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If you’ve been experiencing annoying breakouts from your face mask, you’re not alone. Maskne has become a thing, but thankfully, there are a few key ways to treat those pesky pimples — while preventing others from popping up. We took a closer look at some skincare solutions.
When you’re looking for maskne treatments, there are a few key ingredients to keep an eye out for. Benzoyl peroxide, for instance, can help reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria. Salicylic acid is also helpful, because it can bring down inflammation and clear blocked pores. You might also consider retinoids, which slough off dead skin cells and can help control blackheads and whiteheads.
Some beloved skincare brands have even come out with full collections of products specifically designed to help treat and prevent maskne.
When we wear masks for a prolonged period of time, an excess of oil, sweat and bacteria can get trapped, leading to unfortunate breakouts. “Maskne is caused by a build up of bacteria under the mask and a reaction to formaldehyde and other chemicals in the mask fabric,” Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Leslie Baumann notes. Baumann has her patients apply a toner underneath their masks to protect their skin.
Additionally, the friction between the mask and your skin can cause a pesky cocktail of irritation, dryness and itchiness. These issues are particularly heightened for people who already struggle with acne, rosacea and eczema.
N95 masks can potentially contribute to maskne because they’re sealed so closely to the face, leading to more irritation. If you’re able to wear a less form-fitting mask, you might consider a silk option, which is gentler on the skin and causes less friction. The only downside is that the material offers less protection, so you should look for silk masks that have multiple layers and filters.
Breathable cotton masks are also a great bet. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Paru Chaudhari — who specializes in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne and rosacea — says a lightweight cotton mask causes the least amount of irritation to the skin.
If you’ve changed up your mask and are taking care of your skin accordingly, but you’re still dealing with acne, give these tips a try.
Acne is a frustrating side effect of wearing a mask for an extended period of time. But it can be combatted with the right products and daily hygiene practices.
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