How to manage the effects of mask-wearing on your skin

Step 1: Hydration is key to the proper functioning of the skin.

The use of moisturisers can help alleviate dry skin and itch. The European Guidelines for Chronic Pruritus (itch), for example, lists moisturisers as one of the basic options to help alleviate itch.

The outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, consists of layers of flattened, dead skin cells embedded in a lipid bilayer, and it is through this layer that moisture can be lost to the outside environment. As the skin loses moisture, the integrity of the stratum corneum becomes impaired, leading to small cracks and gaps forming in between the cells. This not only leads to dry, flaky skin, it allows the passage of irritants and allergens into the skin, causing irritation and even flare-ups of existing conditions such as eczema.

One way to combat this is through the use of well-formulated, effective moisturisers. By using products that contain ingredients such as occludents, emollients and humectants that mimic how the skin naturally hydrates itself, you can not only offset the dryness that can be caused by face masks, but also help to reduce irritation and discomfort. In addition, moisturisers containing occlusive ingredients such as petrolatum or silicones such as dimethicone can help to form a water-resistant barrier on the skin, reducing the negative impact of too much moisture building up under your mask.

The QV Range contains products that have been scientifically formulated to provide varying levels of moisturisation for all skin types. QV Cream and QV Skin Lotion are highly concentrated, light formulations specifically designed for sensitive skin and protect against water loss by sealing in the skin’s own natural moisture.

If dryness and irritation persist, you may want to try moisturisers with a heavier, occlusive base. These can feel greasier than lotions or creams, but they will form a layer on your skin, trapping moisture in. By using these types of moisturiser at night while you sleep, you do not need to worry about discomfort or the effects of wearing a mask. QV Intensive Ointment, which is designed for extremely dry skin, is a water-free formulation that won’t sting if applied to skin that is particularly dry or even cracked.

 

Step 2: Choose the correct products to help manage break-outs

If the build-up of sebum on the skin as a result of mask wearing is leading to pimples or mask-related acne, you may want to try topical products that are designed to unclog pores of dirt, sebum and bacteria. Active ingredients such as azelaic acid have been shown to be effective in combating the key factors of acne, including inflammation, the build-up of bacteria, and the formation of blackheads. Other topical skincare ingredients such as niacinamide, or Vitamin B3, have also demonstrated effectiveness against acne. If you are unsure what products may help, or if your acne is severe, talk to a GP or dermatologist.

 

Step 3: Practice good hygiene and use a cleanser that won’t aggravate your skin

In addition to masks, another key recommendation by healthcare bodies during this pandemic is frequent and thorough hand hygiene. Washing your skin with water and soap (or a non-soap based cleanser) is one of the best things you can do to help stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. But cleansing the skin properly is also important when it comes to managing the impact of prolonged mask wearing. As noted above, the increased temperature of your face when under a mask can lead to the build-up of sebum and the clogging of pores, so a daily routine that utilises a cleanser and water can help to offset this. Soap is the traditional cleanser of choice for most people, but as it is naturally alkaline, and our skin is naturally slightly acidic, soap can alter the skin's composition and lead to irritation, especially for people with sensitive skin or pre-existing skin conditions. Using a gentle, pH balanced cleanser in place of soap will cleanse the skin just as well as soap without aggravating it. In the QV Range, QV Gentle Wash is a soap-free, lightly foaming gentle cleanser designed with sensitive skin in mind.

 

Step 4: Wear the correct mask

The quality of the fit or design of face masks may be significant factors in determining how you skin reacts. Ill-fitting or badly designed masks will not only be ineffective but may significantly increase dry skin or irritation. For instance, a loose-fitting mask may constantly move about your face, leading to friction around the ears, nose and chin, whereas a tight mask may cause deep indentations on your skin, increasing the likelihood of irritation and dryness.

When choosing a mask, pay particular attention to the fit and the material used. For the general public, respirators and filtered masks may not be necessary. In this case, washable cotton masks are best as the material is more breathable than synthetic fabrics such as polyester. Remember to wash the mask in hot water between every use, which will be at the end of the day for most.

Spending a little time to ensure that your face mask is suitable and comfortable, and ensuring that you have appropriate and efficacious topical products to help your skin, is the best course of action to make the wearing of face masks as comfortable as possible.

 

Face masks + social distancing + proper hygiene= a flattened curve

It is more important than ever to remain vigilant and practice each and every guideline to help combat the spread of COVID-19. In addition to face masks and other protective equipment, maintaining social distancing and practicing effective hygiene, such as washing your hands often for at least 20 seconds with soap or a non-soap based cleanser, remain our most effective weapons to date in this fight.

 

Stressed skin?

Try the QV stressed-skin care routine:

  • 1. CLEANSE

    Gentle cleansing morning and night and after extensive mask wearing. See Product.

     

  • 2. MOISTURISE

    Help to relieve, hydrate and soothe sensitive skin. See Product.