What’s causing rosacea, the redness around my nose, mouth?

If the skin around your nose and mouth has become red or developed pimple-like bumps, your face mask could be to blame. In my Miami dermatology practice, we are seeing an increase in rosacea-like symptoms caused by face coverings.

Learn how to spot rosacea symptoms and what you can do to treat and prevent them.

WHAT DOES ROSACEA LOOK LIKE?

True rosacea can present in several ways, as there are four sub-types of this common skin condition. However, the most common symptoms that we are seeing due to mask-wearing are red pimples on your nose and redness around your nose and mouth. These symptoms can be caused by the friction of the mask rubbing against your skin, as well as preservatives found in most disposable masks.

HOW TO TREAT MASK-INDUCED REDNESS

To treat redness and bumps caused by your face mask, follow these steps:

Avoid disposable paper masks. These contain preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin.

Wash cloth masks daily. Look for cotton or silk masks to minimize skin irritation.

Use an antibacterial spray such as Element 47, which contains silver, to help kill the bacteria that builds up on the side of your mask.

Apply a soothing oil like PAOOR Argan Oil, which contains soothing and calming lipids to reduce redness and inflammation.

Use moisturizers that contain soothing ingredients like niacinamide,

AAAAAargan oil, chamomile, colloidal oatmeal, licorice extract or feverfew.

If your symptoms have not improved after following the five steps above, talk to your doctor about prescription treatment options. Topical minocycline, topical ivermectin or topical metronidazole can all be appropriate treatment options, though all require a prescription so you will need to see your doctor. Severe cases may be treated with an oral antibiotic such as Seysara.

BOTTOM LINE

Face masks, especially the disposable paper masks, can cause skin irritation and redness. If you are unable to treat these rosacea-like symptoms yourself using the tips above, contact your doctor for prescription treatment options.

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