Analysis of Surgical Masks Adverse Effects on Facial Skin in Long Term Usage during COVID-19 Pandemic

INTRODUCTION: During the COVID-19 pandemic, masks have become mandatory to be protected against the virus transmitted by breathing. This study aimed to examine the impact of surgical masks used daily on civilians' facial skin.
METHODS: Moisture, Elasticity, Pore, Melanin, Acne, Wrinkle, and Sensitivity parameters of 83 volunteers were measured numerically with an API-100 skin analyzer and camera recordings. Numerical values were compared following the device's algorithm calibrated according to age, gender and race. Finally, the obtained data were statistically evaluated compared to the averages.
RESULTS: It was observed that Pore, Melanin, Acne, and Wrinkle parameters were higher without gender discrimination while Moisture and Elasticity parameters were low. While a significant increase was observed in women for sensitivity, the increase was not statistically significant in men.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The negative effects of long-term daily wearing of surgical masks on the facial skin were statistically significant. Therefore, taking outdoor breaks in mask use, washing the face intermittently, using moisturizing and purifying cosmetic products, and anti-wrinkle effects have been proposed to reduce the possible.