Navigating the Skincare Pandemic: Understanding COVID-19 Related Skin Infections

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on various aspects of our lives, including our skin health. Skincare infections related to COVID-19 have become increasingly prevalent, both as a direct result of the virus and due to the measures taken to prevent its spread. In this article, we will explore the different types of COVID-19 related skin infections, delve into their causes, and discuss preventative measures and treatment options.

COVID-19 and Skin Manifestations

The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, responsible for COVID-19, has been linked to several skin manifestations. These manifestations include, but are not limited to, rashes, urticaria, and vesicular eruptions. While these symptoms are typically mild and self-limiting, some cases may require medical intervention (1).

  1. COVID-19 Associated Rashes: A wide variety of rashes have been reported in COVID-19 patients, ranging from maculopapular eruptions to chilblain-like lesions. These rashes are generally mild, but in some cases, they may be indicative of more severe illness (2).

  2. Urticaria: Urticaria, or hives, has been observed in a small percentage of COVID-19 patients. This manifestation is characterized by red, itchy welts on the skin and is thought to be a result of an immune response to the virus (3).

  3. Vesicular Eruptions: Vesicular eruptions, or blisters, have also been reported in COVID-19 patients. These eruptions are typically found on the trunk and limbs and are believed to be caused by the virus's direct effects on the skin (4).

COVID-19 Prevention Measures and Skin Infections

The preventive measures implemented to curb the spread of COVID-19 have inadvertently led to an increase in certain skin conditions. These include:

  1. Hand Dermatitis: Frequent handwashing and the use of hand sanitizers have resulted in an increase in cases of hand dermatitis, characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin (5).

  2. Maskne: The prolonged use of face masks has given rise to a new skin condition called maskne (mask-related acne), caused by increased humidity, friction, and bacterial buildup under the mask (6).

Preventing and Treating COVID-19 Related Skin Infections

To manage COVID-19 related skin infections, it's essential to take preventive measures and seek appropriate treatment if necessary.

  1. Hand Dermatitis Prevention and Treatment: To prevent hand dermatitis, it's crucial to moisturize your hands regularly and use gentle, fragrance-free soaps. If hand dermatitis develops, over-the-counter corticosteroid creams can help alleviate symptoms, but consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist or worsen (7).

  2. Maskne Prevention and Treatment: To prevent maskne, ensure your face mask is clean and fits well without causing excessive friction. Incorporate gentle, non-comedogenic skincare products into your routine, and avoid heavy makeup. If maskne develops, consult a dermatologist for appropriate treatment options, which may include topical retinoids or benzoyl peroxide (8).

  3. COVID-19 Associated Skin Manifestations: In the case of rashes, urticaria, or vesicular eruptions related to COVID-19, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options may vary depending on the specific skin manifestation and the severity of the condition (9).

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in various skin infections, both as a direct result of the virus and due to the preventive measures implemented. By understanding the different types of COVID-19 related skin infections and taking appropriate preventive measures, we can better manage our skin health during these unprecedented times. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist if you experience any persistent or worsening skin conditions, as proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial for maintaining overall skin health.

References:

  1. Galván Casas, C., Català, A., Carretero Hernández, G., Rodríguez-Jiménez, P., Fernández Nieto, D., Rodríguez-Villa Lario, A., ... & García-Doval, I. (2020). Classification of the cutaneous manifestations of COVID-19: a rapid prospective nationwide consensus study in Spain with 375 cases. The British Journal of Dermatology, 183(1), 71-77.

  2. Suchonwanit, P., Leerunyakul, K., & Kositkuljorn, C. (2020). Cutaneous manifestations in COVID-19: Lessons learned from current evidence. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 83(1), e57-e60.

  3. Marzano, A. V., Genovese, G., Fabbrocini, G., Pigatto, P., Monfrecola, G., Piraccini, B. M., ... & Gaspari, V. (2020). Varicella-like exanthem as a specific COVID-19–associated skin manifestation: Multicenter case series of 22 patients. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 83(1), 280-285.

  4. Freeman, E. E., McMahon, D. E., Lipoff, J. B., Rosenbach, M., Kovarik, C., Desai, S. R., ... & Harp, J. (2020). The spectrum of COVID-19-associated dermatologic manifestations: An international registry of 716 patients from 31 countries. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 83(4), 1118-1129.

  5. Beiu, C., Mihai, M., Popa, L., Cima, L., & Popescu, M. N. (2020). Frequent hand washing for COVID-19 prevention can cause hand dermatitis: Management tips. Cureus, 12(4), e7506.

  6. Teo, W. L. (2020). Diagnostic and management considerations for "maskne" in the era of COVID-19. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 84(2), 520-521.

  7. Singh, M., Pawar, M., Bothra, A., Choudhary, N., & Bajpai, M. (2020). Hand hygiene during COVID-19: A note on hand dermatitis. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 19(12), 3172-3173.

  8. Kwatra, S. G., Sweren, R. J., & Grossberg, A. L. (2020). Dermatologic manifestations and complications of COVID-19. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 21(6), 747-757.

  9. Darlenski, R., & Tsankov, N. (2020). COVID-19 pandemic and the skin: What should dermatologists know? Clinics in Dermatology, 38(6), 785-787.

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