WHAT IS MASKNE?

Times have changed, as we are all too well aware, and part of that change is that we are all required to wear a protective face mask; for many people it’s a requirement of their job, but it also affects everyone using public transport, going shopping, visiting pub or restaurant, as well as a salon, hairdressers, dentist etc.

As a result of this new addition to our attire, many of us are now suffering from the newly named Maskne – a mask-induced acne. This is mainly due to the fact that most of us aren’t familiar with wearing masks, and neither is our skin!

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

• Redness
• Chafing
• Irritation
• Heat-rash
• De-hydration
• Breakouts

If you are already prone to breakouts, then wearing a mask will amplify the issue.

WHAT CAUSES IT?

Maskne is the result of continuous chafing of the mask on the skin, which allows the skin to become weak, lose water and enables bacteria in. At the same time, wearing a mask creates a humid environment that can cause sweat and oil to build up. All of these factors result in clogged pores and a disruption of normal sebum production creating breakouts.

The time of year can also have a different effect; summertime’s warm, moist environment will most likely cause clogged pores whereas the winter climate will create friction on dry, more sensitive skin.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP THE PREVENTION OF MASKNE?

• Wear a clean face mask every day
• Avoid wearing make-up underneath the mask (the cleaner the skin, the better chance it has of avoiding reactions)
• Avoid overusing home peels and harsh exfoliators 
• Apply maskne-fight-busting products in daily skincare routine

Source from: https://www.pevonia.co.uk/advice/what-is-maskne-and-what-can-we-do-about-it/