Wearing face masks is essential to combatting the spread of SARS-CoV-2, but prolonged wear has increased the prevalence of dry eye disease. The likely cause is changing airflow dynamics. Face masks reduce the outward spread of air and direct it upward toward the eyes. As this air stream travels over the corneal surface, it accelerates tear film evaporation, drying the ocular surface and causing discomfort .Additionally, increased face touching and eye rubbing as reactions to an ill-fitting mask can lead to infection, an allergic response, and further dysregulation of the tear film.

Groups at particularly high risk for MADE include contact lens wearers, postmenopausal women, and individuals with known connective tissue or autoimmune diseases. Other groups at risk include individuals in professions that require prolonged mask wear and/or long hours of digital device use.