw Elements and Partners Expand Touch-Free Mineral Sunscreen

    Julee Wilson Named Executive Director of BeautyUnited

    Arey Launches Unisex Leave-In Conditioner

    Marianna Trofimova Named Function of Beauty’s Chief Marketing Officer

    Henkel Opens ‘Researchers' World’ Youth Classroom in Connecticut
    Blog
    Online Exclusives
    Glossary
    Infographics
    Podcasts
    Whitepapers
    Videos
    Expert's Opinion
    HappiTV
    eBook
    Surveys
    International Top 30 Report
    Top 50 Report
    Top Companies
    Henkel

    19. LG Household & Healthcare

    Markwins

    14. Kosé

    11. Limited Brands
    Actives
    Functional Ingredients
    Pigments
    Polymers
    Preservatives
    Surfactants

    Global Cosmetic Ingredients Market Forecast

    A Suitor Emerges for Revlon, SK Capital’s New Dealmaker & P&G’s Indoor Air Quality Efforts

    Wonder Curl Wins GlossWire's GlossPitch Competition

    Botanical Embedded Candles Can Be Fire Hazard, Says National Candle Association

    McKinsey Identifies the Gaps in Black Beauty
    Air Care/Environmental Fragrance
    AP/Deo
    Color Cosmetics
    Disinfectants
    Fine Fragrance
    Hair Care
    Household Cleaning
    I&I Marketplace
    Laundry Care
    Oral Care
    OTC/Medicated
    Packaging
    Personal Cleansers
    Skin Care
    Sun Care
    Testing

    Rhode Island’s Department of Health, Raw Elements and Partners Expand Touch-Free Mineral Sunscreen

    Julee Wilson Named Executive Director of BeautyUnited

    Arey Launches Unisex Leave-In Conditioner

    Marianna Trofimova Named Function of Beauty’s Chief Marketing Officer

    Henkel Opens ‘Researchers' World’ Youth Classroom in Connecticut
    Lab Equipment
    Mixing
    Packaging
    Testing

    L’Oréal Paris Has a New Answer For Men with Gray Hair

    Labskin's Microbiome-Friendly+ Seal of Approval Available in the US

    Sustainability Continues To Shape Beauty, Home & Personal Care Packaging

    Technology Cuts Plastic Decomposition from 500 Years to Three Months

    Aerosol Recycling Initiative Launched by HCPA
    Contract Manufacturing / Private Label Directory
    Buyer's Guide
    Add New Company
    Corporate Profiles
    International Buyers Guide Companies
    cosmopak usa

    Centerchem LLC

    Jeen International

    Croda Inc

    LipoTrue Inc.
    Live From Shows
    Meetings
    Webinars
    Snapshots
    • Magazine
      • Current / Back Issues
      • Features
      • Editorial
      • Columns
      • Digital Edition
      • eNewsletter Archive
      • Subscribe Now
      • Advertise Now
    • Breaking News
    • Formulary
    • Directories
      • Buyer's Guide
      • Contract Manufacturing / Private Label Directory
      • Corporate Profiles
      • Add Your Company
    • Raw Materials
      • Actives
      • Functional Ingredients
      • Pigments
      • Polymers
      • Preservatives
      • Surfactants
    • End-User
      • Air Care/Environmental Fragrance
      • AP/Deo
      • Color Cosmetics
      • Disinfectants
      • Fine Fragrance
      • Hair Care
      • Household Cleaning
      • I&I Marketplace
      • Laundry Care
      • Oral Care
      • OTC/Medicated
      • Packaging
      • Personal Cleansers
      • Skin Care
      • Sun Care
      • Testing
    • Packaging
      • Lab Equipment
      • Mixing
      • Packaging
      • Testing
    • Top Companies
      • International Top 30 Report
      • Top 50 Report
    • Online Exclusives
    • Glossary
    • Experts Opinion
    • Slideshows
    • HappiTV
    • Podcasts
    • Videos
    • Infographics
    • eBook
    • Blog
    • Whitepapers
    • Surveys
      • R & D Salary Survey
      • Sales & Marketing Salary Survey
    • Job Banks
    • Events
      • Industry Events
      • Live from show Events
      • Webinars
    • About Us
      • About Us
      • Contact Us
      • Advertise With Us
      • Privacy Policy
      • Terms of Use
    Efficacy Challenges

    The Cutaneous Consequences of Frequent Mask Usage

    ...

    The Cutaneous Consequences of Frequent Mask Usage
    Paolo Giacomoni, PhD, Insight Analysis Consulting11.05.20
    In the presence of an airborne pathogen such as a coronavirus, which is carried by aerosol droplets released by infected individuals while breathing and speaking, wearing a mask is not an option—it is a requirement. Wearing a mask is the single best way to avoid contaminating one’s neighbor, it is an act of kindness, a civic duty, a showing of care for others, and the best way to avoid spreading the disease. The mode of action of masks is simple and straightforward. It is depicted in Figure 1 and the picture is self-explanatory.

    A relatively minor undesirable consequence of wearing masks—when compared to the paramount importance of protecting others against a contamination originating from us—is skin discomfort. This consequence has been observed and analyzed in healthcare professionals who typically wear masks for several hours without interruption.

    In Spring 2020 in New York, 314 healthcare professionals on the COVID-19 frontline answered a questionnaire with 21 questions relative to adverse effects of personal protection equipment. More than 9 in 10 (91%) of the respondents were female, 60% of the respondents were using N95 masks and 40% were using surgical masks. Among the respondents, 175 experienced skin breakdown and 182 reported acne. Previous history of skin sensitivity (n = 164) and acne (n = 121) were found in some respondents. As possible palliative interventions for future management of adverse effects related to prolonged mask use, the author of the study recommends frequent breaks, improved hydration, skin care and comfortable masks.1

    Feel the Heat
    A study has tackled the question relative to what a comfortable mask may be. The authors measured skin temperature in individuals wearing either a surgical mask or an N95 mask and observed that after one hour under the surgical mask, the temperature of the skin is lower than after one hour under an N95 mask. The results suggest that N95 masks induce increased facial skin temperature, greater discomfort and lower wearing adherence when compared to the medical surgical masks. In the very words of the authors, “The N95 mask produces a major increase in skin facial temperature with major discomfort, and volunteers have shown greater adherence in the use of the surgical mask rather than N95.”2

    Dr. Girish Mohan of the Hartford Health Care Center for Dermatology has been quoted as saying: “The masks are a great way to protect ourselves and others from COVID-19 and are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control, but they can cause repetitive friction and redirect your own airflow against the face. Each time we inhale and exhale, moisture accumulates and the mask traps it against the skin of the face. This can lead to acne flares and to skin that can get dry, itchy, red and starts to peel. Also, the cloth rubbing against the skin can irritate.”

    Possible Interventions
    The wearing of a mask can exacerbate the undesired consequences of a skin that is acne prone or with other pre-existing conditions such as a history of rosacea, rashes etc., but can also provoke new effects because of increased temperature, brushing, occlusion or increased environmental humidity.

    A consistent skin care routine can help to prevent problems. Mohan has been quoted as suggesting a daily skin care regimen to soothe the skin for all mask wearers, as follows. A fragrance-free cleanser can be used to remove oil, dirt, bacteria and irritants. After cleansing, the skin moisture balance can be maintained with a fragrance-free facial moisturizer while avoiding makeup in the areas covered by the mask since the cosmetic components can act as an additional irritant under the pressure from the mask.

    For specific skin conditions, Mohan suggests the following:

    Dry skin: Some masks can absorb the natural moisture and dry out skin. One can apply creams containing ceramides to rehydrate the skin. Ceramides can help restore the skin moisture balance that is disrupted in dry skin.

    Dermatitis: Dermatitis is characterized by an itchy rash, dry or scaly skin, bumps and blisters, and/or swelling and burning. One can try using a different mask, and may apply a topical over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1%. If the dermatitis persists, one might need to consult a dermatologist.

    Acne: Acne-prone people may experience an exacerbation while wearing masks. One can try using over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide-containing or salicylic acid-containing acne washes as well as topical niacinamide or adapalene.

    Rosacea: Heat and sweating can trigger rosacea, which is characterized by redness, enlarged blood vessels and firm or fluid-filled bumps, most commonly on the cheeks and chin. Since wearing a mask increases the temperature of the skin and increases sweating, rosacea-prone skin may flare. A dermatologist can prescribe a variety of medications to treat rosacea.

    Time Factor?
    Northwestern Medicine Dermatologist Dr. Walter J. Liszewski has been quoted as saying that the duration of time wearing a mask doesn’t directly correlate to acne development.

    “I’m seeing as much mask acne in people who work in health care and wear a face mask for eight hours a day as in people who are just wearing their mask to the grocery store,” he said.

    To reduce the amount of acne-causing bacteria on your skin, Liszewski suggests washing the face with a cleanser containing 2% to 5% benzoyl peroxide. The benzoyl peroxide solution should sit on the skin for two to three minutes before rinsing it away and a non-comedogenic moisturizer should be applied after washing. If the acne doesn’t clear up, it may be helpful to see a dermatologist for additional treatment.
    Remember, dropping the mask is not an option: wearing a mask is vital to your health and others during the pandemic.

    The use of masks can provoke skin irritation for many people.

    “Frictional or irritant dermatitis can be easily relieved by minimizing pressure of the mask on the face, or using thick barrier creams to protect the skin from chafing,” says Liszewski.

    Rashes due to allergies are not common with masks. If one suspects having a skin allergy to the mask, consulting a dermatologist is more than just a good idea.

    Last but not least, people working outdoors should wear a sunscreen under the mask. Dermatologist Orit Markowitz, director of pigmented lesions and skin cancer at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, observed, “A typical cloth face mask gives you the equivalent sun protection of only SPF 7 or so.”

    Fabrics do indeed offer only a small SPF3 and the possible undesired side effects of wearing a mask could be exacerbated by exposure to sunlight. 

    References
    1. E. Rosner (2020) Adverse effects of Prolonged Mask Use among Healthcare Professionals during Covid-19. J Infect Dis Epidemiol. 6 : 130
    2. Scarano, A, Inchingolo F, Lorusso, F (2020) Facial Skin Temperature and Skin Discomfort when Wearing Protective Face Masks: Thermal Infrared Imaging Evaluation and Hands Moving the Mask. Int J Environ Res Public Health 17: 4624
    3. Driscoll CMH (2001) Artificial Protection against Solar Radiation - Fabrics. In (PU Giacomoni, Editor) Sun Protection in Man, Elsevier, Amsterdam, pages 457-486


    Paolo Giacomoni, PhD
    Insight Analysis Consulting
    paologiac@gmail.com
    516-769-6904

    Paolo Giacomoni acts as an independent consultant to the skin care industry. He served as executive director of research at Estée Lauder and was head of the department of biology with L’Oréal. He has built a record of achievements through research on DNA damage and metabolic impairment induced by UV radiation as well as on the positive effects of vitamins and antioxidants. He has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications and has more than 20 patents.
    Related Searches
    • Functional Ingredients
    • Skin Care
    • Actives
    Related Knowledge Center
    • Skin Care
    • Functional Ingredients
    • Actives

    Related Content

      Loading, Please Wait..
      Trending
      • L’Oréal Paris Has A New Answer For Men With Gray Hair
      • A Suitor Emerges For Revlon, SK Capital’s New Dealmaker & P&G’s Indoor Air Quality Efforts
      • Beauty After Covid: Reformation And Renaissance
      • Past Henkel Exec Christian Chopra Named President Of Scotch Porter
      • Hailey Bieber's Rhode Beauty Sued For Trademark Infringement
      Breaking News
      • Rhode Island’s Department of Health, Raw Elements and Partners Expand Touch-Free Mineral Sunscreen
      • Julee Wilson Named Executive Director of BeautyUnited
      • Arey Launches Unisex Leave-In Conditioner
      • Marianna Trofimova Named Function of Beauty’s Chief Marketing Officer
      • Henkel Opens ‘Researchers' World’ Youth Classroom in Connecticut
      View Breaking News >
      CURRENT ISSUE

      June 2022

      • Skin Care Needs In a Post-Covid World
      • Salon Hair Care Trends
      • Sustainability Shapes Beauty, Home & Personal Care Packages
      • Formulating with Neem in Personal Care Formulas
      • Suppliers' Day Trade Show by Society of Cosmetic Chemists
      • Household and Commercial Products Midyear Meeting Review
      • Household & Personal Care Trade Association Directory 2022

      Cookies help us to provide you with an excellent service. By using our website, you declare yourself in agreement with our use of cookies.
      You can obtain detailed information about the use of cookies on our website by clicking on "More information”.

      • About Us
      • Privacy Policy
      • Terms And Conditions
      • Contact Us

      follow us

      Subscribe
      Nutraceuticals World

      Latest Breaking News From Nutraceuticals World

      Kensing Acquires Vitae Naturals
      CoQ10 and Royal Jelly Supplementation May Improve High Intensity Exercise
      Shiitake Mushroom Extract Appears Helpful in HPV Infections
      Coatings World

      Latest Breaking News From Coatings World

      PPG to Increase U.S. Aerospace Products Manufacturing Output to Meet Rising Demand
      Solvay to Discontinue Use of Fluorosurfactants for Production of Fluoropolymers
      AkzoNobel Names New CEO
      Medical Product Outsourcing

      Latest Breaking News From Medical Product Outsourcing

      Varian Receives IDE Exemption from FDA to Advance Flash Clinical Research Program
      Enhatch Partners with Holo-Light to Deliver New Extended Reality Streaming Platform
      Study Confirms Safety, Accuracy of Vectorious' V-LAP In-Heart Sensor
      Contract Pharma

      Latest Breaking News From Contract Pharma

      Shimadzu Scientific Instruments Extends HQ Campus
      Vetter’s Newest Clinical Manufacturing Site Completes First Customer Fills
      Batavia Enters Commercial Manufacturing Business
      Beauty Packaging

      Latest Breaking News From Beauty Packaging

      Naples Soap Company to Open New Store in Venice, Florida
      Nectar Recruits 8-Year-Old YouTube Star to Launch Her Own Bath & Body Line
      L'Oreal Exec Joins Function of Beauty
      Happi

      Latest Breaking News From Happi

      Rhode Island’s Department of Health, Raw Elements and Partners Expand Touch-Free Mineral Sunscreen
      Julee Wilson Named Executive Director of BeautyUnited
      Arey Launches Unisex Leave-In Conditioner
      Ink World

      Latest Breaking News From Ink World

      Amcor Lift-Off Initiative Shortlists Start-ups for Seed Funding
      Barentz Highlights Lincoln MFG’s New ISO 9001:2015 Certification
      Ingevity Appoints Christine Stunyo as Chief Human Resources Officer
      Label & Narrow Web

      Latest Breaking News From Label & Narrow Web

      Eaglewood introduces Sitexco Label L10 anilox cleaning system
      Germark makes double press investment in Bobst
      UPM Raflatac to enhance service capabilities at Mills River factory
      Nonwovens Industry

      Latest Breaking News From Nonwovens Industry

      Rockline's Springdale Campus Achieves 15 Million Safe Work Hours
      Emmanuelle Picard to Join Ahlstrom-Munksjö's Executive Management Team
      Alkegen Completes Luyang Acquisition
      Orthopedic Design & Technology

      Latest Breaking News From Orthopedic Design & Technology

      Researchers Develop Microfluidic Sensors to Improve Implant Survival Rates
      Lawrence Yellin Appointed as Fuse Medical CFO
      Researchers Discover Novel Patching Material for Bone Defects
      Printed Electronics Now

      Latest Breaking News From Printed Electronics Now

      Avery Dennison Highlights New Approach to Apparel with ADX Lab
      trinamiX Face Authentication Protects Users from Fraud Attacks During Mobile Payments
      Hugo Boss Partners with Nedap for Global RFID Roll-out

      Copyright © 2022 Rodman Media. All rights reserved. Use of this constitutes acceptance of our privacy policy The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Rodman Media.

      AD BLOCKER DETECTED

      Our website is made possible by displaying online advertisements to our visitors.
      Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker.


      FREE SUBSCRIPTION Already a subscriber? Login