Tips for Preventing Skin Damage from PPE Use

‍

Updated November 04, 2024

‍

The primary responsibility of healthcare professionals revolves around safeguarding the well-being of their patients. However, in our relentless pursuit of providing exceptional care, they often overlook the importance of protecting ourselves from potential hazards. The utilization of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has become an integral part of our daily routine, shielding us from exposure to infectious agents, bodily fluids, and other occupational risks.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further underscored the criticality of PPE and protective clothing not only during times of crisis but also as a proactive measure to ensure the safety of healthcare workers. Donning masks, gowns, gloves, and face shields has become the norm, a testament to healthcare professionals’ unwavering commitment to mitigating the spread of contagious diseases.

However, while PPE can provide adequate protection by serving as a crucial line of defence against occupational hazards in healthcare, its prolonged use can inadvertently lead to a range of skin-related issues. So, in this article, we will explore the potential skin damage caused by PPE, discuss preventive measures, and provide practical strategies for maintaining optimal skin health while upholding the highest standards of safety.

What is PPE?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to the specialized clothing, gear, and devices worn by healthcare professionals to minimize exposure to various hazards in the workplace. These protective barriers are designed to prevent the transmission of infectious agents, shield against hazardous substances, and mitigate the risks of injury or illness.

PPE encompasses a wide range of items or apparatus specifically designed to protect its wearer, including:

• Face masks or respirators for respiratory protection
• Safety glasses or goggles or face shields for eye protection
• Gloves for hand protection
• Gowns or coveralls
• Head coverings or caps
• Safety boots, foot coverings, shoe covers or any protective footwear for foot protection

How Can PPE Use Damage the Skin?

The very nature of PPE, designed to create a barrier between the wearer and potential contaminants, can inadvertently contribute to skin-related complications. Several factors play a role in this phenomenon:

• Poor Air Permeability: Certain PPE materials, such as non-breathable fabrics, can restrict air circulation and trap moisture against the skin, leading to a humid environment that fosters bacterial growth and skin irritation.
• Impaired Circulation: The tight fit and pressure exerted by PPE components like masks, goggles, and gloves can impede blood flow, potentially causing discomfort, swelling, and even skin discolouration.
• Friction and Pressure: Prolonged wear of PPE can result in friction and pressure points, particularly in areas where the equipment comes into direct contact with the skin. This can lead to the development of blisters, abrasions, and even pressure injuries.
• Occlusion: Covering large areas of the skin with PPE can trap sweat and moisture, potentially causing maceration (excessive softening of the skin) and increasing the risk of skin breakdown.

Types of Skin Damage Caused by PPE Use

The prolonged and improper use of PPE can manifest in various forms of skin damage, each with its unique challenges and implications. Let’s explore some of the most common skin-related issues:

Device-Related Pressure Injuries

The constant pressure exerted by PPE components, such as masks, goggles, and face shields, can lead to the development of pressure injuries, including blisters and ulcers. These injuries can range from mild redness and discolouration to more severe skin breakdown and tissue damage.

Acne

The occlusive nature of PPE, coupled with increased sweating and bacterial growth, can contribute to the development of acne, particularly in areas where the equipment comes into direct contact with the skin, such as the face and neck. With mask being mandatory during the peak of the pandemic, mask-related acne became prevalent in healthcare workers and civilians alike, leading to the recognition of “maskne” as a new variant of acne mechanica brought by regular mask use.

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to certain materials used in PPE, such as latex or specific dyes or chemicals. These reactions can manifest as rashes, hives, or even more severe symptoms, like difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.

Skin Infection and Irritation

The warm, moist environment created by PPE can provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, potentially leading to skin infections or irritations, such as folliculitis, intertrigo, or fungal infections.

Preventing Skin Damage from PPE Use Through an Intact Skin Barrier

While the use of PPE is essential for our safety, it is equally crucial to prioritize the health and integrity of our skin. By implementing proactive measures and fostering a culture of self-care, we can mitigate the risk of skin-related complications. Follow the safety guidelines set by your organization and the government and implement these effective strategies for maintaining an intact skin barrier:

• Proper Fitting and Adjustment: Routine inspection of PPE being used shouldn’t be limited to just ensuring that they’re in good condition, but their proper fit and appropriate adjustment must also be observed. Ill-fitting equipment can create pressure points and friction, increasing the likelihood of skin damage.
• Skin Care Routine: Establishing a consistent skin care routine is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. This may include cleansing, moisturizing, and applying barrier creams or ointments to protect against friction, moisture, and potential irritants.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can contribute to overall skin health and promote faster healing in case of skin damage.
• Frequent Breaks and Rotation: Taking regular breaks from PPE use and rotating equipment can alleviate pressure and allow the skin to breathe, reducing the risk of skin breakdown and irritation.
• Proper Hygiene and Disinfection: Adhering to strict hygiene protocols and properly disinfecting PPE components can help mitigate the risk of skin infections and irritations caused by bacterial or fungal growth.
• Education and Training: Providing comprehensive education and training on the proper use, care, and maintenance of PPE can empower healthcare workers to make informed decisions and adopt best practices for skin protection.

Treating PPE Use-Related Skin Injuries

Despite one’s best efforts, skin injuries may still occur due to prolonged PPE use. In such cases, prompt and appropriate treatment is crucial to prevent further complications and promote healing. Here are some recommended approaches:

• Seek Medical Attention: If you experience severe skin damage, such as deep ulcers or signs of infection, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Healthcare professionals can assess the extent of the injury and provide appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, wound care, or referral to a dermatologist or wound care specialist.
• Proper Wound Care: For minor skin injuries, such as blisters or abrasions, proper wound care is essential. This may involve cleaning the affected area, applying topical antiseptics or antimicrobial dressings, and protecting the wound from further irritation or contamination.
• Moisturization and Barrier Creams: Regularly moisturizing the skin and using barrier creams or ointments can help protect against further damage and promote healing. Look for products specifically formulated for sensitive or compromised skin.
• Temporary PPE Adjustment or Substitution: In some cases, it may be necessary to temporarily adjust or substitute certain PPE components to alleviate pressure or friction on the affected area, allowing for proper healing.
• Monitoring and Follow-Up: Closely monitoring the progress of skin injuries and adhering to follow-up appointments or treatment plans is crucial for ensuring proper healing and preventing recurrence or complications.

Explore Health and Self-Care Products at the Caring Support Marketplace

The importance of PPE in safeguarding the health and well-being of healthcare workers cannot be overstated. However, it’s equally crucial to prioritize your own self-care and take proactive measures to protect your skin from the potential adverse effects of prolonged PPE use.

At Caring Support, we understand the unique challenges faced by healthcare professionals, and we are committed to providing you with the resources and products you need to prioritize your well-being. Our Marketplace offers a carefully curated selection of high-quality health and self-care products, designed to support your journey towards optimal skin health and overall wellness.

Whether you’re seeking barrier creams and moisturizers to protect your skin from the adverse effects of PPE use, or specialized wound care solutions to promote healing and prevent complications, our Marketplace has got you covered. We meticulously vet each product, ensuring that you have access to the best options available.

Visit the Caring Support Marketplace today and explore our curated selection of health and self-care products. Invest in your self-care journey and experience the Caring Support difference.

Reference

Zhou NY, Yang L, Dong LY, Li Y, An XJ, Yang J, Yang L, Huang CZ, Tao J. Prevention and Treatment of Skin Damage Caused by Personal Protective Equipment: Experience of the First-Line Clinicians Treating 2019-nCoV Infection. Int J Dermatol Venereol. 2020 Mar 13:10.1097/JD9.0000000000000085. doi: 10.1097/JD9.0000000000000085. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 34192087; PMCID: PMC7147274.