Maskne

One of the newest additions to the Urban Dictionary is mask + acne = maskne. Face masks trap moisture, sweat, oil, and dirt and keep it close to our skin. When we breathe or talk through a mask, we create moisture that changes our skin’s natural PH that can result in an overgrowth of bacteria that can make rosacea flare, inflame hair follicles, and cause breakouts.

Health-care workers who must wear tightly fitting N95 medical masks for long hours can experience bruising, pressure ulcers, and rashes. Surgical masks are not as tight, so they are not as damaging to the skin, but they are also not as protective—they capture droplets, but not small particles. Fabric face coverings are looser fitting, but they can affect our skin as well.

Fabric face coverings absorb natural oils which can make our skin overcompensate and produce even more oil, which leads to breakouts. When masks become soiled, damp, or are worn for many hours, the buildup of germs, sweat, makeup, lip balm, oils, and even residue from detergents or fabric softener can make skin conditions worse.

Masks made from silk are a good option because silk is naturally antimicrobial, but silk is soft and tends to gap which makes it less effective at stopping the spread of droplets. For people with sensitive skin, coverings made of natural fabrics like silk, linen, or cotton are probably best but whatever material we choose, all fabric masks and face coverings need to be washed frequently.

Wash fabric masks in mesh bags to keep elastic or ties from snagging. Masks can be laundered along with regular clothing, preferably in hot water, and tumbled dry. If you must wash your masks by hand, lather them with soap and hot water, and scrub then scrub them for at least 20 seconds before tossing them in the dryer. No dryer? Hot, midday sun is probably the next-best option.

To prevent irritation, wear a clean mask whenever possible. Before donning a mask wash your face with a gentle cleanser, then smooth on a soothing, hydrating skin cream to increase skin barrier function. It’s probably a good idea to skip aggressive exfoliating treatments for the time being and to avoid heavy makeup that could contribute to clogged pores.

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser after you remove your mask, and smooth on a soothing moisturizer. Our faces need a little extra tender, loving care when we wear a mask, but along with annoying breakouts, women are getting a break from wearing makeup and men can take a break from shaving because when we’re wearing a mask … nobody knows! 

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