40758 Internet Searches for “Maskne” During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Call to Action

Background: With increased mask usage during the COVID-19 pandemic, many patients noticed an increase of acne mechanica and the popular term “maskne” was born. Patients turned to the internet to obtain health information related to the pandemic, including “maskne”. Given that internet searches can be a proxy for population interests, we analyzed trends in internet searches for “maskne” in order to investigate patients’ information-seeking behavior and be adequately prepared to address patients’ concerns. The term “maskne” was analyzed using Google Trends from April 1st, 2020 through Nov 30th, 2021 in the United States. Google Trends creates a relative search volume (RSV), which ranges from 0 (no searches) to 100 (maximum searches). Statistical analysis of the RSV for each time period was performed to assess for significance. Our results revealed that changes in RSV for “maskne” corresponded to Center for Disease Control (CDC) mask recommendations. When the CDC ended their mask recommendations for vaccinated individuals, we noted a statistically significant decrease in “maskne” searches (P<.05) compared to the previous time periods. Our results suggest that patients’ information-seeking behaviors can change following contemporary events, especially as they relate to health. It is important for dermatologists to be cognizant of the information that patients seek online so that they may better prepared to educate. The pandemic has highlighted how quickly new health concerns can rise to importance, including new skin problems. Dermatologists should be prepared to advise patients on skincare with masks or should consider having patient-friendly educational materials readily available.