Study of Clinical Characteristics and Aetiological Factors of Mask-Induced Acn

Abstract

Background: Mask induced acne "Maskne" is a term that emerged after COVID pandemic in 2020. It was obligatory to health care workers and non-health care workers to wear protective masks for long periods of time. Aim of the study: the study aim was to determine clinical characteristics and possible aetiological factors of mask-induced acne. Patients and methods: A cross sectional observational study was carried out on 30 patients having Maskne and 10 age and sex matched healthy control conducted in December 2021 to June 2022. All patients were subjected to full history taking, clinical examination, and samples were taken for microbiological examination. Results: Most patients (63.3%) had mild acne. No significant association was found between acne severity score and the type, color, and weight of masks (p>0.05). Study results showed more growths of bacteria isolated from the masked area than nonmasked areas and more than that found in control group. Conclusion: It was found that prolonged mask use can lead to the new onset of acne and worsening of the previous acne.