- Umivale released two informative posters with tips to prevent eye and skin problems from long-term mask use
Masks have been part of our daily lives for months. They protect and help reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection, but after we wear them for a few hours, our skin and eyes start to notice. Skin irritations, facial lesions, acne, dry eyes or erosions of the cornea or conjunctiva are some of the ailments caused by the long-term use of masks, “or by misplacement or use of masks”, says Jose Luis Sebrian of Umivale, responsible for the prevention of mutual infection ( José Luis Cebrián) said. .
So, to reduce harm and encourage the proper use of masks, Umivale Mutual Aid has produced two informative posters with a series of recommendations.
“Continuous use of a mask can cause the skin to become moist from breathing. In addition, friction and pressure on certain parts of the face, such as the nose, cheeks and behind the ears, can lead to skin damage such as irritation or chafing”, explains Cebrián. “As far as the eyes are concerned, the exhaled air rises through the sides of the nose and the space between the mask, which, due to more humidity and heat, can cause the ocular surface to be drier, leading to ocular syndrome. Dryness”.
The two posters, which will be disseminated between the mutual companies in digital format or on paper, bring together sixteen recommendations that we can apply to reduce this negative impact on the skin and eyes.
Eight Tips for Preventing Skin Problems
- Practice proper facial hygiene. Before and after applying the mask, wash your face with water and a non-irritating cleansing soap.
- Moisturize the skin with an appropriate cream according to each person’s skin type before and after using the mask.
- Avoid makeup on the area where the mask is placed to prevent clogging of the skin pores and makeup staining the inside of these protective elements.
- Do not exceed the maximum number of uses and dispose of the mask according to the manufacturer’s instructions for use and renew accordingly.
- Use petroleum jelly to prevent or reduce skin damage (cheekbones/cheekbones, bridge of nose, or behind ears) caused by mask pressure or friction.
- If marks appear on the face after using the mask, apply a restorative cream to care for the skin and avoid/prevent irritation from forming.
- If irritation occurs when the mask is removed or eczema occurs due to stress, use an anti-inflammatory ointment containing a corticosteroid if prescribed by your doctor.
- See a dermatologist if you develop a severe skin reaction or a skin condition such as acne or rosacea that is exacerbated by mask use.
