How to Get Rid of Maskne
Adult acne sucks. Covering it with a mask is like setting up a tent over a volcano.
The recent outbreak of blackheads on the face during the pandemic was popularly called “maskne”. For many people, prolonged wearing of the necessary face mask leads to acne on the covered areas. For me, wearing a mask for a few minutes gives me an escape, forcing me to never leave my house. The problem only gets worse when you go for a walk or run; sweat mixed with warm breath under a cloth mask only aggravates the situation. “Masks induce heat, friction and occlusion on the skin, and when combined with a moist environment from breathing, talking or sweating, this is a recipe for a rash,” says Harry Dao , MD, FAAD, a dermatologist at Loma Linda University (quoted on their website). And it’s not just vanity: acne is uncomfortable and even painful.
Here are some ways to get rid of and prevent masks so that we can wear masks without discomfort or anxiety.
Wash your masks often
Many of us have fallen prey to overused and slightly dirty masks. If you are using a reusable cloth mask rather than a medical disposable mask, wash it regularly with soap and water. In a recent New York Times article, Temple University assistant professor of dermatology, Dr. Candice Heath, advises: “It should be treated like underwear and washed frequently.” If you have sensitive skin, especially on your face, use a mild soap or baby shampoo.
Don’t touch your face
This habit is difficult to break, but it is the most important one. Definitely don’t touch your face when you are outdoors, but even when you are safe at home, keep those hands away. This is especially difficult when acne itches or when your anxiety is at its peak. Touching the skin can aggravate the rash and continue the cycle of irritation and infection. If the urge to touch or scratch is unbearable, wipe the area with a clean cloth. Or do something else to keep your hands busy. Play-Doh, anyone?
Clean your face
It is important to rid your face of bacteria and fat accumulations that occur when wearing a mask. While finding the right cleanser is just a journey you can take, I have found results with a rose water cleanser. Rose water soothes skin irritations and reduces redness . Micellar water is also a gentle and effective way to cleanse your face without soap or water. It is most commonly used to remove makeup, but it is a great way to remove dirt and build-up without washing your face completely. After using the mask, quickly wipe your face with micellar and / or rose water to prevent unevenness. Try not to wash your face completely every time you put on the mask. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends “limiting washing with water twice daily and after sweating.” Especially if you constantly put on and take off the mask, it can lead to the loss of face of the natural oils, which will create a completely different problem.
Don’t skip your skincare routine
While we are all at home, routine is the only thing we can work on these days. If you pamper your face with a special ritual every night, keep doing it. Again, increase your regimen to twice a day, or consider adding a mini regimen throughout the day to prevent masking.