4 Tips to Prevent Acne Caused by Face Masks (Maskne)

Is the face mask duty a real disaster for your skin? Then you’re definitely not alone! Face mask acne or “maskne” for short really exists. Fortunately, there are ways to treat – and prevent – it.

What is Maskne?

Maskne means that you get impurities or pimples due to the mask’s constant friction on your face. This acne is also called “acne mechanics” and is common in people who wear a mask for a long time.

In addition to the constant friction on the skin, maskne is also caused by pores that become clogged by sweat, fat, makeup and bacteria that accumulate on your skin under your mask. Result? Pimples, inflamed hair follicles and irritated or red skin.

How can you prevent maskne?

If you’re suffering from maskne– or you’re worried about getting pimples from your mask soon – then there’s good news: there are some things you can try.

1. WASH AND REPLACE YOUR MASK REGULARLY

Whether you bought a reusable cotton mask or made one yourself, the rule remains the same: it is vital to keep your mask as clean as possible so that no bacteria and dirt can accumulate in the fabric. To prevent your mask from leaving dirt on your skin, we recommend washing your mask at a high temperature after wearing it for one full day.

If you’re wearing disposable masks, replace them after using them once. Do not try to touch the mask with your hands: put it on and off again with the elastic bands or ribbons.

2. CLEANSE YOUR SKIN TWICE A DAY

Dirt, grease, sweat and bacteria can quickly accumulate on the skin under your mask, so to avoid maskne, it’s critical to wash your face before and after wearing a face mask.

If you have sensitive skin, opt for soft products, such as Clarins Hydrating Toning Lotion. This lotion is rich in vegetable extracts and soft on the skin, not to irritate your skin any more.

Are you prone to acne anyway? Then opt for a cleanser with salicylic acid to visibly reduce and prevent pimples.

It can be tempting to start washing your face more often, but stick to your normal morning and evening routine – otherwise, you might get dry, red or irritated skin.

3. HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE

It is important to keep your skin as hydrated as possible throughout the day so that the natural protective layer can do its job. Treat your skin to an intense moisturizing cream in the morning, such as Clinique Moisture Surge 72-Hour Self-Hydrating Cream, to maintain moisture balance throughout the day. This gel-like cream quickly draws into the skin and contains aloe vera for hydrated and radiant skin.

If you don’t have a lot of time, you can opt for products with a dual function. Your Skin But Better by IT Cosmetics is not only a setting spray but also a moisturizing cream. That’s exactly what your skin needs under your face mask, especially if you’re using makeup. This setting spray not only offers a long shelf life that keeps your makeup in place all day long but contains hyaluronic acid and aloe vera, top ingredients that hydrate your skin even better.

4. GO FOR A MINIMALIST LOOK

Your pores already have to fight against sweat and bacteria under your mask, so it’s best not to add a thick layer of makeup to that as well. If you put your mask on and off during the day and want to correct some imperfections, then a tinted day cream or BB cream is a good compromise.

Does your skin feel a little sensitive? Then try the velvety formula of Erborian BB Cream. If you are looking for a BB cream with all the benefits of moisturizing cream, we can recommend you Nude Finish Tinted Moisturiser from Bobbi Brown. And finally, for a super-light formula with SPF 15, you’re in the right place with the BE Creative Makeup Hydrating BB Cream.

If you can’t go through life without makeup, now is the perfect time to get creative with your eyes. If half your face hides under a face mask, and you can’t show off your perfect smile or collection of lipsticks, you can still indulge in eyeshadow, eyeliner and mascara to create an eye-catching look!