We’re slowly getting used to the new normal of having to wear a mask when out and about in public nowadays. What we’re not used to, is the new form of acne we’re suffering from due to wearing masks so frequently. Whether you’re prone to breakouts normally, or haven’t dealt with spots since your teenage years, chances are you’re experiencing additional spots on the lower half of your face now.

The reason we develop maskne (that is, acne caused by wearing a mask) is because we are now breathing in a confined, warm and moist environment, which creates the perfect breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. Multiple contact points between the skin and the mask fabric are constantly rubbing sweat, oil and bacteria into the pores causing blockages.

So since face masks are here to stay for the foreseeable future, what can we do to treat, and most importantly avoid spots?

Below are five top tips for managing your maskne.

Choose your fabric wisely

Where possible, try to purchase a reusable mask - it’ll be kinder on your skin and the environment. Pure cotton and silk are the most favourable, as they provide minimal irritation. It is also important to get the right fit, as a mask which is too tight will cause excess friction and sweating.

Why not check out some locally handmade masks, such as these cotton face masks from Magic Stitch Designs.

It’ll all come out in the wash

It is important to regularly wash your reusable face masks, as germs and bacteria will build up on them throughout the day. Cotton and silk face masks should be fine to be thrown into the washing machine, and if you have some fabric-safe disinfectant to hand, it would be useful to add this to the wash along with your usual detergent. 

If washing your mask by hand, ensure you use hot water and detergent, and give it a good scrub for 5 minutes, before rinsing it thoroughly and allowing it to dry completely.

Cake Face

If you ordinarily prefer a fuller coverage foundation and like to go to town on the concealer and powder, now might be the time to try a lighter option, especially whilst we’re all hiding half our faces.

Heavy makeup under the mask will increase maskne, as pores will start to block very easily at the points of contact under the mask. Opt for a tinted moisturiser or BB cream on the lower half of your face to ensure the pores aren’t constantly overwhelmed. The Boots No 7 City Light Tinted Moisturiser not only gives a moisture boost, but also offers an SPF 15.

The Double Cleanse

The significance of double cleansing at night is widely known, but this skincare step is now more important than ever! Start with a balm as the first cleanse, such as the Your Good Skin Nourishing Hot Cloth Cleanser, which will help to melt away any excess makeup remaining on the skin. 

Follow up with an exfoliating cleanse, to ensure all pores are properly scrubbed. Try the Superfacialist Vitamin C+ Gentle Daily Micro Polish for a soft scrub, or the Ole Henriksen Transforming Walnut Scrub for a deeper clean. 

Moisturiser

Finally, it is important to ensure there is a good barrier in between your skin and the mask to avoid irritation. Use a lightweight moisturiser with hydrating properties to keep your skin well looked after throughout the day, such as the Vichy Aqualia Thermal Gel Hydrating Moisturiser. 

While it seems face masks are here to stay, that doesn’t mean bad skin has to be. Hopefully these tips will help you keep spots at bay!

Disclaimer: We have an affiliate deal with Etsy, so if you do decide to buy face masks from Magic Stitch Designs, we make a bit of money (from Etsy, not Magic Stitch Designs - they still get the full payment agreed with Etsy).

Written by: Claire Bullen

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