Dealing With Maskne? Here’s How You Can Prevent and Treat it

Isn't this surprising, that just a few years ago, we would have never thought that the terms like 'social distancing', 'quarantine', 'flattening the curve', 'lockdown' would become a serious part of our everyday vocabulary. These all may sound frightening, but somehow, they all became possible after the outbreak of Novel Coronavirus.

One of the most responsible things we can do to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic is by wearing a face mask while stepping out in public. And wearing a face mask for a prolonged period may sound uncomfortable, but it sure is one of the many ways to help prevent this virus. But with the prolonged wearing of masks, one skin condition that is popping is - 'Maskne'.

A little about maskne

Maskne or mask-infused-acne is gaining a lot of attention these days. Wearing masks for a long time can cause acne to flare up. Mostly on the areas that are covered beneath the mask. You can imagine if acne is common for the general public, then how severe it must be for healthcare providers and frontline workers.

Possible causes of maskne:

Clogged Pores
Friction
Heat
Unclean Mask
Trapped Dead Skin
Thick makeup
Heavy cosmetics

Although it takes time to treat maskne and the scars it leaves behind, but, there are so many preventive measures and maskne treatment products that can help you overcome them.

How to prevent maskne?

Wash your face regularly: In the morning, in the night, and after sweating or removing the mask.
Use gentle cleanser: A gentle cleanser can help remove excess oil, sweat, and bacteria. Don't opt for cleansers that contain alcohol, or perfume, as they can irritate your skin making it harder to heal. If your maskne is severe, then try for a medicated cleanser with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in it.
Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer: After washing your face, apply a light moisturizer. Use non-comedogenic moisturizers as they won't block your pores.
Avoid experimenting with new skincare products: Avoid trying harsh products on your skin, such as a chemical peel, exfoliant, or retinoid (for the first time). You should also avoid aftershave.
Take a break from makeup: Try to skip the makeup while you’re treating maskne. Makeup products such as foundation, concealer, and blush can clog your pores and can prolong healing.
Always wear sunscreen before stepping out: Sunscreen is a must! It will prevent your skin conditions from worsening.
Choose the right mask: Choose the mask that: fits snugly, and is not too tight, has two or more layers of fabric, and is made of natural, soft fabric (like cotton). Try to avoid masks made of synthetic fabrics, such as nylon or rayon, as these materials can irritate the skin.
Wash the fabric mask after every use: If you are using a washable and reusable mask, then don't repeat it without washing it. Use unscented hypoallergenic detergent, then let it dry completely.
Apply antibiotic cream: It is common for bacteria to build up under the mask, which can lead to acne. To avoid this, you can apply topical antibiotic cream or gel on your face before putting on your mask.
Dispose of surgical mask after each use: If you are wearing a surgical/disposable mask, then it is advised to throw them after each use. Keep multiple such masks in handy, in case you need a fresh one.
Remove your mask for 15 minutes every 4 hours: The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests removing your mask for 15 minutes every 4 hours. This will help give your skin a break.

According to AAD, safe places to remove your mask include:

Outdoors, when you can stay at least six feet away from people
Inside your car when you’re alone
At home

How to get rid of maskne?

We introduce you to maskne skincare routine: A simple three-step routine to treat maskne by Slova Cosmetics.

Slova Cosmetics, under the campaign of 'UNMASKIN' is encouraging people to look after their skin without having to remove their masks and compromising their health.

Step one: Face Mask: RENEW

This purifying face mask cleanses, exfoliates, and soothes irritated skin in 10-minutes. It gently exfoliates the skin and gets rid of excess sebum and dirt.

Step two: Face Serum: REVIVE

This rejuvenating face serum is designed to penetrate deep into your skin. REVIVE serum refines the skin's surface and calms down the inflamed and maskne-prone skin.

Step three: Face Cream: REFRESH

This hydrating face cream provides continuous hydration to the chapped, dry, and flaky skin beneath the mask. The non-greasy formula of this cream leaves the skin supple and hydrated. It is designed for both day and night use.

Shop for this anti-maskne routine on Slova, follow the link: https://slovacosmetics.com/products/breakup-with-breakouts

Summing up

We understand that maskne can be frustrating, but it is important to keep wearing face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. If maskne is not severe, you can treat it at home, by following a skincare routine, and face mask etiquettes. However, your skin conditions keep on worsening, then a visit to the dermatologist might help.