Acne usually comes about after the pores are clogged by oil, dead skin cells, make up, dirt, or
bacteria. This can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples. They vary is size and type,
depending on how infected they get. However, adopting a simple skin care routine which
includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, and wearing sunscreen can assist clearing acne.
This is because it helps the skin’s natural shedding procedure.
Regular skin cleansing and exfoliating ensures that every gunk and dead skin cells are eliminated
hence no clogged pores. Moisturizing and wearing sunscreen help ensure the skin’s protective
layer functions well. But wearing a face mask can interfere with that process. The skin cells that
are supposed to shed get clogged throughout the day. Masks provide a perfect humid
environment for bacteria to grow n our skin leading to a breakout.
What is the best way to prevent mask acne?
Since we are going to be wearing masks for a while, managing mask acne is not going to be a
one-time deal. It will need establishing both treatment and ongoing prevention habits to keep
your skin clear. And, because mask-related acne doesn’t just affect those who tend to be more
acne-prone in general, dermatologists recommend that all people practice good mask-wearing
hygiene.
The following 8 key skin care tips to protect your face from irritation:
1. Wash your face first
Dirt and oil on your skin will get trapped under the mask and can cause breakouts.
Always put your mask on over a clean face. Choose a gentle cleanser that is fragrance
free and oil free. Rinse with lukewarm water, not hot. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the
skin.
2. Apply a good moisturizer
A moisturizer keeps your skin hydrated and acts like a barrier to friction from your mask.
Choose one that has no fragrance and oil. Try to find protective ingredients like
hyaluronic acid. Avoid heavy products that can clog your skin and make you breakout.
3. Skip the makeup
Avoid wearing makeup underneath your mask. Masks act as occlusive barriers, which
means trapped makeup can result in clogged pores and breakouts. Also, residue from
makeup can soil your mask fabric.
4. Wear only clean masks
Dirt and oil from your skin and bacteria from your mouth and nose will end up on your
cloth mask. Rotate masks on hand and wash them after every use.
5. Stick to fragrance free laundry detergent
When washing your mask, choose a fragrance-free laundry detergent and lay flat to dry.
Fragrance within fabric can be an irritant, so you should don’t want it on your face.
6. Don’t reuse surgical masks
Surgical masks are not meant to be reused because there is no good way to clean them.
Surgical masks are however not recommended for the public, however, if you use one, do
not use the same one twice.
7. Protect your ears
Elastic strap loops can cause friction burns on the backs of your ears. If your skin is
sensitive or if you will be wearing a mask for long periods of time, there are alternatives.
You can attach the straps to buttons on a headband or to a clip behind your head.
8. Avoid harsh products
Medicated products like retinol or benzoyl peroxide are more irritating under a mask. If
you are wearing a mask a lot, either use of them or stop using them altogether.
Note:
If you are getting pimples under your mask, change your moisturizer. Look for something light
that is “non-comedogenic”. This means it will not clog your pores