If you’re serious about protecting yourself — and others — from the dangers of Covid-19, you’re wearing a mask when you go out around others. For many people that’s leading to an unpleasant side effect: blemishes, pimples, zits — dubbed maskne. Read on for some sound advice for those suffering and how to switch up your skincare and makeup regime to avoid and deal with break-outs.
HOW TO MANAGE MASKNE – AND AVOID IT
Friction, sweat, bacteria and the moisture from our breath all mingle beneath the mask leading to a breeding ground for bacteria – and that’s before you add makeup into the mix. The chin and jaw are often problem areas for acne sufferers anyway and covering up for a significant period of time can make it worse.
Stick to gentle cleansing
The first step is easy: be consistent with your cleansing routine. Making sure the skin is thoroughly cleansed and well moisturised may help relieve some of the symptoms.
If your skin is oily or acne-prone then go for a foaming cleaner, like IMAGE MD Restoring Facial Cleanser. If dry, irritated or sensitive then opt for a cream cleanser, like VITAL C Hydrating Facial Cleanser. Rather than rubbing your skin with a towel, pat it dry to avoid extra irritation.
Use a barrier cream
Your skin barrier is there to stop potential irritants passing through to deeper layers where they can cause breakouts. Support it on mask days by wearing a barrier cream.
For morning, use a cream that’s hydrating and locks moisture in…we love VITAL C hydrating anti-aging serum. If your skin starts to feel dry throughout the day and you can’t easily reapply moisturizer, we recommend VITAL C Hydrating Water Burst or AGELESS Total Pure Hyaluronic Filler throughout day for hit of hydration.
If you Break Out
If a spot does rear its ugly head, Barris Laser & Skincare recommends CLEAR CELL Medicated Acne Lotion.
Avoid makeup where possible
Dialing down your makeup is the most important element in the fight against mask-induced breakouts. Makeup tends to block pores. We recommend either going makeup-free or using I CONCEAL Flawless Foundation as it allows the skin to breathe.
Choose a mask material that’s kind to your skin
Lots of pretty-patterned masks may be available but instead of buying purely on aesthetics, look at the material. Avoid synthetic fiber, look for cotton and natural fibers that are less likely to irritate the skin. Wash after every wear.
