9 Tips to PREVENT Mask Acne (maskne)

Masks play an important role in protecting you and others against infection with the Covid-19 virus. At the same time wearing a mask can be hard on your skin

As we discussed in the previous article regarding "maskne". Mask acne is the name given to a group of skin problems associated with wearing facial coverings and facial masks. There are 4 major conditions usually listed under the "umbrella" term of Mask Acne:

• Acne, that results in pimples, comedones, whiteheads, and blackheads.
• Rosacea, causing flare-ups and additional acne-rosacea pimples as well as extra redness
• Contact Dermatitis that occurs when you’re allergic or sensitive to the material of your mask and can result in a rash, irritation and even blisters.
• Folliculitis, an infection of hair follicles that causes bumps that look like an acne breakout and may be painful or itchy.

To help prevent skin problems from developing under your mask here are some helpful tips you may want to implement into your daily routine:

1. Cleanse and moisturize your face daily. Use a mild, fragrance-free and non comedogenic and non -drying cleanser (lotion cleanser is usually better that a soap or wipes). Do it twice a day- morning and night. Do not rub, scrub, pop or squeeze; use a very clean towel to pat dry. Use warm but not HOT water. Hot water may additionally irritate your skin and it increases, not decreases, production of sebum (skin oil).

   Applying moisturizer adds a protective layer that can reduce dryness and flaking of dead skin cells that can clog the pores in your skin. To get the most out of a non- comedogenic moisturizer you want to apply it immediately after washing your face. The remaining moisture will help to absorb the moisturizer and water into your skin.. Good ingredients in your moisturizer are lipids, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or other ingredients such a stem cells that support water being absorbed by the skin

2. Apply moisturizer before and after wearing a mask
3. Go light on the makeup when wearing a mask. Beneath your mask, makeup is more likely to clog your pores and lead to breakouts. If makeup is necessary, use only products labeled "non-comedogenic"
4. Avoid trying new skin care products that can irritate your skin. Wearing a mask for even a short time can make your skin more sensitive. Do NOT experiment.
5. Try to avoid products with harsh ingredients like chemical peel, exfoliants, salicylic acid or retinoids, even after shave high in alcohol can dry skin and replace them by mild – non- comedogenic moisturizing and ski health supporting products
6. Take a 15-minute mask break every 4 hours. Of course, only remove your mask when it’s safe to do so and after washing your hands. DO NOT grab the mask from the front… this is where the Corona-19 virus may have parked itself.
7. Wear the right mask. To reduce skin problems, look for masks that offer the right fit:
   • A snug, but comfortable fit "hugging" not "rubbing" your face
   • At least two layers of fabric
   • Soft, natural, and breathable fabric mask with antimicrobial properties if possible
8. Chose cloth mask over the single use mask. Many health care organizations now recommend that you wash a cloth mask after each use. Washing it also removes oils and skin cells that collect inside the mask, which could lead to a skin problem.
9. PREVENT MASK ACNE USING ALL NATURAL, plant based proprietary acne treatment AcnEase

   If you have a skin condition, such as acne or rosacea, it’s especially important to follow your treatment regimen. If you just want to prevent mask acne - use Mild Acne Treatment as a PREVENTION