Changes in skin wrinkles and pores due to long-term mask wear

초록

Background The spread of COVID-19 has made mask wear essential. Expecting that long-term mask wear would change the characteristics of skin, this study investigated changes in skin wrinkles and pores caused by long-term mask wear and whether or not use of moisturizers has an effect on any changes. Materials and methods The study participants were 20 women who were instructed to wear a mask for at least 6 hours a day for 4 weeks. Measurements of skin wrinkles and pores were obtained before and after the 4 weeks of mask wear. The effects of application of a moisturizer were assessed by applying moisturizer within the mask-wearing area. They completed a questionnaire about skin changes at the end of the study period. Results After wearing the mask for 4 weeks, there was a significant increase in the skin wrinkles and pores; both variables decreased significantly in skin areas where a moisturizer had been applied. The results of the questionnaire-based survey indicated the study participants considered that long-term wearing of a mask had affected their skin. Conclusion Wearing a mask for extended periods increases skin wrinkles and pores and using a moisturizer when wearing the mask helps to reduce this problem.

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