With face masks now considered a must-wear item for many people across the globe, there has been a huge increase in the number of cases of 'maskne' - painful pimples caused by wearing a face mask.
What is Maskne?
Maskne is a new term that has been invented to describe an increase of pimples and blemishes that is caused by wearing a face mask, and tends to only affect the parts of the face that are covered by the protective gear.
What causes Maskne?
Dermatologist Dr. Sandra Lee explained that 'occlusion' is the main cause of maskne. In other words the humidity and the heat that occurs under the mask while you are wearing it blocks your pores and increases the chances of a breakout.
'The mask, the humidity under there, the oil produced on your skin, also compounded by the fact that you're wearing makeup under there will promote the blocking / occlusion of your pores and increase the chances of a breakout,' she said.
'When an object is consistently being rubbed across your skin, it can also disrupt your protective moisture barrier. If something is rubbing against your skin all day, it can create tiny blemishes.' Renee Rouleau, celebrity esthetician explained
How can you Treat and Prevent Maskne?
When it comes to treating maskne, chemical exfoliants like glycolic, salicylic, lactic acid are key during these moments. After cleansing, use an exfoliating tonic like the Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic from REN Clean Skincare which contain gentle Lactic Acid (AHA) and Salicin (BHA) to brighten, tightens, and hydrates skin.
The skin under masks can be prime breeding ground for bacteria so keeping your skin hydrated is also important. Dry, dehydrated skin is more susceptible to breakouts and irritation. A product such as Spot treatment is a must, especially when talking about Maskne. This Murad Rapid Spot Treatment has been designed to reduce blemish size and redness in a flash. Formulated with 2% Salicylic Acid to clear and treat blemishes, this clear formula provides relief to nasty breakouts. Use with or without makeup on top - the invisible gel formula doesn't peel or flake.
