Wearing a facemask is a critical preventive measure of the coronavirus pandemic. However, this “new normal” is causing skin concerns such as acne, itching, rashes, and irritations on the face. Maskne is a broad term used to define the skin woes, which arise from mask-wearing for prolonged durations. A latest study published on 29 May 2020 has also reported the exacerbation of mild to moderate acne among a large group of people.
Admittedly, it is quite inconvenient and uncomfortable to wear the mask especially when your skin is breaking out. However, there is no substitute to mask and refusing to wear would only increase the risk of COVID‐19 transmission through the respiratory route. In such a situation, it is natural to feel frustrated while finding the right solution for your mask acne. Here, we would like to tell you that numerous ways have been identified to ease the inflammation, skin discomfort, and acne eruptions on the face. Dermatologist Sonya Kenkare explains that by keeping skin care tips and precautions in place you can protect your skin from recurrent acne while wearing a mask.
Best solutions
- Wear a comfortable mask
- Use a gentle cleanser
- Do not pick at your pimples
- Skip heavy makeup
- Use a non - comedogenic moisturizer
1. Wear a comfortable mask
Various studies have shown that some commercial face masks available in the market are causing the painful zits around the chin area. It is very important to choose a facemask, which is gentle to your skin and does not bring any skin allergies. A board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Noelani González suggests the mask made up of soft fabrics like cotton or silk are less likely to cause the frictions between your skin and mask. Hence, switching to such types of fabrics allow your skin to breath properly meanwhile reducing the chance of acne development.
In addition, maintaining your mask hygiene and using a new clean mask every day is another important practice to stay safe from viral transmission and skin allergies.
2. Use a gentle cleanser
Cleansing your skin thoroughly after taking your mask off can reduce the chances of annoying breakouts. Dermatologist Dr. Waldman explains that using a gentle face cleanser twice a day helps to clear the impurities, bacteria and debris from your skin. She also explains why you should avoid harsh bar soaps or strong surfactants. The major negative impact of using strong chemicals for skin is that they destroy the skin’s protective barrier, which subsequently worsens the skin conditions.
According to board-certified dermatologists, use of Zinc PCA based face wash for people having acne prone or oily skin is quite good and safe to prevent acne.
3. Do not pick at your pimples
Popping or picking at a pimple only spreads the microbial infection and delays the wound healing process. It not only makes your acne conditions more severe but also makes you more susceptible to acne scarring. Frequently touching your face transfers more bacteria on the skin, which offers more favorable conditions for your acne infection. Therefore, keeping your hands off your face is the easiest and effective tip for your maskne.
4. Skip heavy makeup
Dr. Cassandra M. Pierre has explained that wearing the makeup under mask not only aggravates the acne conditions but also damages your mask itself. Heavy makeup gets stuck to mask fabric, which obstructs the air filtration. Similarly, sweating and humid conditions under a mask make your makeup dissolve off into your pores. Clogging of pores may lead to new breakouts and worsen the existing skin inflammations as well. Therefore, while taking a break from makeup, you can consider using natural home remedies for glowing and fresh skin.
5. Use a non - comedogenic moisturizer
Irrespective of your skin type, applying the right moisturizer after washing your face prevents your skin from becoming dry, rough, and damaged. Choosing moisturizers labeled non-comedogenic will not cause the clogging of pores, which subsequently reduce the chances of breakouts. According to American academy of dermatology moisturizers containing the Ceramides and Hyaluronic acid are the ideal skin care products that keep the skin soft and heal the skin damage.
Since the COVID situation is critical, modifying your skin regimen and adapting prevention norms is crucial for your skin health and overall wellbeing. Dermatologists point out that individuals who have never experienced acne are at a same risk of getting mask acne as those with acne-prone or sensitive skin. This is a high time to change anything about your skin care routine, which can make you prone to breakouts. Of course, the right skin-pampering creates trouble-free and flawless skin.
P.S.
Over the counter products, containing the Rice Bran extracts and BHAs like salicylic acid have been found quite helpful in treating the active and existing acne. Such topical formulations are known to heal the acne without drying out the skin. However, it is good to see a dermatologist if your acne flares keep rising despite turning to such treatments. After figuring out the root cause, skin care expert can prescribe you a more potent treatment for your skin condition.
