Research Roundup

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of masks for infection control was common around the world.

Following the publication of several cross-sectional studies, a direct link has been shown between the use of facial masks and various facial dermatoses. To carry out this study, the authors carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis of all the published studies which were conducted to evaluate this association, as well as the possible risk factors for facial dermatoses.

The authors searched sites such as MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register for observational studies. They found a total of 37 studies with a total of 29557 participants.

The results showed that there was a prevalence of facial dermatoses in 55% of the participants.

Symptoms that were very commonly reported were acne, facial dermatitis, itch and pressure injuries. The duration of mask-wearing was the most significant risk factor for facial dermatoses development.

In conclusion, the authors determined that facial dermatoses linked with mask wear are extremely common. There was also an association with the duration of use. Correct and personalised treatment is important to improve results for these affected patients.