Maskne: How to combat mask-induced acne

While mechanical acne—caused by the friction of a fabric or object—is nothing new to healthcare professionals and athletes, the widespread use of face masks has extended its incidence to a broader segment of the population and aggravated its manifestation in those already dealing with problematic skin.

The causes

Our skin's cell renewal cycle is continuous and lasts around 28 days. New cells are born in the dermis and make their way to the epidermis, replacing those that die on the surface and shed naturally. The constant rubbing of the mask interferes with this process, causing an occlusive effect on the pores due to the accumulation of this flaking, combined with sweat and environmental dirt.

Furthermore, breathing inside the mask creates a highly humid environment, which is ideal for bacterial proliferation.

The solutions

The mask.

If your professional activity allows it, set aside synthetic fabrics and opt for others that generate less friction, such as silk, and are more adaptable and breathable, such as cotton. These masks must be washed after each use, and it would be advisable to replace them two or three times a day. Just by doing this, we will be mitigating one of the causal factors.

Delicacy, personalized cosmetics, and consistency.

An aggressive approach will only contribute to worsening the situation. The key is to choose products that suit your skin's needs, effective for you while being hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and comfortable. Remember our philosophy: not everything is suitable for everyone.

If cleansing is probably the cornerstone of any health routine, here it becomes especially important. In these types of situations, a soothing cleanser is recommended, one that does not alter the skin's pH and respects the lipid barrier while fulfilling its function. Exquisite and delicate cleansing morning and night, without exception.

Gentle exfoliation will boost cell renewal by helping to remove dead cells, thus reducing the incidence of the other causal factor. The CORRECT exfoliant can be included in our routine twice a week without fear.

Less is more.

It is time to focus on calming and hydrating the skin, nothing more. Applying various products will contribute to what we want to avoid: clogged pores.

Thus, we will favor the use of moisturizers with low molecular weight and prolonged action that possess anti-irritant and even analgesic active ingredients that help us soothe the discomfort in the area to be treated. Good hydration will soften the feel of the mask, helping it to glide over the skin instead of "colliding" with it.

During the day and for the same reason, say goodbye to makeup. A good solution is to opt for sun care cosmetics with a touch of color. It will provide us with a good tone while preventing the lack of protection of the exposed facial areas that could get burned and/or hyperpigmented. At the end of the day, we must follow the same guidelines, putting aside for now the use of other active ingredients—acids in particular, such as retinol. In compensation, we can optimize rest and nightly repair to apply ad hoc products that act on inflammation and breakouts.

When all this passes (and it will), we will take specific actions to reduce the marks and spots that irritation and acne may leave behind... Now our goal is different, and the good news is that we have the means to achieve it.

At Beldon Beauty, we are here to help you. Our personalized diagnosis ensures that you will have what your skin, and not another's, needs. Because our philosophy is that the protocol is set by each person and that not everything is suitable for everyone. Consult us; we have a Customized Online Advice service.