Marina Peredo, M.D. – a dermatologist – said mask acne is more common, but a candida infection is also possible.
Both the skin and saliva can contain parasitic fungi of the genus Candida, a type of yeast that is normally present in the body, the medical expert said.
While candida typically exists without causing a problem, a specific species – Candida albicans – can cause an infection if it grows out of control, notes the Centers for Disease Control.
“Anyone who has worn a mask in the summertime knows that it can get hot under there. And masks offer the perfect conditions for overgrowth,” said Lucy Chen, M.D., a dermatologist.
Chen said while a face mask cannot be the sole cause of a skin infection, the combination of heat, humidity and a tight mask could worsen underlying conditions that prompt a fungal or bacterial infection.
Interestingly, dermatologist Susan Massick said all of us have yeast on our skin. A yeast infection could occur in the right setting – such as a warm, moist environment – but is often related to another factors like diabetes, a compromised immune system, a recent course of antibiotics and poor hygiene that allows the yeast to grow unchecked.
If wearing your mask contributes to skin problems, you will want to take some extra precautions. Peredo said if you’re wearing a mask, you’re also covering half your face. Don’t put makeup and lipstick on. It is better to wear a mask over clean skin, she said.
But that doesn’t mean that you cannot wear makeup at all. You will have to put in a bit more time and effort to touch up your mask area at the end of the day, the dermatologist said.
When you remove your mask, apply or minimize what you’re using to your lower face. Wash your cloth mask regularly – after each use – and replace your surgical mask once it is damp or sweaty.
It is very important to wash your cloth mask regularly, in a gentle detergent that is less likely to irritate the skin. Thus, avoid soaps that have harsh chemicals or strong fragrances, as these are likely to set off a reaction that could make you more prone to bigger health issues.
Try using cotton masks, cleaning them properly and having an extra on you in case it gets damp and sweaty.
“Cotton masks are also soft to the skin, are not rough or itchy, and are usually comfortable when breathing,” Massick explained.
The most important thing you can do when it comes to the conditions of your skin is to pay attention to how your skin is reacting to wearing a mask.
Among the warning signs include small raised blisters, pustules (small collections of pus in the top layer of skin or beneath it, frequently forms in sweat glands or hair follicles), rash, soreness and chaffing. It is important to see a board-certified dermatologist immediately when you start to see the signs, as it can worsen very quickly.
Ultimately, a few tweaks to your habits will help keep your skin and mouth looking and feeling healthy.
Ana Williams is the health columnist for The Graham Star.