Maskne Is the New Acne

摘要

Skin damage caused by enhanced respiratory infection-prevention measures, such as wearing a mask, can affect health care workers including radiologic technologists. In addition, many patient-facing technologists wear these tight-fitting masks for long hours, increasing the possibility of skin damage to occur. In Hubei, China, 83% of health care workers suffered skin problems on the face. The general prevalence rate of skin damage caused by enhanced infection-prevention measures was 97% (526 of 542) among frontline health care workers. The affected sites included the nasal bridge, hands, cheek, and forehead, with the nasal bridge being the most affected (83.1%). Ensuring a mask fits correctly, covering the nose, mouth, and chin, is important (see Figure); however, this skin is very delicate and susceptible to damage. Oil, nasal mucus, saliva, and sweat can accumulate on the mask wherever it touches the face. Thus, keeping the mask clean is vital. Masks also can worsen skin issues that already exist or cause new ones by irritating the skin, clogging pores and flaring acne. The term for breakouts caused by masks is maskne (mask + acne).