In what must be one of the most awkward-sounding acronyms of all time, "maskne" or "masking acne" is a term that has been haunting Google search trends in recent months. It refers to the breakouts that people have been seeing on their skin as a result of the new regulation of wearing a face mask when we are in public places.
Maskne is usually caused as a result of the environment created by the regular use of such face masks, for example, a combination of sweat, the balance of the microbiome is disturbed and the reproduction of bacteria and pores are blocked, which can lead to breakouts.
What does the use of a mask do to our skin?
When you wear a mask, friction is created due to the pressure, stretching, and rubbing of the material. It is this friction between the material and the skin that can cause irritation and lead to breakouts on the lower part of the face.
As the skin is blocked and closed to the air, mixed with our breath and bacteria from our mouth, the skin can become inflamed. In warmer temperatures, our skin tends to sweat when we wear one and we may find ourselves adjusting our masks and moving them, which can increase the friction that occurs against the skin.
It is also believed that those who already suffer from acne and eczema or have hormonal skin may suffer more from the use of face masks, as the skin becomes even more irritated.
7 tricks to avoid acne when wearing a mask
So how can we better avoid irritation and breakouts when wearing a face covering? Here are seven tips from doctors and skin experts to help you not only treat your breakout, but also prevent you from getting it in the first place.
Wash your mask regularly
If you have bought a reusable mask, it is important that you wash it regularly. It is advisable to wash it as soon as you get home after use to prevent germs from persisting the next time you use the mask. It is recommended to remove disposable masks as soon as they have been used.
Try to avoid makeup
Makeup can sometimes block pores, and by wearing a mask on top of this you can further contribute to acne breakouts. Whenever possible, you should stop wearing makeup or wear mineral makeup if you experience breakouts.
Use a Vitamin C and Retinol serum
To help reduce acne from the mask, it is recommended to use a facial serum that contains vitamin C and retinol, as they work synergistically together to fight acne.
Lipids are also essential in treating acne and hemp oil and evening primrose oil will help repair the lipid layer, reducing pain and redness.
Have a skincare routine
Have a good routine, but don't make it too complicated. The more products you put under your mask in the morning, the more likely you are to have problems. Keep it simple with light antioxidant protection, light hydration, and a good sunscreen.
Deep clean your face
As wearing a mask can make your skin sweat and your pores clogged with sebum and bacteria, double cleansing in the morning and at night is essential to keep your pores free of irritating toxins.
Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and / or a mild cleanser to remove daily contamination from your skin. Follow with a cleansing treatment: a cleansing gel works more deeply and can also be left on the skin as a mask to brighten and soften.
The use of a cleanser with a low pH of 3.5 made with L-lactic acid or salicylic acid derived from plants is also recommended. In addition, many people use Foreo's sonic cleaning brush made with soft silicone, which is excellent for deep cleaning and improves the health of the UV barrier.
Sunscreen is a must
You should wear sunscreen at all times – a minimum of SPF30, even if part of your face is covered, as sunburn can worsen skin inflammation and lead to breakouts. Tinted options are also good alternatives to makeup.
Be smart about time
Limit the time you wear your mask by putting it only where you have been instructed to do so, for example, in trains, stations, shops, etc.
If you notice pimples where you wear the mask, remove it when you are out of these areas. You don't need to wear a mask in your own car, for example. The less time you wear a mask, the less likely it is to irritate your skin.
It is also advised to keep the time you need to wear a mask to a minimum. For example, by planning what you need to buy in stores before you go out and reducing your walking time.
