Because of Covid 19 Pandemic requirements to wear face coverings in public, facial skin irritations are inevitable. Many of us are experiencing a pimple here or there, along with friction sores on the bridge of the nose, behind the ears or under the chin. The longer skin is deprived of fresh air, the worse these conditions can be. In addition, our skin gets hotter while wearing a face covering and this increase in temperature can exacerbate acne, rosacea and psoriasis

This is all new to most of us and I hope the following tips can be of help to you:

Before putting on your mask, wash your face gently with soap and water and pat dry. Follow with a thick layer of facial moisturiser.

Only ever wear a clean, dry mask because bacteria can be easily trapped in a pre-worn mask, thereby increasing your skins exposure to germs. Wash your cloth mask daily in a washing machine or by hand with soap and hot water. Dry it completely in the sunshine followed by a hot dryer or iron and store in a new paper bag to keep it germ-free.

Make sure your mask is fitted tightly enough, but not so tight as to cause friction with your skin. Apply zinc oxide (the likes of Sudocreme) lightly to any friction sores to protect and help heal any irritated areas.

If you’re required to wear a mask for an extended period of time (e.g. in work for 8 hours) try to take as many fresh air mask- free breaks as possible, removing your mask by the ear loops and folding in the area that touches your skin so as it’s not exposed to excess germs. If possible, splash water onto your face during your mask breaks, not forgetting to wash your hands every time you touch your mask.

When you have finished wearing your mask for the day, wash your face and apply a generous layer of moisturiser.