Maskne

What is Maskne: 

Maskne AKA “Mask Acne” is caused through prolonged use of facial masks, which are a necessity during the Covid-19 pandemic and will almost certainly be a part of our lives for the future, especially during cold and flu seasons. It can affect everybody, but especially if you are more prone to acne, whiteheads, blackheads, rosacea, contact dermatitis and folliculitis. 

What does Maskne look and feel like: 

It is predominantly found on the cheeks and chin areas. Spots can be red and painful. Some breakouts, if not treated immediately, can turn into a full on acne breakout.

How is it caused:

Skin can’t breathe efficiently under a mask (or thick makeup), so it’s already compromised. Pores get clogged and irritated when hot breath and sweat (humidity) gets trapped on your skin. Bacteria thrives under these circumstances and creates irritation and inflammation under the skin and pimples/acne form. If you are wearing a mask that is tight fitting the material can rub on your skin causing friction which ultimately results in uncomfortable chafing and more irritation.

How can it be treated: 

• Use a gentle cleanser in the am and pm
• During the day, change out your mask and wipe area with one of our Queen Bee Buzz Off gentle exfoliating wipes, which are non-comedogenic and will kill any bacteria that is sitting on your face, without drying out your skin. 
• Use a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer 
• If your skin is raw, use a little cortisone and a moisturizer with Ceramides. SkinCeuticals have the best quality moisturizers and you can check to see if we are carrying one that would fit your particular situation. (ceramides help relieve irritation)

How can it be prevented:

• Remove your mask every 4 hours for at least 15 minutes. Try to do this outside and only when you are alone and not with other people. 
• Dispose of paper masks after each use (for sustainability reasons we encourage cloth masks that can be washed and used again and that don’t contribute to landfills) 
• Do not use thick and heavy makeup under masks that will clog your pores. 
• Change out your mask at least twice a day.
• Wash your face with a gentle cleanser in the morning and before bed. Use a treatment if needed during the day – an antibiotic cream if necessary, salicylic acid for bacteria control and a good quality moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.
• Choose the right mask. We recommend a fabric such as 100% breathable cotton. 

Buy our Buzz off Bumps here.

Buy our maskne and acne busting treatment pads here.

#preventionisbetterthancure