12/11/2020
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I started doing some research when I noticed I was breaking out only in the general area of where my mask covers. Sure enough, I found many articles just about this subject. I also learned a new term...Maskne. It's a fun word to say but not so fun when you experience it. Our skin care line, Eminence Organics also wrote a great skin care & beauty article regarding this one question. Can our face masks be causing acne?
It’s bad enough that hormonal changes, stress, excess skin oil and bacteria can trigger acne, even for someone well into their 40’s…I’m not giving away my age. My daughter thought I was 28 until I had a surprise 40th Birthday party a couple years ago and my “Straight outta my 30’s” T-shirt my sister got me gave it away LOL. Maskne does not discriminate against age by any means!
Face masks have become the norm and although they offer us protection, they are not helping our skin with mask-induced acne and irritation. Masks impose heat, friction and occlusion on the skin and when combined with a moist environment from breathing, talking or sweating, this is a recipe for maskne. So why do face masks make you breakout and what can you do?
WASH YOUR FACE AND MASK PLEASE!!!!
Reusable face masks do require extra care. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages “regular” washing of reusable masks. It’s best to wash them after each use if possible. Masks that are reused can harbor oils and bacteria. They also trap heat and moisture against the skin, allowing bacteria to thrive, which can cause acne and irritation. Being in the spa biz laundry is one of my least favorite chores at the office or home so I have stocked up on several different face masks. I really love our breathable Onzie face masks that we have at the studio. They are reusable, washable, moisture wicking and in cute prints! Did you ever think we would be discussing how cute a face mask could be?
TAKE MASK BREAKS
Get outside and take a break from wearing your mask. Get some fresh air and give your face a clean flow of oxygen.
PREVENTION
International Eminence Trainer, Katie Rattray says the two most effective way to keep mask-induced breakouts at bay are to:
Create a barrier between the skin and mask
Stay hydrated
Mask seem to suck up and draw out any moisture from the skin. Facial oils during the day will assist sealing in moisture and additionally creates a physical barrier from the mask. It’s always better to prevent breakouts than to wait until they need treatment.
Keep up with your morning and evening skin care routine. WASH YOUR FACE! Daily facial cleansing removes every last trace of dirt, excess oil, pollution and unwanted skin cells off of your face. DO NOT, I REPEAT DO NOT head straight to bed and skip cleansing your face. Cleansing your face twice daily will benefit the health, youth, and radiance of your skin.
TREATMENT
If you find yourself having mask-induced breakouts, our Licensed Estheticians are here to help you with ways to treat breakouts and irritations. Sometimes all that is needed is a little adjusting to your skin care routine and products used. For example, if you typically use a cleanser with exfoliating beads and harsh foaming agents, switching to a gentler cleanser that won’t compromise your skin and increase irritation may be helpful.
DIY on-the-go cleansing pads!
How it works: Apply Stone Crop Cleansing Gel or one of your favorite Eminence exfoliating peels onto a clean cotton round. Seal it in a small bag or air-tight container and take it with you. Use it in the middle of the day to remove residue and cleanse where the mask has been in contact with and rather than scrubbing, gently glide the pad over the skin with minimal pressure.
Remember the 3 Ws of Maskne
Wear a clean mask and give your face a break when outdoors.
Wash your face in the morning and evening.
When in doubt give us a call at 850-356-6311 and we’ll get you scheduled for a Complimentary Skin Care Consultation.
Be Well, Cindy Owner/Founder/LMT