Maskne : how to get rid of face-mask acne?
Discover our tips to fight breakouts caused by face-mask acne
What is maskne? (mask acne)
While covering up our mouth and nose in public spaces is becoming the new normal worldwide, you may have noticed your skin is suddenly breaking out? Don’t worry, you are not the only one.
The development of blemishes or pimples, from the chin to the cheeks, after wearing facial masks, is not an imaginary condition: acne caused by face-mask, called “maskne”, is becoming a common skin issue for many of us.
Maskne happens for different reasons. First of all, face coverings trap humidity and heat from breathing and excessive sweating, which creates enabling conditions for bacteria to develop. Moreover, face-masks can also rub against the skin, causing local irritations. Not to mention the increased stress triggered by the pandemic, which can worsen the symptoms.
How to prevent maskne
Keeping your skin away from the negative effects of face coverings is all about avoiding skin congestion that leads to inflammation.
That is why, even though facial cleansing is already part of your beauty routine, you need to take extra care after wearing a face-mask.
To prevent maskne, it is essential to purify the skin at the end of the day and make sure your pores do not become clogged. Try the Korean way to rid your skin of all impurities! A gentle and efficient detox routine that always includes a double cleansing with: an oil-based cleanser and a water-based detoxifying product. This cleansing routine is highly recommended if you wear makeup under your mask.
A layer of day cream can also be a great help to reduce maskne. Not only does moisturising keep your skin healthy but it may also prevent irritation due to friction.
What about makeup? It is ok to wear makeup underneath a mask as long as you are not heavy handed.
How to get rid of maskne
Pimples and blemishes have shown up on your face?
First of all, stick to your daily cleansing to purify your skin. And in order to remove the extra layer of dead skin cells plugging up the pores, include an extra step in your beauty routine with a regular exfoliation!
Make sure to choose a gentle exfoliator that won’t dry your face out and irritate your skin. It could worsen maskne. Beauty masks as well can be very helpful when it comes to deeply cleaning the pores: efficient results and fun guaranteed!
Finally, exfoliating your skin will also prepare it for moisturiser to penetrate and restore your skin's barrier and natural balance. All of this will help regulate sebum production, improve skin texture and get rid of maskne.
Other maskne tips: keep calm!
- Don’t forget that wearing a clean mask is necessary both to better protect against the virus and to help keep your skin away from bacteria.
- Take time for yourself and unwind. Avoiding stress is also an efficient way to fight maskne!
- Do not hesitate to see a dermatologist. A doctor's guidance can sometimes be needed to properly cure your face-mask acne. They will be able to recommend treatment specific to your condition.
You might be interested in:
- - How to do an at-home facial
- Skin detox: Your way to healthy glowing skin
- The perfect skin care routine for acne