How To Treat Maskne (Mask Acne)?
Acne is the most typical skin condition that many of us experiences at times. Breakouts are a problem for about 85% of teenagers, as well as for 5 in 10 women and 4 in 10 men over the age of 25.
So, what triggers acne?
Stress is just one of several causes. Many hormones, including cortisol, causes your skin to generate more oil. Not to mention that stress can increase the rate of its secretion. This can then result in blackouts, whiteheads, and acne. Meanwhile, it can also trigger other skin conditions. For example, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis.
But, what is Maskne?
Many of us now find ourselves using masks as a result of COVID-19. However, unfortunately, this can harm our skin. You defend yourself and the people around you when you wear a mask. But you’re also exposing the skin underneath the mask to an extremely warm and humid environment. This welcomes microorganisms that aren’t usually good for your skin. Additionally, a buildup results from your skin’s inability to naturally remove dead skin cells. This chain of incidents can result in “maskne,” acne that is partly brought on by wearing a mask.
How to prevent Maskne?
Although it may sound unpleasant, there are ways to prevent maskne. It’s crucial to maintain a regular skincare routine or to start one if you don’t already have one. For example, washing your face. Additionally, it’s important to regularly exfoliate your face.
To prevent bacteria from forming, you can also remove your mask periodically during the day when it is safe to do so. Then, you should wipe or wash the skin there. Otherwise, try to avoid touching your face with your hands, which can contaminate your skin with oil and debris. Don’t pick at any potential pimples or whiteheads. Moreover, use a topical ointment or lotion instead that has salicylic acid or perhaps benzoyl peroxide in it.
Let’s take a detailed look at what causes maskne and how to avoid it.
What causes maskne?
The precise reason of your symptoms may differ as maskne can involve a variety of skin disorders.
Maskne is typically the result of clogged pores. On your skin, there are already dead skin cells, germs, and oil. However, these elements might collect more and clog your pores while you’re wearing a mask.
A mask also collects moisture from your respiration and perspiration, which could make acne more likely to occur.
On the other hand, friction is another conceivable factor. It can make your skin chafe. As a result, your skin can get irritated if your mask rubs against it.
Alternatively, you may develop some allergic reactions from the material used for the mask. Some masks include a chemical pretreatment or have a harsh feel to the skin. In a similar vein, the pain could result from washing a mask in a fragrant detergent.
How to treat it
Even if you have maskne, you should not avoid wearing a mask. One of the greatest methods to shield yourself and others around you from COVID-19 is to cover your mouth and nose.
However, finding the right mask can help in the prevention of maskne. But, there are other ways to deal with symptoms.
Let’s look more closely.
Frequent face washing
Maintain your normal skincare regimen to keep your skin healthy.
You should also wash your face.
- Before going to bed
- After sweating or using a mask twice a day
- Once in the morning and at night
Use warm water to cleanse your face. Then, pat your face with a fresh towel to dry it instead of rubbing it. Use simple cleaners and soaps.
Use a mild cleanser
You can eliminate extra oil, sweat, and bacteria with the help of a mild cleanser. Don’t use cleaners that have alcohol or fragrance in them. These components can irritate you and make it more difficult for your symptoms to get better.
Instead, try a medicated cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide if your acne is more severe.
Also, you can ask your doctor or dermatologist what type of medicated cleanser is best for your skin if you have sensitive skin.
Wash your mask
To get rid of the filth, sweat, and bacteria that have built up inside the face mask, we suggest cleaning your mask every day. Even the doctors advise against using bleach while washing your mask as it degrades the material and irritates the skin. Moreover, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests using laundry detergent that is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
If you can, try to take mask breaks
The AAD advises taking a 15-minute break from wearing a mask every four hours. Of course, wash your hands first and only remove your mask when it’s safe to do so. Moreover, doctors advise using the time between mask use to wash your skin with a mild cleanser and re-apply moisturizer.
Don’t wear a tight mask
Wearing a mask that is excessively tight increases pressure on the skin and causes a breakdown of the skin barrier. Therefore, always go for a mask that fits snugly but comfortably.
Conclusion
A face mask can cause acne to break out, known as maskne. Depending on the etiology, symptoms may include chafing and irritation, pimples, and other signs and symptoms.
However, it’s crucial to continue using masks throughout the COVID-19 situation, even if maskne might be annoying. But, you can avoid skin issues by washing your face frequently, moisturizing, and using the correct kind of mask.
A combination of cotton and silk will be helpful for your mask’s material. However, researchers have not yet come to a consensus on which materials or fits offer the best protection against both harmful particles and skin complaints.
Consult your dermatologist or healthcare practitioner for further instructions if your maskne is more severe or if it continues after you’ve tried the suggestions above.
