Since the outbreak of the pneumonia epidemic in Wuhan City, everyone has lived a life where protective masks are indispensable and disinfectant alcohol is used as moisturizer. Although it has brought many inconveniences to daily life, everyone is eager to actively take protective measures in order to protect themselves and others as soon as possible.

However, we have also seen such reports: medical staff have developed facial skin swelling and allergies due to long-term wearing masks and protective goggles. As ordinary people, we should not only feel pain and admiration for healthcare workers but also pay attention to our own facial problems and be vigilant about the occurrence of swelling and allergies.

Why can wearing masks cause allergies?

Skin infections caused by poor breathability in hot weather are a key reason

Long-term wearing of protective masks with poor breathability, the moisture in the nostrils, and droplets during communication will create a local damp and warm environment around the lips and nose.

When breathing, some pathogens and fine dust particles are easy to adhere to the outer surface of the protective mask, and these pathogens just love this cold and damp environment, so they thrive, including Propionibacterium acnes, Malassezia, and Pityrosporum orbiculare, etc.

If the protective mask comes into long-term contact with the face, it can lead to facial infection by these pathogens, causing allergies, or even causing blackheads, comedones, acne, rosacea, and other skin problems.

Counterfeit and fake protective masks can also cause allergies

The material of reliable medical surgical protective masks is non-woven fabric, while the material of N95 protective masks includes breathable fabric, filter cotton, etc. These two types of protective masks have certain requirements for skin-friendliness and generally do not cause allergies.

Currently, there are many illegal stores selling counterfeit protective masks on the market, which not only cannot provide relative safety protection but may also cause skin allergies. It is recommended that everyone should choose reliable ways, be alert, and make rational and cautious purchases when buying.

How to prevent swelling and skin allergies caused by wearing masks?

Wear a protective mask that fits tightly and comfortably

For most people, wearing a disposable medical surgical mask during low-risk exposure is sufficient. Non-earloop masks such as bandage-style masks can also reduce friction and working pressure on the back of the ears. The wearing time should not be too long. If the hygienic conditions permit, remove the protective mask or change the position of the protective mask appropriately every 2-3 hours to partially relieve the pressure.

Pay attention to facial cleanliness and relieve skin pressure

Wearing a mask for a long time will inevitably increase the pressure on the skin. At this time, it is recommended to avoid using excessive nourishing skincare products and thick foundations, let the skin embrace nature, and use light skincare products as much as possible, such as water, milk, and sunscreen. It is not necessary to add additional pressure to the skin.

Be cautious when choosing masks for allergic constitutions

People with allergic constitutions should be aware of the mask material before wearing it, avoid skin allergy ingredients, and also prevent the use of counterfeit goods. Immediately replace the protective mask when it is damp and cold.

If allergic to the raw material skin, discontinue using this type of protective mask. If the symptoms are relatively mild, they can be self-managed and alleviated. If the symptoms are more severe, with redness, papules, and significant itching, it is recommended to take second-generation antihistamines under the specific guidance of a dermatologist, apply strong growth hormone cream externally, and also use medicated value gauze cold compresses on the face for clearing heat and reducing fire.