Preventive skin care:
· Wash face with only cool to lukewarm water and mild unscented skin cleansers such as Cetaphil cleanser or castile soap etc (avoid dyes, fragrances, exfoliating scrubs, etc.)
· Moisturize around the clock with a bland (unscented, no salicylate, no UV) moisturizer, i.e. Eucerin, Cerave
· Do not use irritating topical medications such as retinol, salicylic acid, glycolic acid
· Avoid use of make-up or other cosmetics (these can break down with expired moisture and become irritating)
· Shave facial hair with clean new sharp blades and use calming shave products without scents
Preventive mask use:
· Remove mask as allowed to relieve contact (e.g. when eating or using bathroom)
· Rotate surgical/procedure masks if possible (ear loops vs ties, etc.). Do not rotate N95 respirators unless fitted to multiple types
· Place thin gauze under surgical/procedure masks (not N95 respirators), especially at pressure points.
· Use buttons or paperclips to hold loops of surgical/procedure masks to alleviate pressure on ears.
Advanced prevention when needed:
· Apply barrier ointment Rub thoroughly into skin before donning mask with zinc oxide or mineral oil such as A&D ointment or Cavilon or Aquaphor ointment to face prior to mask use. .
· Apply thin silicone protective sheets/tape or moleskin to pressure points. If used with N95 must perform seal check.