Acne Treatment and Prevention When Wearing Face Masks

Face masks are now a must-have accessory due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Wearing a mask, washing hands regularly and maintaining a social or physical distance from others can help lower the risks of spreading the disease. Many brands and designers have turned their attention towards making facial protection gear in funky prints with a variety of colours and patterns to match your style. However, this piece of health accessory turned fashion statement also has its own set of issues.

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“Maskne” is a term coined by the beauty industry to describe acne breakouts that are caused by wearing face masks. The constant rubbing between your facial skin and a mask can be cause irritations like dryness, sensitivity or even clogged pores leading to acne cysts and pimples. Air can be blocked off from the skin making it a breeding ground for all sorts of bacteria to grow and cause inflammation. It is always a good idea to maintain a good skincare routine before and after your mask, which also involves using the right products. Protect your facial skin underneath your mask with these quick and easy tips for acne treatment and prevention.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Cleanse Your Face Before Wearing a Mask

Imagine wearing a mask on your face without washing it prior. Sweat and oil mixed with dirt rubs against your mask and continues to get in the way of your pores due to friction. It is always a good idea to clean your face prior and then wear a clean mask. The products I am using these days (cleanser & toner) are from the Sahajan brand available over at @thetruthbeautycompany which offers a wide selection of natural and organic skincare and cosmetic brands online to suit your lifestyle. You can use any cleanser you desire as long as it washes your face clean of impurities and leaves it feeling smooth.

Hydrate the Skin Using a Good Moisturizer

After cleansing your skin, it might start to feel a little dry and sensitive. Using a moisturizer will keep your skin supple and smooth while replenishing it of any moisture that was stripped from it. This is so that the skin doesn’t have to secrete added oils that can end up blocking your pores. Also, certain moisturizers are medicinal and can help provide an added layer of protection by creating a barrier between the mask and your own skin. When choosing a moisturizer, try to go for something that is water-based and lightweight. It does not need to feel too heavy on the skin and should not contain any lanolins, dyes, fragrances and mineral oils.

Avoid Applying Make-up Altogether⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Think about it. Do you really want to wear your make-up only to cover it up with a mask? If you really must, then focus your make-up on the upper part of your face such as the eyes rather than your nose and mouth area. This is because it can really hot, sweaty and misty underneath a mask. The mix of sweat and oils from your pores along with make-up is not the best combo for acne-free skin. Plus, the frequent motion and rubbing of the mask against your skin will spread these elements around your skin making a hotbed for germs and bacteria. The best practice is to keep the make-up to a minimum and where necessary.

Wash your reusable cloth masks often

Cloth masks are great, especially if they are made out of cotton because they are made out of gentle fibres that are breathable and more importantly, washable. Wash your mask after you have worn them out in public. You can use the hot water temperature setting on your washing machine or preferably just use your hands to wash them! It’s very easy and will increase the lifespan of your mask.

Avoid wearing surgical masks multiple times⠀

Surgical masks were not really made to be worn multiple times and they get dirty really easily. It is important to dispose of them carefully and responsibly ideally, after each use. Always have a supply of fresh face masks on hand so you can change them easily without having to reuse.⠀

Choose a good product for acne treatment

There are many over-the-counter products that are great for acne treatment. Anything with benzoyl peroxide such as Oxy is a good one for use on the skin. Simply apply the product in the morning after cleansing and toning your face before you apply the moisturizer and do the same at night before bedtime. The medicinal properties contained in the product will seep into your pores and fight the acne during the day as you go about your daily activities and at night while you sleep.

What has been your experience with acne during the Covid-19 pandemic?⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Jamila Kyari

I’m a seasoned communications and marketing consultant with a penchant for all things stylish and chic. Follow me on social media and subscribe to the newsletter for regular updates on industry trends and much more!

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