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How to treat and avoid Maskne

How to treat and avoid maskne

Over the past year, many of us have had to readjust our approach to skincare, to accommodate wearing face masks every time we leave home. Maskne refers to skin breakouts and acne flare ups caused by wearing a face mask – in addition to pimples, other mask related skin conditions include redness, bumpiness and irritation.

Those with acne prone skin, rosacea, eczema and skin that is sensitive to humid or dry conditions are more likely to experience maskne. Wearing a face mask for prolonged periods of time also causes maskne flare-ups. The closed up environment created by face masks lead to excess moisture, friction, sweatiness and clogged pores, which is why zits, pimples and acne cysts develop. Maskne commonly shows up on the chin, jaw line, cheeks and nose.

Skin problems and acne flare ups caused by face masks can be frustrating, but there are ways to effectively treat and avoid maskne.

Wear a clean mask that fits right

Wear a freshly cleaned mask whenever you leave home and remove your mask as soon as you return home. It’s recommended that you remove your mask every 4 hours to give your skin a break, however you should only do so when you can physically distance from people, and you should always wash your hands first. Make sure that laundry detergents are properly rinsed off your face mask after cleaning, to avoid irritating your skin. As a rule, you should not wear a disposable face masks more than once, as it will already have gathered dirt and bacteria throughout the day.

Your face mask should fit snuggly but not too tightly, while a soft cotton fabric is more breathable and less harsh on your skin.

 

How to treat and avoid maskne

Skincare for Maskne

Apply a double cleanse system in the morning and again at night. First wash your face with a balm cleanser, followed by your regular face wash. Cleansers with salicylic acid can help with acne breakouts, while it is essential to moisturise after cleansing, in order to create a protective barrier between your skin and mask. Fragrance free and noncomedogenic moisturisers have fewer ingredients and are better suited to sensitive skins. Using a sheet face mask twice a week can help repair your skin barrier and lock in moisture.

 

Less is more, and a streamlined approach to your skincare routine can help your skin to fight maskne and build the defences it needs. If skin damage occurs, make use of zinc oxide barrier ointments and creams which are rich in climate defences. For high-tech and effective skincare products, ask our Ohana Beauty & Wellness skincare experts about suitable Team Dr Joseph and QMS Medicosmetics facials and products. Visit our day spa at the stunning Blaauwberg Beach Hotel

 

Steer Clear of Make-Up

Going make-up free can make a big difference in the number and severity of maskne breakouts you get. Heavy, oil based foundations mix with dirt and sweat under your mask can not only end up looking cakey and smudged. Make-up under your mask also causes blocked pores, which leads to breakouts and acne. Try giving your make- up a break, or switch to a lightweight tinted moisturizer instead of your usual concealer. You can still make a statement with a set of classic or volume lashes, which can be booked at Ohana Beauty & Wellness.

 

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