5 Simple Daily Habits That Will Help Combat Maskne Aka Acne Caused By Wearing Face Masks
No amount of pretty pastel masks, cute mask ribbons and mask storage cases can compensate for maskne, also known as acne caused by wearing masks.
If you've noticed more spots and bumps than usual appearing on the areas where your face mask covers, it might be maskne! Wearing a mask, while necessary in these times, traps bacteria, oils, dirt and pollutants in it. The moist environment under the fabric also allows bacteria to thrive. As it seeps into the skin, this triggers or exacerbates acne.
Keep reading to check out five simple habits that will help keep maskne at bay!
#1 Wash Your Face Before Putting On A Mask & After Taking It Off
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Putting a mask after cleansing your face will prevent oil and dirt from sitting against the skin. Once you reach home, wash your face immediately. Avoid facial cleansers that contain sodium lauryl sulfate, a harsh ingredient that irritates and strips the skin of its natural oils, making breakouts worse.
Try the cult-favourite Bioderma Sensibio H2O micellar water, an ultra-gentle makeup remover and cleanser that is suitable for even very sensitive and intolerant skin types. Check out the GirlStyle Beauty Award 2022 cleansers tried and tested by our team.
#2 Apply Moisturiser & Wait Before Wearing A Mask
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A layer of moisturiser can be beneficial to your skin by acting as a barrier against chafing or irritation. After applying moisturiser, wait about 15 minutes or until it has completely absorbed into the skin before putting on your mask. This helps prevent a moist environment under the mask that may trigger or worsen breakouts.
#3 Use 100% Cotton Masks
Masks made of synthetic fabric may be cheaper, but the material spells bad news for the skin. Synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic and rayon are not breathable so it creates a humid environment for bacteria to grow and breakouts to thrive. Cotton is the best material for face masks as it's a breathable material. Try this 100% Organic Cotton Mask ($16.49).
#4 Change Your Mask Throughout The Day
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
If you're wearing the same mask all day, bacteria and oils may be accumulating on your skin. Bring spare masks when you're out so you can switch to a new one throughout the day.
#5 Go Light On Your Makeup
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Some makeup products to avoid are oil-based foundations that could contribute to clogged pores under a mask as well as glossy lip products which may stick to the mask. If you can't go without base and lip products, apply a thin layer of a lightweight, oil-free foundation and stick to lip products that have a transfer-free finish.
Know someone who is struggling with mask acne too? Share this article with them!
Text by: GirlStyle SG
