What Is “Maskne”?
Technically a type of acne mechanica, maskne is acne that develops because of friction, rubbing, or pressure of a mask on your skin, leading to inflammation and irritation of the hair follicles. Acne mechanica is typically seen near the hairline but it has today become more common around the cheek and jaw area owing to the regular use of masks.
The problem is made worse if you live in a hot, humid environment since it triggers sweat and oil production, thus exacerbating maskne.
Thankfully, there are some effective maskne solutions to combat this problem. By incorporating some changes to your skin routine and being mindful about the fabrics you use, you can reduce maskne and keep it under control.
Tweak Your Makeup Routine
Makeup can undeniably impact your skin in the worst ways. If you already have acne, wearing heavy makeup will only make it worse. To prevent maskne, start by paying attention to the kind and amount of makeup you use.
Your skin is already covered by the mask, if you occlude it further with heavy makeup, your skin is bound to react negatively, leading to acne, dermatitis, rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema.
♡ The bottom half of your face is covered by a mask. So instead of your regular heavy, full-coverage foundation, switch to lighter and milder skin products, especially below your cheekbone. This will ensure your skin is appropriately hydrated while preventing any resulting stickiness or friction. A better option is to completely skip the foundation while you’re wearing a mask.
♡ If you have oily skin, a light dusting of powder will help keep excess sebum at bay.
♡ Ditch the contouring and highlighters. It will only irritate your skin more.
♡ Instead of glossy lipstick, you’re better off using a lip balm to keep your lips hydrated.
Tailor Your Skincare Regime
Although maskne is slightly different from regular acne, you can still use the same tools you would use to treat regular acne.
If you already have a skincare routine in place, a few minor tweaks and a few additional steps will help you address the issue of maskne.
So, what are people using for maskne?
You’ll be surprised to know that all you need to do for your skin is give it some extra TLC. Skin experts believe that even if you don’t exfoliate or tone frequently, simply cleansing your skin on a daily basis can strengthen its barrier against maskne. Without clean skin, none of the other steps in your skincare routine will make any difference.
♡ Cleansing is the fundamental part of any skincare routine, more so when dealing with maskne. Start by using a gentle cleanser in the morning, one with low pH. And in the evening, make sure you double cleanse. Use an oil cleanser or micellar water, followed by your regular foaming or gel-based cleanser. This is necessary to get rid of all the oil and gunk that may have accumulated on your beneath the mask.
♡ Exfoliate your skin once a week to get rid of dead skin cells.
♡ If you’re wondering how to treat maskne or any existing acne, spot treatments are the way to go. Spot treatment products use focused ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, zinc, or sulfur to target and treat acne and blemishes.
♡ Use a soothing and hydrating serum to replenish the moisture in your skin. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide work like a charm on inflamed skin.
♡ Don’t skip the moisturizer. Those with dry skin are more prone to breaking out because of a compromised skin barrier. If you have oily skin, use a gel-based, oil-free moisturizer.
♡ SPF is key. Whether outdoors or indoors, use sunscreen. If you’re using actives or spot treatments regularly, then sunscreen is mandatory for you.
Be Gentle With Your Skin
♡ Constantly wearing a mask interferes with the natural equilibrium of the skin cells. So it’s best not to cause further damage by scrubbing or exfoliating vigorously.
♡ Avoid using products that are too fragrant.
♡ Be mindful of the active ingredients and acne treatment you subject your skin too. They can be harsh on the skin and even dry it out.
Switch to Silk Masks
There’s no avoiding wearing a mask. But, what you can do is make sure that the mask you wear is comfortable and doesn’t damage your skin.
Silk or silk-lined masks are known to have antimicrobial properties. Though a tad more expensive than your regular cotton or disposable masks, they are worth the investment for the benefits they bring to the skin. Besides, you’ll feel so fancy.
Featuring two layers of soft silk fabric, Glamnetic’s Mulberry Silk Masks are specially designed to prevent maskne. That does not make them any less effective when it comes to keeping you safe from the virus. These masks are soft, silky smooth, and great for the skin. In other words, Glamnetic’c Silk Masks are your ideal solution to maskne in the face of the pandemic.
Available in blush, black, and champagne, these silk masks are as light as a feather; so, you’ll barely feel them. They are classy, trendy, comfortable, and breathable too. Best of all, they don’t cause any friction — the perfect masks for everyday use.
The icing on the cake — these silk masks from Glamnetic will complement any outfit you wear, whether formal or casual.
Maskne Skincare In a Nutshell
Maskne could look and feel like anything from perioral dermatitis to eczema to nodule acne, and it could happen to anyone, whether they have a history of skin disorders or not. In today’s times, you need to take your mask into account when formulating a skincare plan.
There are some simple steps you can follow to prevent maskne.
First and foremost, follow proper hand hygiene. Do not touch your face without washing your hands. Choose a mask that offers a comfortable fit and is not too tight. Tight masks prevent your skin from breathing and keep the sweat and oil trapped in, creating the perfect breeding ground for maskne. And if you find your maskne worsening despite diligent care, it's time to visit your dermatologist.
Wearing a mask is a no-brainer, but that doesn’t mean your skin has to pay for it.