Constant usage of face masks can modify cutaneous facial microenvironment and may trigger dermatoses. 

The aim of a recent study published in Dermatologic Therapy was to evaluate mask-related rosacea (mask rosacea) and acne (maskne) in untreated patients during lockdown.

This was amulti-center, real-life, telemedical and observational prospective study, that enrolled stable, untreated acne and rosacea patients who wore masks during lockdown, for at least 6 hours/day. Patients underwent two teledermatological consultations, at baseline and after 6 weeks. 

Overall, 66 patients, 30 with acne and 36 patients with rosacea, were enrolled. After six weeks of mask and quarantine, patients with acne elicited an increased Global Acne Grading Scale (GAGS) score in mask-related areas. Similarly, patients with rosacea displayed a worsening in both, physician and patient reported outcomes. In addition, patients reported a statistically significant decrease in their quality of life.

From the findings, it was inferred that regular mask usage trigger acne and rosacea flares. 

Source: Dermatologic Therapy. 2021 Mar;34(2):e14848. doi: 10.1111/dth.14848.