Wearing face masks while working and in public places is a new reality for many of us. If you have noticed that your skin is beginning to break out with acne or become dry and irritated, you’re not alone. In fact, this problem has become so common that it has been given the name “maskne” by some.
However, there are ways to keep your skin protected under your mask and reduce breakouts and irritation.
1. Prep your skin under your mask
Spray your skin with a protective toner such as Element 47 Skin Fortifying Mist that will make the skin less attractive to acne-causing bacteria.
Follow with a barrier repair moisturizer like Zerafite Barrier Repair. This will strengthen your skin’s barrier and its ability to hold onto water and keep irritants and pathogens out. This can also help to create a physical barrier between your skin and the mask.
Wear lip balm on your lips for the same protection. Lip balms contain occlusive ingredients, which create a seal between your skin and the mask.
Do not wear comedogenic (pore-clogging) cosmetics under your mask. Consider leaving your makeup off if you will be wearing a mask at work all day.
2. Do not reuse disposable masks
They will harbor bacteria, dirt, makeup and oil from the last time you wore it. If you want to reuse your mask, use a cloth one and wash it regularly. Just make sure you are not allergic to the laundry detergent you use to wash it, though.
3. Use the right treatment products at night
Always wash your face in the evening before bed. Use a cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type, or use a foaming cleanser to help deactivate viruses if you may have been exposed during the workday.
If you have dry skin and are using a foaming cleanser, be sure to follow up with a barrier repair moisturizer. Under ordinary circumstances, I do not recommend foaming cleansers for dry skin types because they strip away the skin’s natural oils.
You can also use acne treatment products that are appropriate for your skin type, such as retinoids, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. Call your dermatologist or schedule a virtual visit to discuss the best acne treatments for your skin if you have never used them before.
Bottom line
You do not have to be stuck with breakouts because you have to wear a mask while at work or in public places. Check in with your dermatologist if you have a specific skin concern such as acne so that you can begin using the proper products for your skin type. Many dermatologist’s offices are now offering virtual consults as well during this time.
By Leslie Baumann, M.D. Special to the Miami Herald