Say Bye-Bye to Maskne With These 5 Easy Tips!

Say Bye-Bye to Maskne With These 5 Easy Tips! The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 altered our lives in so many ways, in such a short period of time. Suddenly, everything we took for granted, like after-work beers with our friends, hugging people hello or goodbye, or even casual conversations around the office water cooler, became virtually impossible seemingly overnight. It’s been a weird year, for sure, and we’ll be so excited when things finally get back to normal!

One of the strangest things we’ve all embraced as the new normal, wearing face masks in public, comes with a number of issues and annoyances, from fogging up our glasses to slipping down our noses to making it feel hard to breathe. And then there are the mask-related breakouts, dubbed “maskne,” that people with sensitive, acne-prone skin are especially susceptible to experiencing. If you are currently suffering from maskne, we’ve got some tips to help you keep your skin smooth and clear under the mask while still keeping yourself safe.

Keep it Clean

If you wear reusable cloth face masks, make sure to toss them in the wash every time you wear them. Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent optimized for sensitive skin. Pro tip from ClareBella Aesthetics, skincare experts in OKC: disposable masks should be discarded after each use and replaced with a fresh mask each time you leave the house.

Focus on your Face

If you aren’t already, use a gentle, soap-free skin cleanser to wash your face at the end of each night. For acne-prone skin, a cleanser like Differin is ideal for properly hydrating and moisturizing without making skin oily or overly dry. Finish with a gentle oil-free moisturizer to soothe and protect the skin.

Skip Makeup

Half of your face is going to be covered up anyway

what better time to go bare-faced without foundation or powder? Skipping the makeup will not only help you avoid foundation stains on your masks but can also help your pores breathe a little better.

Make a Cushion

If you notice that a certain part of your face, such as your nose, chin, or the apples of your cheeks, are prone to chafing from your mask, you can create a little barrier to help your mask fit better. Try an adhesive bandage under the parts of your ears that the mask elastic wraps around, or look for a mask with adjustable ear bands. You’ll be able to maintain a safe, snug fit that feels more comfortable throughout the day.

See a Skin Doctor

If you have suffered from acne in the past, a trip to your dermatologist at the first sign of symptoms can help to prevent a flare-up. Even if this is your first experience with skin irritation, making an appointment with a dermatologist can work with you to devise a treatment plan for any underlying issues that are causing your mask-related breakouts.

There will come a time when we no longer have to wear masks in public, and you’ll once again be able to show your face to the world safely and freely. Until then, follow these tips to keep the skin underneath your mask looking and feeling smooth, radiant, and beautiful!