A lot of countries in South America had very strict rules. Double-mask requirements, mandatory vaccines, stay-at-home days. What they perhaps lacked in access to vaccines, they tried to make up with those stricter rules. They also made deals with China & Russia for their vaccines, in lieu of limited access to Pfizer etc.
Unless I actually have mud or dirt on my face, it only gets cleaned with water in the shower. Dove soap bar for rest. Pure aloe vera (or as close as possible) applied to the face to help with dryness when needed.
Because your friends don't suck