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Maskne: How to Avoid it?
Summary
- Maskne: What is it?
- Two ideas to combat maskne
- Which face masks should be prioritised for the prevention of maskne?
Published February 16, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
4 min read
Maskne: What is it?
By simple definition, "maskne" is a contraction of the words "mask" and "acne". Wearing a mask is mandatory when in a public space. For some people who are required to wear it for extended periods, the situation can be challenging. It has been observed that this can have quite detrimental effects on the skin. Indeed, the skin is constantly covered and not ventilated. This leads to a heat phenomenon that can trigger an abnormal production of sebum and an unexpected proliferation of all sorts of microbes. Translated through constant sweating and rubbing, the occasional itching caused by maskne can develop into eczema or severe acne for some individuals.
Two ideas to combat maskne.
Select a mask that does not harm your skin: To prevent the spread of the virus, various mask options are available for purchase over-the-counter and in pharmacies. For your health, only purchase masks that are certified. Surgical masks are the most commonly used. Made from cellulose fibres, they are not harsh on the skin. You might also consider using fabric masks, which are washable and reusable. Those made from cotton are the most recommended, as they are softer and therefore allow the skin to breathe more easily. Just remember the essential rule to change your mask at least every 4 hours and when it is wet or dirty.
Take good care of your skin: Ideally, try not to wear makeup to avoid overburdening the skin, instead focus your beautification on the eyes. Don't forget to cleanse it every day once you get home and drink plenty of water, this will help to deeply hydrate your skin.
Which face masks should be prioritised for the prevention of maskne?
Whether or not one has to wear a mask in daily life, a beauty routine is always in order. In addition to cleaning your skin daily, provide it with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
For oily skin, purifying masks aim to eliminate impurities. The accumulation of sebum, which is conducive to increasing blemishes and spots, is a characteristic of this type of skin. By removing this excess and deeply cleansing the epidermis, the skin becomes purified and its appearance becomes more mattified. Anti-seborrheic ingredients such as zinc are allies for oily skin.
As the name suggests, hydrating masks provide moisture to the epidermis. Given that the cheek area experiences the most friction with the mask, it requires care that will soothe and nourish it simultaneously. Prioritise components such as glycerine and hyaluronic acid in your products. Their role is to retain water in the skin, making it more supple and softer to the touch. This mask is suitable for all skin types.
Combination skin is characterised by dry and oily areas on the T-zone (extending from the forehead, through the nose, to the chin). Given the different nature of the skin, it is advisable to use several masks corresponding to each of these areas. Alternate between a moisturising mask to treat the dehydrated areas and a charcoal-based face mask for the shiny areas. This dual mask combining mattifying and light purifying care is the ideal treatment for combination skin.
You are now equipped to go out with your mask without fearing the appearance of small spots.
Diagnostic
Understand your skin
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