Instead of protecting the face, masks that are rarely washed or changed can trigger acne growth or what is now known as ' mask ' (mask acne).



So, how long is the maximum time for medical masks and cloths to be safe to use continuously before changing a new mask, especially for facial skin types that are sensitive to acne?

"The inside of the mask will be a place for saliva splashing due to talking, coughing, sneezing, sweat piles, facial oil, and dust. So that this will cause humidity to increase and facilitate the growth of acne-causing bacteria," explained a dermatologist and genitalia Dr. dr I Gusti Nyoman. Darmaputra, SpKK (K), FINSDV, FAADV from DNI Skin Center on detikcom, Thursday (20/5/2021).


According to Dr. Darma, every use of a medical mask should last 8 to 10 hours. While masks made of cloth can be used within 4 to 6 hours.

Especially for cloth masks, after use, they must be washed clean using detergent. After that, the mask must be dried in the sun.

Also read: Horrified! This Is The Appearance Of The Number Of Microbes If You Don't Change The Mask For More Than 6 Hours


"If you want to use a cloth mask, choose one made from cotton. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using 2 layers of 100 percent cotton cloth," explained Dr. Darma.

He added, the type of mask, either medical or cloth masks, did not affect the ease of acne growth on facial skin. However, regardless of the type, cleanliness of the mask surface must be maintained to avoid exposure to acne-causing bacteria.

"For surgical masks, it is not a problem in the ingredients that cause acne, but the most important thing is to replace masks routinely and does not use them for more than 10 hours," concluded Dr. Darma.