6 Expert Tips For Preventing “Maskne” During COVID-19

Many states are now requiring the general population to wear face masks when out in public to help stop the spread of coronavirus. As a result, many are suffering from a new skin issue, cleverly coined as “maskne.” When you breathe or talk while wearing a mask, hot air is trapped against your skin. This air creates a warm, humid environment ideal for yeast, bacteria, and other flora to grow. These bacterial imbalances, paired with friction from wearing a mask, can lead to acne and other skin problems. To avoid this common skin issue, follow these six expert tips for preventing maskne during COVID-19.

Use The Right Products To Cleanse Your Skin

Cleansing your skin every night before bed is always essential, but this is especially true if you’ve been wearing a face mask all day. Using a cleanser that matches your skin type is essential for taking proper care of your complexion. What We Recommend The coronavirus has proven to be very susceptible to detergents that easily penetrate the virus’s protective coating. If you work in a high-risk environment and your skin has potentially been exposed to viruses throughout the day, use a gentle cleanser to cleanse your skin after removing your mask, even if you have dry skin.

Apply a Calming Toner After Cleansing

Using a protective toner makes your skin less hospitable to the bacteria that cause acne. Always apply a calming toner after cleansing but before moisturizing. Applying your skincare products in this order lowers the skin’s pH levels, which makes acne bacteria less likely to linger on your skin under a mask. What We Recommend Calming Toner from ZO Skin Health is a pH-balanced toner that removes impurities and invigorates weak and sensitive skin. Soothe and support your skin cells while visibly reducing pore size without dryness or irritation.

Use Complexion Renewal Pads To Prevent Clogged Pores

If you are experiencing excessive oil production under a mask, your skin can benefit from incorporating complexion pads into your skincare routine. By preventing clogged pores, you’re reducing your chance of breaking out. What We Recommend Complexion Renewal Pads from ZO Skin Health help minimize surface oil and exfoliate pore-clogging dead skin cells and dirt. These dual-action exfoliating pads aid in reducing excess oil while calming and soothing irritated skin.

Neutralize Acne-Causing Bacteria With Spot Treatments

If you’re still experiencing blemishes from your mask rubbing against your skin, try applying an acne spot treatment under your mask. Spot treatments containing acne-fighting ingredients will create a physical barrier between your skin and the outside environment. What We Recommend To combat acne caused by wearing a mask, we recommend Acne Control from ZO Skin Health. This maximum strength acne-fighting formula controls surface oil, neutralizes bacteria, and prevents future breakouts.

Avoid Wearing Makeup With Acne-Causing Ingredients

Make adjustments to your makeup routine when you know you will be wearing a mask for an extended period to help reduce acne. Avoid wearing lipsticks and pore-clogging foundations under a mask to reduce the chances of breaking out.

Don’t Reuse Disposable Masks

Disposable masks are the best option for anyone with skin allergies to laundry detergents or certain fabrics. Disposable masks are not meant to be reused, as they can harbor bacteria, dirt, oil, and makeup. Wearing this type of mask more than once can quickly lead to clogged pores and breakouts. If you opt for a cloth mask, wash it after each use.

Still Struggling With Acne From Wearing a Mask? We’re Here To Help!

The new normal requires us to wear masks regularly and sometimes for extended periods, like while working or out in public. While covering up our mouths and noses helps us do our part in stopping the spread of COVID-19, mask-related acne is a current issue for many. If you’re struggling with acne from wearing a mask, Vein & Laser Institute is here to help! Contact us today to discuss which acne-fighting products we recommend for your specific skin type. August only, we are also offering 25% off acne products and services – use code “SKIN” in our online store to claim, or schedule a consultation to learn more about related services!