maskne.
With a rise of a now common term ‘maskne’ being searched for on Google and on social media - I share with you what this is and advice on how to control mask-induced acne.
Masks and face coverings are now mandatory to wear in most public places and quite often needed to be worn for long periods of time, it is no surprise our skin is suffering underneath them. The condition can leave you with breakouts, spots, redness or chaffing around the mouth, chin and jaw line.
To control this rising skin complaint it’s good to understand why and how the masks are disturbing the skin. Firstly, constant or regular friction will cause the skin to become weak and could impair your skins barrier function causing loss of cellular water and resulting in skin dehydration. In extreme cases sores and abrasions from chafing where the masks sit could be highly uncomfortable and can allow bacteria into the skin. Secondly, the increased heat from the breath beneath the mask will create a warm sweaty environment which can accelerate oil production, if you are prone to oily skin already then wearing a mask could amplify the issue. It is also an ideal breeding ground for bacteria commonly associated with acne conditions like breakouts, blackheads, papules and pustules. If this is a condition you suffer with and already have present on the skin, then you may experience it feeling and/or looking worse.
I promise you there are lots you can do to help manage the symptoms of this condition and keep maskne under control
All sounds pretty miserable I know and could even affect your confidence but I promise you there are lots you can do to help manage the symptoms of this condition and keep maskne under control.
Tip 1
Its important a clean face covering is worn. If you wear a fabric one this must be washed thoroughly every day, with an antibacterial wash and completely dry before wearing it again - It maybe an idea to have a few fabric ones. If using disposable masks, it could be an idea to change this half way through the day to prevent bacterial build up depending on the severity of your maskne.
Tip 2
Keep your skin clean. Sounds obvious but sometimes a quick wash or one cleanse isn’t enough. Your first cleanse will remove make up, surface oil and any build up of debris or pollution on the skin - if you cleanse for a second time it will actually CLEAN the skin! Using a pre-biotic cleanser will help balance the skin or a cleanser with a salicylic ingredient will help reduce clogged pores. Keeping the skin make-up free under the mask would also be very beneficial.
Tip 3
See a professional! Ok, I am a little bias being a professional beauty therapist myself but honestly nothing compares to a salon treatment. Most professional products used work to a deeper level on the skin and result driven products can change a clients skin within as little as 4 weeks. It can be quite overwhelming with all the products on the market, plus all the professional treatments available it can be hard to decide. Most salons should offer complimentary consultation to see what is avail to and see if samples are offered to try before investing into any product range. In my opinion it’s finding something that works for you, your lifestyle and most importantly your skin.
I love treating the skin and I am happy to offer our Glam readers a complimentary face to face or virtual skin assessment, I can offer advice on your skin complaints or issues you maybe struggling with.
