Can Wearing Face Masks Cause Acne & Other Skin Conditions?
Also known as 'Maskne,' many people have experienced acne and pimples upon wearing face masks for extended periods. To make matters worse, wearing face masks wasn't optional during the pandemic. So how do face masks cause acne, and more importantly, what can be done to prevent and treat it? We'll be exploring all of that as well as the positive impact that skin treatments like the LOOKEE® G-Mask can have.
Is Maskne Possible?
Yes, very much so, and medical professionals have reported that it isn't uncommon to experience breakouts because of this. When we put on a face mask, the hot air that we breathe becomes trapped, creating a warm, humid environment ideal for bacteria and skin mites to thrive in.
This, paired with friction from the mask, may cause skin conditions like rosacea flare-ups and perioral dermatitis (fine pimples around your nose and mouth). Other factors may cause skin irritation and further contribute to skin conditions, such as applying thick layers of makeup or topical products and having too much facial hair.
How Can it Be Prevented?
While some specialists have said that overusing creams can further aggravate maskne, especially for oily skin types, they also note that applying a thin layer of moisturizer can act as a barrier against friction caused by face masks.
You can stop flare-ups by making a few adjustments to your skincare routine. The first step would be to start cleansing twice a day. In the morning and, more importantly, in the evening, so that any acne-causing bacteria that accumulated throughout the day can be removed.
The same rules apply to people who use makeup. Make sure to cleanse at night to remove any dirt and bacteria. Men with long beards are more likely to sweat when wearing a mask. The sweat and bacteria can get trapped in their facial hair and put them at a higher risk of developing pimples and acne. They should also cleanse more regularly, but it is also recommended that they carry a toner containing witch hazel hydroxy acid to freshen up during the day.
Another essential rule is to always use a clean face mask. Do not wear the same one for days on end as you expose your skin to a build up of germs that will increase the risk of acne. Make sure to always have a few disposable masks on hand.
Treating Maskne
Once the damage has already been done, acne marks, spots, and scars can become a pain to deal with. The first step would be to make sure you're using a suitable skincare routine and the right facial products.
Experts recommend using products that contain hyaluronic acid to prevent the skin from drying out and those with ceramides to help the skin maintain a lipid barrier against friction and bacteria. Cleansers and scrubs that have glycolic acid will assist with unclogging pores and removing dirt. It is also recommended to use lightweight, gel-based moisturizers, especially for oily skin.
The LOOKEE® G-Mask also helps as it is an effective treatment to combat acne and promote cellular regeneration. By balancing the production of sebum and stimulating the skin to detoxify itself of impurities, the G-Mask proves to be an effective acne spot treatment and reduces the chances of breakouts.
When repairing damaged skin on a cellular level, consistent use of the G-Mask can include the following benefits:
- Skin rejuvenation & restoration.
- Brightens skin to fade blemishes, hyperpigmentation & dark spots.
- Smoothing fine lines & wrinkles.
- Increasing blood circulation & skin metabolism.
- Tightening skin & shrinking pores.
- Strengthening skin immunity & tolerance.
With face masks being mandatory to stop the spread of the Coronavirus, we have to adapt and find ways to overcome the minor inconveniences they may cause. While maskne is an unfortunate side effect, a proper skincare routine and regular changing of masks can keep pimples and breakouts at bay.
Reference List:
How to Avoid Maskne (Mask Acne) Breakouts:
https://www.healthline.com/health/maskne
9 Ways To Prevent Face Mask Skin Problems:
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/face/prevent-face-mask-skin-problems
Maskne Is the New Acne, and Here’s What Is Causing It:
https://www.nytimes.com/article/maskne-acne.html
How to Treat and Prevent Maskne, the Acne from Face Masks, According to Dermatologists:
https://www.prevention.com/beauty/skin-care/a39574022/maskne-tips-treatment/