While wearing a mask is integral to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, it’s no surprise that these masks are having a major effect on our skin. You may have noticed how your skin has been breaking out much more than it was before. Yes, it’s most likely because of the mask. Wearing it causes breakouts because of all the sweat and dirt that is trapped inside it.
But what is the solution to this? Not wearing it is not an option so you just have to compensate with other things, such as enhancing your skincare routine and being mindful about the kind of mask you wear. Here are our top 5 ways to deal with maskne!
1. Moisturize
After wearing a mask all day long it’s important for your skin to get the hydration it needs. After you wash your face, apply a moisturizer that’ll keep your skin hydrated. It’s best to use a non-comedogenic product as that won’t block your pores and will give you all the hydration that you need.
2. Wear the right mask
The kind of mask that you wear will also have a direct effect on your skin. Get a mask that is made of a light, breathable material such as cotton. It should also not be too tight and have a comfortable fit because if it’s too tight, it can put added pressure on your skin and lead to skin barrier breakdown.
Make sure to wash it every time you wear it to get rid of the sweat and bacteria that has accumulated onto it. Not doing so can worsen your maskne.
3. Wash your face on the daily
You should be doing this regardless but especially when you’re wearing your mask. Wash it once every morning, once before going to bed and also after sweating or wearing the mask. Use a gentle cleanser, as it will help you get rid of the excess oil, bacteria and sweat. If your maskne is more severe, then you may want to use a medicated cleanser that has salicylic acid, consult your dermatologist before using it.
4. Take a break from makeup
Makeup and the mask are not a good combination! Wearing makeup underneath the mask will only cause more breakouts. If you’re treating your maskne, then don’t wear makeup for some time because it can clog your pores and prevent healing.
5. Take mask breaks
It may be a good idea to take a break from your mask every few hours to give your skin a chance to breathe. Of course, you should only do this when it’s absolutely safe to take it off because safety is the number one priority. Even if you manage to take a break from it for ten to fifteen minutes, it’s good enough. Wash your face during this time and reapply your moisturizer.
Each of these 5 tips and tricks will help you deal with and prevent maskne. Follow them and you’ll have clear, smooth skin in no time at all!
Want to learn more? Then how about becoming a cosmetology expert yourself? If you think that’s something you’d like to try, then apply for cosmetology school today! Reach out to our experts at Missouri College of Cosmetology to learn all about cosmetology school applications.