It is very important that members of the public follow the government guidance issued to reduce the transmission of COVID-19, this includes the guidance on wearing face masks. We anticipate that, for the vast majority of people, wearing masks will not lead to noticeable skin problems such as acne.

For a small number of people, there may be some skin irritation, particularly those with pre-existing skin conditions or who find themselves wearing a mask for prolonged periods, due to an accumulation of perspiration combined with friction and pressure. In these cases, it is recommended that people continue to wear a mask, but follow a few simple steps to reduce the irritation. 

Cleansing the skin twice a day, and moisturising afterwards, may help in reducing the risk of acne or eczema reactions resulting from mask wearing. It is important not to over-cleanse though, as this can cause the skin to dry out further. When wearing a face mask, particularly for a long period, it’s best to avoid wearing heavy make-up or foundation underneath the mask.