Recent information from Chinese medics and health professionals who have been in prolonged contact with potential and COVID-19 positive patients, working the front lines of the virus, confirm that 97% of those surveyed have experienced severe skin irritation or skin damage. This issue is prevalent not only to medical professionals but to anyone whose daily duties require the use of masks, face shields or respirators, as well as to the increased use of disinfectants and hand sanitisers.
Dermatological issues observed in studies
Questionnaires and online surveys, completed by medical personnel from January to February 2020 have revealed that during COVID-19, medical personnel whose duties require increased use of protective equipment are exposed to various dermatological risks. The prolonged safety measures have led to changes in the condition of the skin where the skin comes in direct contact with masks and respirators for nearly all medical professionals.
The most frequently affected areas included: bridge of the nose, arms, cheeks and forehead. In 70% of the cases, the early complications included skin dryness, as well as a sense of stiffness and pulling. In 62% of the cases, further skin flaking or peeling was observed. More substantial skin damage was experienced by those health workers who wore medical devices such as safety goggles or N95 masks for extended periods. However, wearing extended face shields was not a significant risk factor for skin damage. Exacerbation of pre-existing chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis or atopic dermatitis was observed.
How to take care of skin during COVID-19
Dermatological risks during COVID-19 relate directly to the risk of skin irritation caused by prolonged wear and use of protective equipment. Increased use of disinfectants and hand sanitisers not only weakens immunity but may lead to inflammation of the skin. Similarly, excessive washing of skin may contribute to the peeling of the skin. Omitting the use of skin moisturisers can contribute to the cracking of the skin as well as to the development of contact allergies.
Considering all the potential risks, both health care professionals and all users of protective equipment should pay special attention and care to the irritated areas of the skin, strengthening or renewing the skin’s protective barrier, using the necessary skin moisturisers.
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