Wearing a mask is one way to prevent the spread of COVID-19.\u00a0 There is no sign of the pandemic ending anytime soon and we don\u2019t know how long masks will be part of our daily wardrobe.\u00a0 One of the drawbacks of wearing a mask is the dreaded maskne (mask + acne).\u00a0 It is generally caused by the friction from the fabric of the mask against your skin.\u00a0 It is worse in the summer because of moisture getting trapped in the mask from humidity and perspiration. If you already suffer from acne, or another type of skin issue like eczema, rosacea, allergies or even if you just have sensitive skin, you may be more prone to maskne or other irritations.<\/p>\n
Now that you know what maskne is, we spoke to an expert to see what can help with the breakouts. Brittni Alexandra<\/a> is the owner of Toronto\u2019s B.Beautiful Studio<\/a>. The certified aesthetician shared her tips on what you can do to help avoid or improve maskne:<\/p>\n Change or wash your masks every time you wear one.\u00a0 <\/strong>Makeup, sunscreen and oils from your face will transfer onto your mask.\u00a0 They are a breeding ground for bacteria.\u00a0 Make sure that you wash your masks and let them dry completely every single time you wear them.\u00a0 If you have exercised in a mask, change it (leave an extra, clean mask in your gym bag).\u00a0 If you use disposable masks, only wear them once.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t skimp on hygiene and skincare.<\/strong> People have been cutting back on their skincare, in some instances.\u00a0 Make sure that you cleanse enough and that means at least twice a day \u2013 morning and night.\u00a0 Using the right products is also important.\u00a0 If you are experiencing maskne, your old routine may not be working because you need a stronger product.\u00a0 When you wear a mask, sometimes you are wearing makeup, you are talking with the mask on \u2013 it\u2019s a breeding ground for bacteria. You may also be touching your face more than you think that you are.<\/p>\n Cleanse your face before putting on a mask.<\/strong> If you don\u2019t, you are trapping dirt and bacteria below that mask. Your skin is usually oily when you wake up in the morning.\u00a0 If you don\u2019t wash off the oils, they will be trapped in the mask all day. \u00a0If you are wearing a mask for more than 20 minutes at a time, the first thing that you should do when you remove it (after washing your hands) is to cleanse the area.\u00a0 You can use a makeup wipe<\/a> if you need something convenient if \u00a0you are at work or the gym.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t switch to acne products, properly cleanse your skin. <\/strong>They will strip your skin, dry it out and may even cause more acne.\u00a0 It\u2019s all about proper cleansing with a gentle cleanser morning and night.\u00a0 Continue to use a moisturizer based on your skin type.\u00a0 Don\u2019t use as much, or use a lighter formula if you are wearing a mask for extended periods.\u00a0 If you are like me, have dry skin, and you need a heavier moisturizer, let it absorb completely, around 15 minutes, before you put your mask on.\u00a0 This also keeps your mask properly sealed because the moisturizer isn\u2019t making it slide around.<\/p>\n You can learn more, and follow Brittni and B. Beautiful Studio on Instagram @bb.by.brittnialexandra<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Maskne Prevention Basics:<\/h2>\n
Skincare Routine:<\/h2>\n