Know The Skin You're InKeyaaniOctober 05, 2020Oct 2020Comment

How To Treat Maskne

Know The Skin You're InKeyaaniOctober 05, 2020Oct 2020Comment

Your Chic Guide To Maskne

[Mask-Acne]

Living through a pandemic is tough and we are now living in the new-normal where social distancing and face coverings are compulsory. The constant wearing of masks has given rise to ‘maskne’ and yes ladies and gentlemen it is a real thing.

According to dermatologist Angeline Young, the “Constant rubbing of the masks against our skin causes micro-tears, allowing easier entry for bacteria and dirt to clog up our pores” The very function of face masks is occlusive (to block things). When you add in the hot and moist environment created by breathing in to the mask you are left with a build-up of sweat, oil and bacteria and simply put a breading ground for acne flare-ups.

I have oily-acne prone skin and have dealt with many acne-episodes during my early teens and twenties. It can be an exhausting process to get your skin under control and not to mention the negative impact it can have on your confidence. Recently I have been suffering with maskne. I joked with my husband that wearing the face mask actually hid the problem, although I had already made a similar mistake in my teens. Well, rather than a face mask, I used makeup to cover up my acne rather than treat it. It was my own insecurities that got the better of me.

It is always better to treat the problem and with these pro tips and product recommendations you can get your maskne and any breakout under control.

1. Find the right material for your face mask

The Face Mask is in direct contact with your skin. In order to minimize irritations, it is good to choose a quality mask with a soft and breathable fabric. It is a good idea to have a couple face mask back ups so you aren’t wearing the same face mask each day where bacteria can build up. Natural materials such as cotton, washable silk and hemp are great as they will reduce the friction.

We recommend Organic Hemp Face Mask By Wishtrend, a Korean skincare brand that is made from 55% Hemp and 45% Organic cotton. It is a super soft material that’s reusable and machine washable.

We recommend, Organic Hemp Face Mask By Wishtrend >

2. Wash your face mask regularly

You would be surprised by how many people don’t wash there face mask regularly. It is good hygiene and use a laundry detergent that is suitable for sensitive skin.

We recommend, Fairy Non Bio Washing Liquid for Sensitive Skin £4 >

3. Double cleanse

A skincare routine is a key factor in maintaining the health of the skin. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate or expensive but something that gets the job done. I would recommend double-cleansing especially in the evening after taking your mask off. It helps to thoroughly cleanse the skin of sebum, dirt, bacteria and all that extra grime that can build up throughout the day. As a first cleanse you can use a balm or oil cleanser followed by your usual gel or cream cleanser.

The balm cleanser I would recommend is the Banila CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm. There is a cute Mini set of this and it’s a great way to try before committing to the full size product. It comes in an assortment of cleansing balms, original, nourishing, revitalizing and purifying.

We recommend, Banila Co Clean it Zero Special Mini Set £12.90 >

4. Treat the active acne

It’s always a good idea to treat the active acne. There are some great acne treatments that help to dry out and flatten the spots.

The two we would recommend are;

5. Don’t pick at spots

Picking spots is a big no-no, but I have to admit I’m guilty of this too. Picking spots not only increases chances of bacteria spreading but can also create scarring. That’s when spot patches come in handy. There litter stickers that you place over the spot to help reduce the redness and stop picking.

We recommend, COSRX Clear Fit Pimple Patch £4 >

6. Hydrate & Soothe

Make sure to moisturize the skin. Especially if the skin is damaged and irritated. Hydration also helps to repair the skins barrier. The Aromatica Aloe Vera gel is great at soothing the skin and is 95% organic. I would also recommend the Skin Sapiens nourishing and hydrating cream with calendula that’s perfect for sensitive skin types. The Axis-Y Artichoke serum is great at repairing the skin barrier.

Another fun way to get hydrating back in to your skin would be to use sheet masks. Mask Time UK have a fun selection of these. We recommend the following 4;

7. Don’t wear heavy makeup under the mask

Finally, the moist and humid condition under the mask mixed in with makeup is just asking for trouble. It can lead to clogged pores and spots. If can go makeup-free, try that or just don’t apply makeup under the mask.

There’s also the option of using CC creams or tinted moisturiser if you’re not comfortable being bare faced and it provides a lighter alternative to foundation.

The two we would recommend are;