5 Tips to Prevent Maskne and Face Mask Chafing

The coronavirus pandemic has changed the lives of people across the globe and the way we carry our daily routines, starting with the smallest actions and gestures. One of the most effective methods for stopping the virus from spreading is wearing a mask whenever we are in the vicinity of other people.

Unfortunately, wearing a mask for many hours a day can be uncomfortable, even when using certified medical devices. Face chafing from wearing the mask, as well as “maskne”, the breakouts caused by it, have become a nuisance for many people.

What Is Maskne?

Maskne is a blend of the words mask and acne and refers to acne mechanica. It’s the type of breakouts caused by wearing a mask for a long time. The skin is irritated by the friction, rubbing against the tight areas of the mask, accumulating humidity and pressure that the mask puts on the skin. During the warm season or in hotter areas of the world it has a higher incidence because of the heat, sweat and bacteria-thriving conditions. Here is what you can do to avoid this.

How to Prevent Maskne and Face Chafing

By following the rules below and being mindful about how you are wearing your mask, you’ll not only prevent maskne and face mask chafing, but also practice better safety protocols and make it more efficient.

1. Cleanse your face on a daily basis

A recommendation that should be followed with or without the mask, the proper cleansing of the skin reduces the risk of inflammation and clogging. It also keeps harmful bacteria away from your face. In order to prevent maskne and chafing, you have to use gentle cleansers that are specially formulated for your skin, so that your skin barrier remains intact. Avoid the use of perfumed products or those containing too much alcohol.

2. Change or wash your mask often

It’s very important to not overuse a mask, and to not contaminate it during wear. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you should wash your cloth mask after every use, and discard the medical range mask after a few hours of use, when you notice it has become moist. You can also disinfect it with a bleach solution.

3. Use a protective balm before putting the mask on

Because acne mechanica is caused by the physical aggressions on your skin, a protective balm that reduces friction and chafing can effectively prevent maskne. Select a face balm that nourishes your skin, keeps it moisturized and is non-comedogenic. We offer a high-quality face balm that is formulated to create a barrier between your skin and the mask, eliminating maskne before it even happens.

4. Carefully choose the type of mask you’ll be wearing

When it comes to skin problems, choosing breathable, natural materials is very important. Avoid masks make of vinyl, plastic or materials other than cotton. The cotton fibers are friendly with your skin, while still being dense enough to protect you from exposure to viruses. Only use at least two-layered masks that fit your face properly.

5. Adapt your beauty routine to mask-wearing

Even if your acne was under control before you started wearing a face mask, you might have to change your beauty routine with the introduction of this habit. If you do get breakouts now and then, use milder treatments for your spots, like salicylic acid. Keep your skin barrier strong with ceramides, and avoid using AHA/BHA exfoliants right before using the mask.

Keep your focus on moisturizing and cleansing.

While wearing a mask can be uncomfortable and sometimes causes side effects, we should do our best to live with it. Together with washing our hands regularly, it is the most effective preventive measure against COVID-19.