Evaluation of Ocular Surface and Dry Eye Symptoms in Face Mask Users

This study aimed to investigate the ocular surface and symptoms of dry eye in individuals who wear face masks on a daily basis.

This prospective study evaluated 52 right eyes of 52 subjects (26 men, 26 women) who routinely wore face masks for at least 8 hrs a day. Mean age was 30.48±6.01 years. All patients were assessed with Schirmer-1 test, Tear Break-up Time (TBUT), Oxford staining grade, and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) at initial clinical admission (T1), after 8 hrs of face mask use (T2), and after 15 days of greater than 8 hrs daily wear of face masks with the open portions of the mask taped down (T3).

Mean TBUT was 13.03±2.18 seconds(s) at T1, 9.12±1.85 sec at T2, and 12.78±2.05 sec at T3. Mean Schirmer-1 test results were 16.87±3.01 mm at T1, 12.97±2.74 mm at T2, and 17.01±2.95 mm at T3. There was a significant difference between T1 and T2, and between T2 and T3 in TBUT (P<0.001), Schirmer-1 results (P<0.001), and Oxford staining grade (P=0.030, P=0.003, respectively). There was a significant difference between all examination times in OSDI score (P<0.001).

Improper use of face masks may cause increased ocular irritation and dry eye symptoms. Taping down the upper portion of the face mask blocks exhaled air from directly entering the eyes, preventing potential symptoms of dry eye.