Wearing face masks has become a new norm in everyday life.
According to health experts, masks are one of the most crucial methods in preventing the spread of infection, and they are a required accessory almost anywhere you go.
Yet whether you’re wearing one for hours a day like our front-line workers, or just for short stints to go shopping, masks can bring a host of new skincare challenges.
One in particular is called “maskne.” That’s right — mask acne!
Read on to discover 7 ways to avoid this new condition!
1. Consider the type of mask you wear.
Some masks are gentler on your skin than others. Dermatologists recommend 100% cotton masks, as they allow your skin to breathe a bit. This is especially important during the summer, when the heat rises and you sweat more.
Note — dermatologists are not virologists, who may have different opinions on cotton masks.
2. Wash your mask every day.
By washing your mask daily, you can avoid the buildup of bad bacteria on your skin. Since a mask rests on your face, you constantly breathe into it. Combine this with sweat and heat, and you have the best environment for bad bacteria to thrive.
When laundering a mask, make sure to use the warmest recommended water setting and dry on the highest heat setting. Try adding a splash of white vinegar to the load for its anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties.
In other words, get rid of that bad bacteria!
3. Wash your face twice a day.
As with masks, you need to take care of the bacteria that’s building up on your face. Use a gentle cleanser to remove bacteria which builds up beneath your mask during the day.
4. Stop using makeup! (At least temporarily)
Yes, we still want to be beautiful. Even if you’re working from home, you might want to be ready for those video calls with your colleagues — and that’s perfectly fine!
Just don’t forget to keep your makeup to the bare minimum. This will allow your skin to breathe and reduce clogged pores, which can cause more breakouts.
5. Use a light moisturizer.
Stay well-moisturized to protect your skin’s defensive barrier. Consider treating yourself to a hydrating mask if your skin tends to be dry.
We know that reducing stress is easier said than done, and it’s extra hard to keep your cool in these uncertain times.
But all that extra anxiety may be impacting your complexion! Check out our article on all the ways stress can cause acne.
7. Reevaluate your skincare routine.
If you suffer from acne, this is a familiar routine. Maybe you’ve even tried these tips already!
But if you still don’t have glowing skin, consider our natural-based products. They have helped over 72,521 women to get rid of their acne!