Brian Barton
Face masks have become a common sight due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but they can also be used to combat air pollution, allergies, and infection risks. While masks are beneficial in reducing the spread of viruses, they can cause skin irritation and increase pollution on the skin due to warmth and moisture from breathing and perspiration. This is especially true for those with sensitive skin, who may experience redness, itching, and burning sensations. Additionally, the universal use and improper disposal of single-use masks contribute to plastic water pollution, as they release micro and nanoplastics into the aquatic environment. To limit the negative impacts of mask-wearing, it is important to choose the right type of mask, ensure proper mask disposal, and maintain good skin cleansing practices.
How to limit wearing mask face pollution
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of mask | Choose masks without many colours to reduce potential allergens. |
| Fit of mask | Ensure the mask isn't too tight to minimise friction. |
| Length of use | Avoid wearing a mask for long periods of time. Take it off after a conversation or perspiring. |
| Frequency of use | Take an "air break" after 1-2 hours of consecutive mask-wearing. |
| Disposal of mask | Dispose of masks properly, especially N95 masks. |
| Cleansing | Cleanse your face regularly, especially if wearing a mask. |
| Skin type | If you have sensitive skin, vary the types of masks you use to restrict localised irritations. |
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What You'll Learn
Choose masks that don't irritate your skin
Wearing masks has become a necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it can be a challenge for those with sensitive skin. The warmth and moisture inside the mask, caused by perspiration and exhaled CO2, can aggravate sensitive skin. This can lead to skin irritation, redness, itching, and burning sensations.
Opt for Soft, Natural, and Breathable Fabrics: Choose masks made with soft, natural, and breathable fabrics such as cotton for the inner layer that touches your skin. Avoid synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, and rayon on the inner layer as they are more likely to cause skin irritation and breakouts.
Vary Your Mask Types: Alternating between different types of masks, such as traditional surgical masks, fabric masks with elastic ear loops, or masks that tie at the back of your head, can help reduce localised irritations. Make sure your mask isn't too tight to minimise friction.
Avoid Moist Masks: Do not wear a damp or sweaty mask for extended periods. Change your mask after a conversation or physical activity that causes perspiration. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture, which can irritate your skin.
Regularly Wash and Replace Masks: Wash cloth masks frequently and dispose of surgical masks after each use. Makeup, oil, and other particles can accumulate on masks, and reusing them without proper cleaning can irritate your skin. Follow the washing instructions for each mask, using hot water and fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent.
Choose Fragrance-Free Options: Avoid masks with strong fragrances, perfumes, or synthetic dyes. Opt for masks that do not include "perfume," "parfum," or "fragrance" in the ingredient list to minimise potential skin irritants.
Consider Skin Type-Specific Masks: Different types of masks cater to various skin types. For instance, cream masks are ideal for dry skin, while sheet masks are usually oil-free and suitable for providing water-based hydration.
Remember to also take mask breaks, wash your face gently, and maintain a good skincare routine to help keep your skin healthy and minimise irritation caused by mask-wearing.
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Avoid masks with valves
Masks with valves should be avoided as they do not protect others from infection. Masks with built-in exhalation valves protect the wearer from pollution, pollen, and other environmental assaults, but they do not protect others from getting sick if the wearer has or is a carrier of a virus. Exhalation valves let unfiltered air flow outward, which can help keep the wearer cool and comfortable. However, a virus can escape through the valves with every exhalation, potentially infecting others. Masks with valves can emit exhaled respiratory aerosols, which can release infected respiratory aerosols into the air, even if the wearer is asymptomatic or vaccinated. This can put those around the wearer at greater risk of airborne infections.
KN95 masks with exhaust valves can help with breathability and moisture reduction, but they will still emit exhaled respiratory aerosols. Masks with valves are perfect for outdoor exercise, but they do not stop the spread of viruses. If you have a mask with a valve, you can cover the valves with cloth or tape. However, it is better to use masks without valves, such as a cloth mask with a pocket that holds a filter, or a valveless, medical-grade KN95-certified air pollution mask.
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Dispose of masks properly
The importance of properly disposing of masks cannot be overstated. Improper disposal of masks has serious environmental consequences, contributing to plastic water pollution and threatening aquatic ecosystems.
Firstly, it is crucial to understand that single-use masks are not recyclable. They are made of synthetic fabrics like polypropylene and polyester, which means they cannot be placed in the recycling bin. Instead, they must be thrown in the trash can with the rest of your solid waste. It is also important to note that masks should not be flushed down the toilet or left on the ground. If there is no trash can nearby, hold onto your mask until you find one or get home to throw it away.
Before disposing of your mask, it is recommended to cut or rip off the ear loops. This is to prevent birds and other wildlife from getting caught in the loops if they come across the mask in the trash or the environment. It only takes a moment to do and could save an animal's life.
Once you have removed your mask, dispose of it in an appropriate waste receptacle. If using a cloth mask, remember to clean it regularly with hot water and detergent. It is also good practice to perform hand hygiene after disposing of your mask, using an alcohol-based sanitizer or soap and water.
By following these simple steps, you can help reduce the environmental impact of mask disposal and keep yourself and the planet healthy.
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Use masks with clips
The COVID-19 pandemic has made wearing a mask a part of our daily lives. However, wearing a mask for long periods can cause skin irritation and redness, especially for those with sensitive skin. The warm and moist environment inside the mask, caused by perspiration and exhaled CO2, can increase skin sensitivity and make it more susceptible to irritation from friction and pollution.
To limit the impact of wearing a mask on your skin, it is important to choose the right type of mask and ensure proper usage and maintenance. Here are some tips for using masks with clips to reduce face pollution:
- Opt for masks with adjustable clips: Look for masks that have adjustable, comfortable straps with clips. This allows you to customise the fit and ensure a secure seal. A tight fit is crucial to prevent particles from leaking in or out of the mask. Make sure the mask fits snugly but comfortably around your nose and chin, minimising any gaps that could allow particles to enter or exit.
- Choose masks with a good seal: The seal of the mask is critical to its effectiveness. Look for masks with high-quality sealing techniques that allow the mask to conform comfortably to the contours of your face. This helps create a tight seal, preventing particle leakage and protecting you from inhaling airborne particles. It also ensures that any infected aerosols you breathe out do not escape into the environment.
- Consider masks with directed outflow valves: Masks with directed outflow valves can help prevent moisture build-up from condensation caused by your breath. This is especially important if you plan to wear the mask for extended periods or during outdoor exercise, as it improves breathability and reduces discomfort.
- Maintain good skin care practices: Cleanse your skin gently, especially before and after wearing a mask. Use mild formulas that won't irritate your skin further. Avoid rubbing your skin, as this can inflame the skin barrier. Ensure your skin is clean before putting on a mask to avoid trapping impurities and pollutants, and cleanse your skin after removing the mask to remove any accumulated pollutants and impurities.
- Vary your mask types: To reduce localised irritations, alternate between different types of masks, such as traditional surgical masks, fabric masks with elastic ear loops, or masks that tie at the back of your head. This helps to minimise friction points and gives your skin a break from constant pressure in the same areas.
- Keep your mask dry and fresh: Avoid wearing a damp or moist mask. Change your mask if it becomes moist due to perspiration or extended wear. Follow official recommendations for mask replacement, and consider washing and rotating your masks more frequently to maintain hygiene and reduce skin irritation.
By following these tips and choosing masks with adjustable clips, you can help limit the impact of mask-wearing on your skin and maintain better skin health during this challenging time.
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Wash masks regularly
The COVID-19 pandemic has made wearing a face mask part of our daily lives. However, wearing a mask for long periods can cause skin irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Washing your face mask regularly is essential to maintaining good skin health and hygiene. It helps to remove any accumulated impurities, pollutants, and particles that may have built up on the mask during use. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin, as it can help prevent further irritation.
It is recommended to wash your mask after each use, or at least once a day, to keep it clean and sanitary. This is in line with official guidelines, which suggest washing reusable masks frequently.
When washing your mask, use gentle cleansing methods to avoid damaging the fabric. You can wash your mask by hand with lukewarm water and a mild detergent or soap. Avoid rubbing the fabric together vigorously, as this can create friction and damage the mask's structure. Instead, gently massage the soap into the fabric and then rinse thoroughly with water.
After rinsing, gently squeeze out any excess water and lay the mask flat to air dry. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat may damage the mask's structure or affect its fit.
By regularly washing your face mask, you can help maintain good skin health and ensure that your mask remains effective in protecting you and others.
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Frequently asked questions
If you have sensitive skin, it is important to cleanse your face regularly but gently, preferably in the morning and evening. Avoid rubbing your skin at all costs. Vary the types of masks you use and ensure they are not too tight. Take off your mask after a conversation or perspiring, and wash your mask regularly.
The universal use and improper disposal of single-use face masks are raising serious concerns for their environmental impact, particularly the release of microplastics into the ocean. To limit this impact, avoid using single-use masks and opt for reusable masks instead. Dispose of your masks properly and avoid littering.
Any mask's ability to limit exposure depends on the type of pollutant, the mask itself, and how it’s used. Look for a mask that is certified to filter more than 95% of PM2.5, 0.1µm and 0.3µm and preferably over 99%. Ensure that the mask covers both your nose and chin and has nose foam and wire for a firm and effective seal.
Your mask should fit snugly over your nose and mouth. Avoid touching the mask while you’re wearing it, and wash your hands thoroughly before putting on and after taking off your face mask.
Wearing a mask is not a replacement for other measures to reduce air pollution. Avoid areas with high pollution levels and stay indoors on days when air pollution is high. Practice social distancing, wash your hands often, and avoid touching your face.
