One of the pandemic norms everyone has needed to get used to is wearing face masks every time we go outside. It’s the least we can do to protect ourselves and each other. However, a concern people have been bringing up is experiencing breakouts due to the skin irritation masks can cause.
However, despite this skincare issue, wearing a mask is 100% still something you should do. So, here are some tips that you can try to help avoid “maskne.”
Try face masks with softer materials.
When choosing a cloth mask, opt for the one that uses the gentle fabric. Using softer cloth masks, such as 100% cotton and silk, lessens the chance of irritation even when it’s rubbing against your face all day.
Always keep your skin hydrated.
Keeping your skin hydrated is a vital part of avoiding irritation and chafing, especially since wearing masks for a long period of time can dry out your skin. In addition to doing this in your skincare routine, moisturize before going out as well since moisturizers and balms can also act as a barrier between your face and your mask.
Get a mask that isn’t too tight.
For safety, your mask needs to fit snugly, but it should still feel comfortable against your face. Maks that cause too much pressure and friction can irritate your skin and even cause chafing.
Be consistent about washing your facemasks.
Cleaning your reusable mask in between uses is completely necessary – both in making sure your skin stays healthy and in protecting yourself from the virus. If you’re able to, having an extra mask or two is a good backup that will prevent you from using an unclean one when you’re too busy to wash it between uses.
Keep an extra facemask on you for longer trips outside.
If you need to be out of the house for a big chunk of your day, having an extra mask you can switch to will keep your skin from having to sit too long in all that sweat and grime that can irritate your skin. Make sure to only change your mask in a safe area such as outdoor spaces at least six feet away from people or in your car.
Don’t skip out on your skincare routine.
Keeping your skin as healthy and clean as it can be is crucial to preventing breakouts and irritation from masks. This doesn’t need to be an elaborate 10-step routine. In fact, dermatologists advise sticking to the basics – cleansing, moisturizing, and SPF – if you can and stick to gentler skincare items so as to avoid products that can irritate your skin when wearing a mask.
Avoid wearing makeup.
Makeup – especially foundation and concealer – can clog your pores and make your skin more irritated underneath that mask. If you absolutely need to wear makeup for whatever reason, apply it only on areas your mask doesn’t cover or use gentler alternatives like tinted moisturizer.
