Suffering from ‘maskne’? Skin specialist, Dannielli Marcelino, reveals how to prevent irritations, rashes and breakouts from wearing a face covering
Have you had more breakouts since you started wearing a mask? While face coverings help protect us and those around us, wearing the new everyday essential can cause breakouts as a side effect known as ‘maskne’.
As if stress breakouts weren’t bad enough, Dannielli, skin specialist at Suddenly Slimmer Med Spa, explains how wearing a face mask is linked to increased breakouts and discomfort for the skin.
‘Maskne is the term given to acne and breakouts which are caused by wearing a mask,’ she says.
‘From the friction of the mask causing irritation to bacteria transferring from the mask onto your skin, there are many ways in which wearing a mask could mean your skin will start to suffer, becomes irritated, congested and could potentially promote acne around the cheeks and chin area.’
In addition to the breakouts caused by prolonged mask-wearing, many of us are finding other issues are being triggered by this too – such as sensitivity, soreness and rosacea.
With this in mind, we asked Dannielli, for the best solutions to clear up ‘maskne’ and prevent further breakouts caused by wearing face coverings.
1. Materials make a difference
‘When choosing a mask, I would spend a little bit more to ensure that it is a good fit, large enough to cover the face, offers the right type of fabric which is breathable, soft on the skin and non-irritating,’ says Marcelino.
‘I would also advise buying a couple which will allow you to rotate the mask every day so that you are wearing a clean mask each day while the other is in the wash.’
She adds: ‘Opt for natural fabrics such as cotton or washable silk as these types of fabric will reduce the friction of the mask on your face which should help to prevent any irritation from rubbing.’
2. Double cleanse using results-driven skincare
Dannielli, explains how you should reach for results-driven skincare ranges and targeted ingredients such as salicylic acid if you want to banish ‘maskne’ blues.
She says: ‘If you do get a breakout or acne as a result of wearing your facemask, treat it by using anti-inflammatory ingredients such as a cleanser containing salicylic acid. This will reduce inflammation and help combat congestion of the skin, such as Obagi Gentle Cleanser.’
Dannielli explains how double cleansing is a must to remove unwanted bacteria, dirt, and excess oil. She says: ‘If your skin is prone to inflammation and breakouts, then you may want to invest in Obagi Pore Therapy which contains Salicylic that helps to kill acne-causing bacteria.
She adds: ‘I would advise if you don’t already, double cleansing each evening before bed to ensure that your skin is clean after wearing the mask. You can use a gentle cleanser with aloe and natural ingredients but just ensure you double cleanse using warm water and a muslin cloth to remove any unwanted bacteria from all areas of the face and neck.’
3. Keep skin moisturized
If you’re struggling with sensitivity and dryness, lightweight emollients can help restore lost moisture and protect skin from friction from your mask.
Dannielli suggests: ‘After washing the skin, try not to rub the surface, patting dry with a towel rather than rubbing. A good moisturizer at this time is also essential to put back any lost moisture into the skin.’ Dannielli’s favorite moisturizer is one that she developed specifically for those who need to restore lost moisture from the skin drying Arizona weather, called Marcelino MD H2O Gel Moisturizer, it’s a great moisturizer that will not clog pores or cause a breakout. This ultra-lightweight moisturizer drenches the skin in goodness like a glass of water, delivering instant plumping and hydrating results. Plus, it allows makeup to glide on seamlessly.
If you’re looking for an over the counter option, I would recommend Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturiser it packs a heavy dose of hyaluronic acid to keep skin hydrated and locks in your natural moisture at an affordable price.
4. Incorporate a clay face mask into your skincare routine to unclog pores
According to Dannielli, a hardworking clay mask is what you need for a complexion boost. She says: ‘I would also start to use face masks more regularly, perhaps a few times a week.
‘These will work to draw out any impurities and bacteria which have surfaced onto your skin from wearing the mask and will work deep into the epidermis. A clay mask is best for acne-prone skin. One of Dannielli’s favorite clay masks is Gunilla of Sweden Lerosett Clay Mask. LEROSETT is a professional skin care product for problem & oily skin that’s been a favorite for dermatologists and estheticians for over 23 years. LEROSETT is only sold through licensed skincare professionals.
If you’re looking for an over the counter option, I would recommend L’Oreal Paris Pure Clay Charcoal Detox Clay Mask.
5. Go makeup-free or choose lightweight products
It’s fine to wear makeup, but try to choose more lightweight mineral-based makeup, applied sparingly. Skincare or makeup – when applied too heavily – can clog the skin. So be mindful of the products you reach for on the days you’ll be wearing a face covering.
‘If you can, go makeup-free as this will allow the skin to breathe. If you can’t manage to stay clear of the foundation, make sure you thoroughly remove all traces of makeup once you take the mask off,’ says Dannielli.
7. Keep your mask clean
Dannielli explains how keeping your mask clean is vital to ensure that you keep your skin clean and free from any harmful bacteria that could cause you to breakout.
Changing your mask regularly can help to reduce levels of irritation to the skin, especially after sweating and working out.
Dannielli adds: ‘It’s super important to ensure that you remove your mask when you aren’t wearing it to allow the skin to breathe and to get some air into the mask. I would also advise machine washing your mask after every use on a hot setting with a good detergent, and I would advise buying a few masks so you can rotate them.’
