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Who Ever Thought ‘Maskne’ Would Be A Thing In 2020?

Acne from face masks is definitely a real thing and it is becoming an issue for people around the world

by ITP Live
Who Ever Thought 'Maskne' Would Be A Thing In 2020?

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If you are suffering from random breakouts and itchiness under your face mask, don’t worry you are not alone.

Amidst a global pandemic, face masks are the latest accessory to add to your collection to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. This has come with uncomfortable side effects such as itchiness and pimples typically around the nose and mouth area.

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Maskne has been a big issue both for my patients and for myself! For somebody who is already acne prone, the whole wearing a mask all the time thing is definitely not helping. . . Maskne is actually a type of acne called “acne mechanica” – a subtype of acne we see from constant friction or rubbing of the skin. Similar acne is seen in athletes around their helmets and straps, or in violinists where the violin hits the jawline. The constant rubbing or friction causes the pores to become clogged, leading to white heads and black heads. In areas under the mask that aren’t being actively rubbed, the humidity itself can be a breeding ground to bacteria and cause breakouts. . Scroll for how to prevent and treat your maskne. . . . . #happymonday #skin #prettyskin #lovelyskin #clearskin #acne #maskne #acnetreatment #acnepositivity #acneproblems #acneskincare #mask #maskproblems #healthyskincare #dermatology #boardcertified #boardcertifieddermatogist

A post shared by Loren Franco, MD, FAAD (@loren_the_derm_doc) on Jun 15, 2020 at 4:39am PDT

‘Maskne’ comes from the friction of the mask against your skin, as well as the moisture trapped and circulating within the mask. It clogs up your pores, increases the oil production and formulates bacteria.

You wouldn’t think I would bombard you with bad news and leave you hanging, would you? Here are some ways to protect your skin from the new norm “maskne.”

First of all, if you are using a reusable face mask, wash it! It has all types of bacteria stuck to it whether it be sweat, moisturizer or makeup. The next time you wear it you will contaminate it with even more bacteria. Give it a wash and let it dry before wearing it again.

Second, go for a gentle cleanser when washing your face. Wash your face for around 1-2 minutes to wash away all the bacteria. Wash your face directly after removing your face mask to ensure you get rid of the dirt in your pores. Dermatologists recommend Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser that you can find on Amazon for around $20.

Third, if you can get your hands on a silk face mask these are great for sensitive skin. Silk face masks are gentle and reduce the friction against your skin. If you can’t get your hands on a silk one, go for one made from breathable materials like cotton. You can also support local businesses in your city by purchasing face masks from them!

Do you suffer from ‘Maskne?’