Unfortunately, this pandemic is associated with several collateral
problems. And one of them is the maskne – comes from mask and
acne. It is also known as acne mecanica or mechanical acne, because
it is mainly generated by the friction of the mask against the skin,
causing irritation. In fact, this form
of acne is well known among surgeons and operating rooms staff.
Wearing the mask continuously for several hours creates an unfriendly microclimate for the skin. Of course, not everybody develops maskne – persons with oily skin or dry and sensitive skin are more likely to develop this skin condition.
The microclimate underneath the mask includes aggressive factors:
increased humidity and sebum (oil), sweat, dirt, skin debris – all these will clog up the pores and eventually lead to acute acne lesions.
Actually, acne is not the only skin problem reported especially in this last year by people wearing the mask for prolonged time. Some of the other skin conditions are:
- Allergic contact dermatitis, caused by chemicals some masks may contain
- Rosacea is usually exacerbated by heat and sweat – and mask wearing can increase flares
- Folliculitis – caused by bacterial infection of hair follicles.
But don’t worry! There is light at the end of the tunnel!
Following a few simple recommendations , you will be able to prevent or treat the maskne.
First and foremost – HYGIENE.
It’s very important to wear a clean mask everyday! Don’t get compulsive, though! Either get a new disposable mask daily, or, if you’re using a fabric mask, launder it every day. Of course, the
fabric is also very important – cotton is the best one, due to the fact
that
it is hypoallergenic and gentle for the skin. Silk is also good - it's smooth and reduces friction to minimum.
Then – the CLEANSING. Cleanse your face several times a day, especially before and after wearing a mask. Use a hypoallergenic, gentle cleanser and warm water.
HYDRATION or MOISTURIZING of the skin is another important
aspect – proper hydration of the skin is imperative for maintaining
its barrier function at optimal level.
Dryness is a very common problem caused by wearing the mask
many hours during the day. Applying a moisturizer immediately after washing your face creates a protective layer that will reduce the dryness. I recommend to use moisturizers that include one of the following ingredients:
- Ceramides
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Dimethicone.
From all the products I have tested, my favorite is MesoAge from
Institute BCN – it is based on Hyaluronic Acid, has a gel texture,
absorbes quickly into the skin and creates a protective film.
Do not apply MAKE UP before wearing a mask. Foundation and concealer determine the occlusion of the pores and can lead to breakouts.
Wearing the mask, not necessarily a long period of time, increases the sensitivity of the skin. That’s why you have to avoid using ‘aggressive’ products, such as chemical peelings, exfoliants or Retinol.
If Retinol is part of your skin care routine, apply it in the evening.
In case irritation and redness occur after wearing the mask, try not to apply products which contain Salicylic Acid and Retinol. And a piece of advice for the men – use balsam, not aftershave!
Take a 15-minute mask break every 4 hours. Health care workers on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic have found that this helps save their skin. Of course, only remove your mask when it’s safe to do so and after washing your hands.
Safe places to remove your mask include:
- Outdoors, when you can stay away from people
- Inside your car when you’re alone
- At home
Apply a gentle face mask, once a week - a purifying clay mask, a mask containing charcoal, tea tree or salicylic acid are, in my opinion, the best choices.
And last, but not least – PERSISTENCE – by following these simple recommendations everyday, you will keep the maskne away.
Stay safe!
Wear the mask!
Take care of your skin!
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