Short-term skin reactions following use of N95 respirators and medical masks.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, cases of adverse skin reactions related to the wearing of masks have been observed.

Objectives

To analyze the short-term effects of N95 respirators and medical masks, respectively, on skin physiological properties and to report adverse skin reactions caused by the protective equipment.

Methods

This study used a randomized crossover design with repeated measurements. Twenty healthy Chinese volunteers were recruited. Skin parameters were measured on areas covered by the respective masks and on uncovered skin 2 and 4 hours after donning, and 0.5 and 1 hour after removing the masks, including skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema, pH, and sebum secretion. Adverse reactions were clinically assessed, a

SUBMITTER: Hua W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7272965 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature