A mask is a vital tool when preventing the spread of diseases. There is a belief that a mask is for health care providers, but that is not true. Nowadays mask is essential in the prevention of airborne diseases like coronavirus. But, again, you have to wear a face mask for a long time since the disease is contagious and can quickly spread in public places. Using a brand like N95 Mask helps if you take measures to prevent skin problems due to using a face mask. Read on to find out exactly how to ensure you don’t get skin problems from wearing a face mask:
Cleansing and Moisturizing the Face Helps
Your skin may get irritation depending on the fabric used in making the mask. It is best if you practice gentle skincare to prevent skin problems. Similarly, you can use mild skin care products to wash and cleanse the face. Again, dry skin is a condition that you can have due to using a face mask. To moisturize allows your skin to add a layer that can reduce dryness. Remember using a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type increases the protection on your face.
Take a Break from makeup
Makeup tends to clog your pores and lead to breakouts. In addition, wearing the mask can cause the clogging and breakout to be severe, thus making you feel uncomfortable. If you have to makeup, ensure you use products labeled “non-comedogenic as these products won’t clog your pore. Again, the makeup needs to be light as heavy makeup tends to prevent the skin from breathing.
Protect Your Lips
Lips are some of your face parts that the mask will cover, and this can prevent air from refreshing your lips. Besides, chapped lips and dry skin are common problems caused by putting on face masks. Therefore, it is best if you protect your lips by applying petroleum jelly to them after washing your face, before going to bed, and before wearing your mask. The jelly will keep your lips moisturized as they stay under the mask without free air circulation.
Use the Right Mask
There are different masks meant for various purposes; hence you need to choose the suitable one. For instance, the cover you use need to;
- Have at least two layers for double protection in case you come into contact with the virus
- Snug with a comfortable fit to reduce skin problems because if the mask slides around your face or is tight, it can cause skin irritation
- Be made of naturally soft, breathable fabric which rests on your skin as the synthetic fabric is likely to irritate your skin
Take Mask Breaks
Wearing a mask for long hours is uncomfortable, and it can lead to skin problems. It helps if you take 15-minutes breaks after every four hours of wearing a mask. The pauses allow your skin to breathe from the straps. Remember, you can only remove the cover when you are feeling safe and after washing your hands.
To avoid skin problems when wearing a mask, it helps if you consider the manufacturing date. For example, before buying an N95 Mask, you can check the pack to confirm the manufacturing date and the recommended expiry date.