How to Fight ‘Maskne’ – the New Acne
As more states and countries around the world implement mandatory wearing of face masks, a new problem termed ‘maskne’ has surfaced. Maskne is a word made by combining mask and acne. If you’ve been breaking out more than usual around the chin, cheek or nose area, it is probably due to maskne!
Wearing a face mask every day is unarguably uncomfortable because of sweat build up, difficult breathing and reasons too many to name. However, it is crucial that we all continue to wear face masks when going out. Countries in East Asia saw a significant decline in coronavirus cases because everyone wore face masks.
If you are experiencing maskne, here are some ways I’d suggest treating and preventing it.
First and foremost, you need a face cleanser, preferably with some amount of salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide as they are bacteria killing ingredients. The warmth and moistness developed when wearing a face mask allows bacteria to grow in your pores and hair follicles.
Next, if you wear make-up, keep it light or avoid putting products on the lower part of the face, no one will see it anyway! Make up clogs pores and results in blackhead, whitehead and acne.
Replacing your mask when necessary! You do not want to reuse a disposable mask. If you use reusable masks, make sure to wash it after each use with warm water and a gentle detergent.
Before and after a long day, use a moisturizer to protect the skin from a long day of mask-wearing. A moisturizer will work as a barrier protecting your skin from the moisture that builds up in your mask.
If you aren’t already wearing face masks or you’re looking for more, here are some on Masksheets.com:
KF94, KN95, Disposable Face Masks
Please wear masks!
