The beginning of the year 2020 introduced us to a kind of life we had never dreamt of before and had only seen in sci-fi movies or read in books belonging to the genre of fantasy. We stayed mostly at home and also learnt to practise hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, distancing and wearing a mask as a part of Covid appropriate behaviour. It has indeed become a necessity ever since offices and schools have opened up and trade has started picking up pace. 

 The temperature rising higher and higher every day increases the skin problems associated with summers, such as sweat, rashes, dull skin and dry patches of skin.

Why should we wear a mask as a precaution against COVID- 19?

The culture of wearing a mask was still prevalent even before the onset of the novel coronavirus pandemic among certain communities of people. In some places, it used to be worn as a symbol of style while in some other places it was worn due to being sick.

However, it is more widespread now- ever since the COVID-19 pandemic – than it was ever before. In some countries, wearing a mask is mandatory when out in public, while some other countries have relaxed the restriction a bit and have made wearing a mask mandatory only in crowded places.

Why is wearing a mask so important in this era of the pandemic? Read on to know more.

• Reduces the transmission of the virus- A mask if worn correctly, covering the nose and the mouth properly, can be extremely helpful in reducing the transmission of the COVID-19 virus and other disease-causing agents that spread via droplets. for example common flu, SARS, hand foot and mouth disease, etc. 
• It is a hygienic practice- Sometimes droplets of saliva, invisible to the naked eye, come out of our mouth while talking, coughing and sneezing. This droplet contains several germs. To prevent the spread of those, wearing a mask is a hygienic practice when interacting with others.
• Protection against getting sick- The spread of germs and microorganisms results in others contracting illnesses which could have been very well avoided if a mask was worn at all times. A mask acts as a shield against these germs and wearing it can be considered an investment against falling sick.

Helps keep away allergens like dust, pollens and other pollutants. 

Problems associated with wearing a mask in summer

Wearing a mask can be difficult for some people during summer. Below are some problems (although not very common) that people may face while wearing a mask during the months of summer.

• Mascne– ‘ Mascne’ or mask acne is a condition in which wearing a mask for prolonged periods increases the occurrence of breakouts due to the friction of the mask fabric against the skin and accumulation of sweat and oil, leading to the formation of acne-causing bacteria. outside humid climate and accumulation of vapours within mask aggravates this problem further.
• Sweat– A particular area of the face being enclosed by a tight-fitting mask for long periods and the humidity are contributing factors to excessive sweating and discomfort associated with it. Wearing an extremely tight mask only aggravates the situation.
• Rashes– a common consequence of wearing tight-fitting clothing items in summer. Certain people are allergic to components of the mask-like its thread, nose nib and clips.
• Suffocating sensation– An ill-fitting mask when teamed with the scorching heat of the sun, gives rise to the sensation of suffocation.
• Overheating– Masks being made of several layers of fabric, it becomes difficult for the sweat accumulated in that particular area to evaporate and cool down the skin. This leads to overheating of the face.
• Itching– wearing masks for a long time may alter your skin pH due to humidity and sweat build-up and may cause itching.

Here is the solution!

Do not ditch the mask, consider the following ways to alleviate the discomfort of wearing a mask in summer-

• Clean your face 2-3 times with a gentle cleanser.
• Apply moisturiser (non-comedogenic) before wearing your mask.
• Apply sunscreen if you are going outside (non-comedogenic) before wearing your mask.
• Formulate a skincare regime according to the needs of your skin during the summertime.
• Apply ice on irritated areas of your skin. And seek dermatologist advice if any lesion appears.

Wear cotton masks or put a cotton mask beneath the outer mask while double masking.

Tips to wear a mask correctly

Below is a list of factors which must be considered to ensure that you are wearing your mask properly.

• If it is a single-use mask, discard it after wearing it once.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before putting up the mask and after discarding your mask.
• Reusable masks should be washed with a laundry disinfectant and properly dried before further use.
• Refrain from touching your mask while you are wearing it.
• Your mask should not be too loose or too tight. It should fit you snuggly.
• The mask should cover your mouth and nose properly.
• Do not use a mask if it is wet or dirty.

Other ways to practice COVID- 19 precautions

Other than wearing a mask, there are several other measures which can be adopted to prevent the transmission of COVID- the 19 viruses. They are:

• Maintain distancing when out in public places.
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and clean water or use hand sanitisers.
• Isolate yourself if down with suspected symptoms of COVID- 19 until further investigations are made.
• Follow government guidelines issued regarding the COVID- 19 pandemic.

Wearing a mask during the humid months of summer can be uncomfortable. But to ensure protection against the COVID- 19 virus we must follow this extremely important step. By wearing the mask correctly, you may reduce the associated discomfort. 

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.