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Wearing a protective mask daily, covering the mouth and nose area when going out in public, has become a legislated necessity in order to protect the population from contracting COVID-19. Unfortunately, this practice has had a detrimental effect on the skin.
Sandton-based dermatologist, Dr Lushen Pillay, says that a skin condition known as maskitis has become very common over recent months and can be easily confused with maskne.
He notes that the symptoms and treatments of each condition are very different, with maskitis presenting as a dry and flaky rash. This rash can spread if left untreated. It is marked by small bumps, redness, inflammation and dry, flaky skin.
“We are seeing that more patients are suffering from maskitis than maskne, and genetic predisposition can be an underlying risk factor for developing the former. If you have a history of asthma, hay fever or eczema, or a positive family history, you’re more likely to develop maskitis,” comments Pillay.
Maskne, on the other hand, says Pillay, often affects those who have a history of acne or oily, blemish-prone skin. However, having said this, maskne can affect anyone.
To read the rest of this article, which was compiled by Karen Ellithorne and which also includes valuable input from practice manager, Lourette du Toit, go to page 44 of the April 2021 issue of the Professional Beauty digital magazine. This issue also includes information on which professional products to use for these two skin conditions. Click here https://issuu.com/professionalbeautysa/docs/pb_sa_april_2021