Maskne: The New Skin Condition to Watch Out

Wearing a face mask together with the face shield has become the new norm. It is required to be worn at all times in public places as a barrier to slow down the spread of the Covid-19 virus that spreads through respiratory droplets. However, constantly wearing a mask can develop skin issues and breakouts, and this condition is known as Maskne or mask acne.

Maskne is a common side effect of using a face mask. According to Healthline, it doesn’t simply cause pimples, it may result to other skin issues like irritation, bumpiness and redness.

Skin conditions caused by wearing face mask

Acne. Sweat, make up, oil, dead skin cells can clog pores which can cause blackheads or whiteheads and pimples.

Rosacea. Wearing a face mask can flare-up rosacea - the skin condition that produce small, red, pus-filled bumps and causes redness and visible blood vessels in your face.

Contact dermatitis. Not all face mask may suit your skin. If you have a sensitive skin, the material of your mask may cause an allergic reaction which may result to blisters and red rash.

Folliculitis. Very tight wearing of the mask can result to Folliculitis. It is a skin condition in which hair follicles become inflamed.

Causes of Maskne

Clogged pores. Dead skin cells and oil can build up more when you wear a mask  and block your pores.

Sweating and breathing. Due to sweating and breathing, the mask traps humidity which may increase the risk of skin break out

Friction. The material of the mask you’re wearing can rub against your skin which may eventually lead to irritation.

Allergic reaction. Skin sensitivity to the material of your mask may cause allergic reaction. Masks washed in scented laundry detergents may also cause irritation to sensitive skin.

Prevention

Cotton made mask. We sweat more as the temperature rises, and we need to keep our mask clean at the same time. Most dermatologists suggest using a 100 percent cotton mask as it allows the skin to breathe a bit.

Skin care. Be wary of your skin care routine. Use a gentle facial cleanser and a non-comedogenic moisturizer which likely will not block your pores but will keep your skin hydrated.

No to makeup. Temporarily break up with make up when you go out.

Choosing and wearing the right mask

To avoid skin irritation and skin conditions mentioned above, be aware of the type of mask that you buy and wear.

Choose a mask that is made of soft and natural fabric like cotton. Choose the ones that has two or more layers of fabric for more protection.

Your mask must fit tight but not too tight.

Nylon and rayon are synthetic fabrics, so if you have sensitive skin, you must not wear masks made of these materials.

To help give skin a break, the American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends removing your mask for 15 minutes every 4 hours. However, be mindful, wash or sanitize or hands first and more importantly make sure you are far from the people around you or there are no people around you before taking a mask break. Moreover, use micellar water or a gentle cleanser to do a quick wash when you take it off.