Skin Irritation from Wearing Masks? Discover Solutions to Eliminate Mask-Related Breakouts
Ditched the non-skin-friendly mask yet again and got another load of mask acne? Here's the deal, buddy:
Wearing masks is a real-life party for skin nasties, providing the perfect breeding ground for clogged pores, pimples, and acne. And that's all thanks to covered skin, friction, sweating, and trapdoor bacteria. On the bright side, you're never alone in this frustration: mask acne (or "maskne") has been tormenting folks globally since the dawn of mask mandates.
But hey, don't shed a tear just yet! Arm yourself with knowledge and kick mask acne in the butt. If you're still rocking a mask in public or putting in a grueling 9-5 shift, these tips can help you beat that blasted breakout.
What in the world is maskne?
Put simply, maskne isn't just acne. It's a catch-all term for various skin conditions caused by mask-wearing. From acne and rosacea to periofacial dermatitis and folliculitis, there's an array of mask-related skin issues. And if you thought your crisp, fresh skin care routine was impenetrable, think again.
If you already suffer from any of these skin conditions, you may be more susceptible to mask acne. But remember, this pandemic has proven anything can happen to anyone, and mask acne is no exception.
What's behind those breakouts?
Mask acne's causes vary, but the basic culprits are hydration and PH imbalances, redness, and oil production. And don't forget about friction! That annoying slide around your mask is causing chafing and irritation, too.
Another prime suspect? Allergy to your mask's material or chemicals, which can result in contact dermatitis. So if you suspect your mask is causing more harm than good, look for another one that's better suited to your skin's delicate nature.
What the heck can I do about maskne?
Don't sweat it, here are tips to help you prevent and treat that pesky mask acne:
Get rid of disposable masks after each wear
The CDC recommends chucking disposable masks after every use to limit bacterial growth. And if you wear a respirator, follow the manufacturer's instructions about how long you can wear it before getting rid of it.
If your mask gets wet or dirty, toss it apart and replace it with a brand-new, clean, dry one.
Give your skin some undies
If possible, take off your mask for at least 15 minutes every 4 hours to give your skin some fresh air. Be sure to wash your delicate paws before you take off your mask and don't forget to scrub 'em again when you put it back on.
Wash cloth masks daily
Toss your cloth mask into the washing machine after every wear (or daily, according to the CDC), using a delicate wash cycle and unscented, hypoallergenic detergent. Dry your mask naturally and make certain it's 100% dry before wearing it again.
Slap on some moisturizer
If your skin is on the dry side, a mask could cause even more irritation. Applying a noncomedogenic, scentless cream can help hydrate your skin and create a barrier between your mask and skin.
Dump makeup
Wearing makeup beneath a mask can clog your pores and increase your chances of breakouts. opt for noncomedogenic products instead.
Wash your face after wearing a mask
Stripping off that mask after a long day feels heavenly, doesn't it? Wash your face as soon as you can to remove harmful buildup. Follow up with a moisturizer.
Fix underlying conditions
Treating underlying skin conditions can help prevent future maskne and treat existing issues. Consult a dermatologist for antibiotics, creams, or other treatments.
Kiss mask acne goodbye
Maskne prevention and treatment go hand in hand. These quick treatment tips can help you eradicate a maskne breakout:
- Take a mask break for at least 15 minutes every 4 hours.
- Wash your face regularly using a gentle cleanser and follow it up with a moisturizer.
- Change your disposable mask or wash your reusable mask regularly.
- Ditch makeup or use noncomedogenic products.
- Consult a dermatologist if your symptoms persist or worsen.
Product Picks for Mastering Maskne
Keeping your skin clean, managing oil production, and using treatments to reduce breakouts can help both prevent and treat maskne. Here are some essential products to add to your routine:
- A salicylic acid cleanser. Face washes with salicylic acid, like CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser, can help remove dead skin cells and excess oil from your pores.
- A benzoyl peroxide spot treatment. Sayonara, zits. A treatment with benzoyl peroxide, like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment, can help zap acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- A moisturizer tailored to your skin type. Discover your go-to moisturizer based on your skin type and maskne issues, such as oily skin, dry skin, rosacea, and eczema.
Since each skin situation is unique, you might want to chat with a dermatologist about the right products for you.
Kapow! That's It!
Wearing a mask changes the skin environment and encourages irritation, leading to acne or breakouts. Maintaining a clean and balanced diet, managing stress, and following a consistent skincare routine can help reduce the risk of maskne.
If your maskne persists, it might be due to an underlying skin condition like eczema or rosacea, which requires professional detection and treatment. Consult a dermatologist to get the right treatment for your skin.
- Mask acne, or "maskne", is a collective term for various skin conditions caused by mask-wearing, including acne, rosacea, periofacial dermatitis, and folliculitis.
- The basic causes of mask acne are hydration and pH imbalances, redness, oil production, and friction, with allergy to mask materials or chemicals possibly contributing to contact dermatitis.
- To prevent and treat mask acne, practices such as discarding disposable masks after each use, taking mask breaks, washing cloth masks daily, using moisturizers, avoiding makeup, and washing the face after wearing a mask can be helpful.
- Treating underlying skin conditions can also help prevent future maskne and treat existing issues; consult a dermatologist for antibiotics, creams, or other treatments.
- To combat maskne, consider using a salicylic acid cleanser, a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment, and a moisturizer tailored to your skin type.
- Maintaining a clean and balanced diet, managing stress, and following a consistent skincare routine can help reduce the risk of maskne, but seeking professional advice from a dermatologist remains essential for addressing persistent or worsening symptoms.
