COVID-19 related masks increase severity of both acne (maskne) and rosacea (mask rosacea): Multi-center, real-life, telemedical, and observational prospective study

Giovanni Damiani, Laura C. Gironi, Ayman Grada, Khalaf Kridin, Renata Finelli, Alessandra Buja, Nicola L. Bragazzi, Paolo D.M. Pigatto, Paola Savoia

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Masks are essential for COVID-19 prevention, but recently they were suggested to modify cutaneous facial microenvironment and trigger facial dermatoses. To evaluate mask-related rosacea and acne (maskne) in untreated patients during lockdown. In this multi-center, real-life, observational prospective study, we enrolled stable, untreated acne and rosacea patients that wore masks during lockdown at least 6 h/day. They underwent two teledermatological consultations, at the baseline and after 6 weeks. Clinical, pharmacological, and psychological data were recorded. A total 66 patients, 30 (median age: 34.0 [30.25-29.75] yoa) with acne and 36 patients (median age: 48 [43-54] years) with rosacea, were enrolled in this study. After 6 weeks of mask and quarantine, patients with acne displayed an increased Global Acne Grading Scale (GAGS) score in mask-related areas (P <.0001). Likewise, after 6 weeks of mask and quarantine, patients with rosacea displayed a worsen in both physican (P <.0001) and patient (P <.0001) reported outcomes. Remarkably, patients reported also a statistically significant decrease in their quality of life (P <.0001). Masks appear to trigger both acne and rosacea flares. Additional studies are needed to generate evidence and inform clinical decision-making.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere14848
JournalDermatologic Therapy
Volume34
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Mar 2021
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Keywords

  • COVID-19
  • acne due to masks
  • mask rosacea
  • maskne
  • pandemics
  • rosacea due to masks

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Dermatology

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