Here’s our step-by-step guide to reducing the risk of mask-induced soreness.
If you’re struggling with pressure sores, rashes and irritated skin from wearing a face mask for long periods of time, whether you're wearing medical PPE or cloth masks during your daily routine, these steps can help soothe your skin.
- Make sure your mask fits properly and that you’re using it correctly, so it gives the best possible protection.
- Keep skin well-hydrated to boost its resilience as it is being subjected to pressure from the masks; apply unscented emollients regularly at home and throughout the day at work.
- Apply an anhydrous barrier balm (like Skin Salvation) to sore areas at least 30 minutes before putting on your mask.
- Remove the mask every two hours (away from patients, if you're a healthcare professional), and give your skin time to recover.
- Keep skin clean with an unscented wash or soap; wash your face gently after removing the mask.
- Pat your face dry with clean tissues or paper towels - don’t rub!
- Apply oil-based ointment last thing at night to clean skin, especially on areas subjected to pressure from the mask.
- If you’re a member of the public, and are not wearing your mask at work, remove it as soon as you safely can.
Why is Skin Salvation a good choice as a barrier balm?
- Skin Salvation is an oil-based ointment, so it’s unlikely to sting even very sore, raw or broken skin.
- The beeswax forms a semi-occlusive protective barrier over broken or fragile skin.
- This barrier acts as if it were the skin’s own barrier function, locking moisture in and keeping irritants out.
- It’s rich in the essential fatty acids that skin needs for its natural cycle of regeneration and repair.
- It is unscented and free from the synthetic ingredients that can aggravate sensitive or inflamed skin.
- Unlike paraffin-based emollients, it isn’t flammable!
Recommended products to reduce mask soreness
Balmonds Skin Salvation
with hemp and beeswax
Balmonds Natural Shampoo & Body Wash
with calendula & chamomile