[Contact dermatitis caused by elastic bands from surgical mask].

Preventive measures including mask wearing are crucial in slowing the transmission of COVID-19 disease. However, prolonged wearing of protective masks can easily generate excessive sweating, moisture and friction. Closed and warm environments heighten the skin's permeability and sensitivity to physical or chemical irritants, leading to chronic cumulative irritant contact dermatitis or, rarely, even allergic contact dermatitis. Although not representing a life-threatening condition, allergic contact dermatitis create emotional discomfort due to the involvement of evident body areas. To minimize the skin breakdown, adherence to standards on wearing protective and safe equipments and avoidance of overprotection should be performed.