Category: Lifestyle | 2-Minute Read
Maskne and Its Prevention
Hi Everyone!
I hope you are all well and safe!
So...what is maskne?
This term has developed as a result of mask-wearing during this pandemic.
It is an acneic episode or acne breakouts associated with personal protective equipment (PPE) i.e. masks!
A maskne can be caused by trauma from the friction of the mask or even sweating behind the mask and it can be extremely distressing given the fact that our face is very clearly visible on video calls in this new normal!
So how can you stop this from happening?
- Do NOT reuse disposable masks
- Use 100% cotton or silk masks and wash after each wear. More on silk in a future blog! (Comment below to let me know if you are interested!)
- Try and use masks that do not have any metal components such as a wire at the nose as this can cause nickel sensitisation.
- Try not to wash your face too much through the day and if possible consider using a glycolic or salicylic toner to wipe the “masked” skin through the day.
- Do NOT use exfoliating scrubs on your face, only gentle hydrating cleansers.
- Avoid drying products and do not forget to moisturise! Non-comedogenic products are ideal for breakout-prone skin.
ALWAYS use sunscreen including areas covered by the mask, consider non-comedogenic options.
Minimise the use of make-up and step up your skin regime.
All skin products should be applied at least 30 minutes before wearing the mask.Consider using skincare masks that hydrate and are anti-inflammatory when you are at home.
I would also keep certain spot treatment products to hand, so if breakouts do occur, you have a plan! Consider specialist target spot creams that contain salicylic acid and vitamin A.
And a bonus one…….
Do not touch your face without washing your hands first to avoid bringing oil, dirt and bacteria to your face.
These tips will help you reduce your chances of developing mask-associated acne but should you have a breakout, make sure you remove your mask as often as you can to allow your skin to breathe. Click here to read my blog about washing your face the right way and this will also help prevent and manage any breakouts. To find out what ingredients to look for, we also have a blog for this too, which you can read here! We have got you covered!
There have also been suggestions of spraying salicylic acid sprays on the inside of your mask (the side that is in contact with your skin). In theory they may help but majority of your spray will be absorbed by the mask itself!
You do not need to buy specific “maskne” products, that’s a marketing ploy! You just need to use the products that have been proven to work against acne for the past few decades!
If need help knowing what to buy, I always advise you to contact an expert so that you take care of your skin the right way!
So that’s all from me folks!
Have any tips or products worked well for you? Let me know in the comments!
If you found this blog interesting or helpful, please like, share and comment below!
As always,
Prioritise yourselves!
References:
- Teo WL. Diagnostic and management considerations for “maskne” in the era of COVID-19. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Feb;84(2):520-1.
- Skincare for mask-wearers -BRITISH DENTAL JOURNAL | VOLUME 228 NO. 8 | April 24 2020
- Pictures from Unsplash
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