2020 has made face masks the most popular (and necessary) accessory. Whilst it’s vital in reducing the risk of catching and spreading coronavirus, the constant covering of our face sadly hasn’t always done wonders for our skin. Many people have been suffering with ‘Maskne’, spots, rashes, and even some peeling, as a result of wearing their face masks over long periods.
How to Avoid ‘Maskne’
The simplest technique to avoid the dreaded Maskne comes down to the mask itself. Try to invest in a breathable cotton or silk face mask if you can, they’re also more comfortable than other fabrics to wear.
It’s also really important to ensure you’re keeping your mask clean. Not only is this safer, but it also prevents excess dirt building up in the mask which aggravates the skin. Be sure to wash your mask at a minimum 60 degree heat once you’ve worn it (for a maximum of four hours).
Shake Up Your Skincare
A considered skincare routine will also reduce the risk of breakouts and irritation. Take a look at our top tips below…
The Double Cleanse
If you’re yet to enter the world of double cleansing, here’s what it means. You should use both an oil based and a water based cleanser (in that order) to dig deep – literally to your skin.
For the oil cleanser, we recommend Elemis’ nourishing cleansing oil. This step is most useful for removing make up and dirt from the day. More importantly, it’s vital this is done with clean hands, a cloth or mitt, or a device. Be sure to spend time massaging the oil into your skin for the best results.
If you have more sensitive skin, you should utilise this cleanser by Pai Skincare. The best part? All their products are organic or natural, vegan, and cruelty free.
For your second step, utilise a hydrating cleanser to freshen up the skin. This offering from Pai Skincare includes a cloth for use whilst you cleanse.
Exfoliate and Tone
Exfoliation is important to do two or three times a week. It buffs away your dead skin cells, keeping everything as clean as possible when you’re wearing your face mask. Utilise the Elemis Enzyma peel from your Glow Getters gift set, which, with seven active ingredients, smooths and brightens up your complexion.
A toner boosts your skin hydration. A spray toner, like this one from Pai Skincare is ultra easy to apply. It rebalances the skin and is also a hydrator. You can utilise this spray throughout the day, not just as a part of your AM and PM routine to combat your Maskne.
Hydration, hydration, hydration
After you’ve toned your skin, there’s even more hydration to be done. A serum is also important to protect your skin from future damage, be it ageing, pollution or more. This serum from Murad is worth investing in, it protects your face from the harsh elements, as well as boosting radiance, all whilst using Vitamin C technology to smooth the skin.
Moisturiser is an important step in any skincare routine, but especially trying to reduce the effects of Maskne. A moisturiser gives your skin the opportunity to repair itself, and should be the last step of your skincare routine. If you have dry and sensitive skin, try this skin repair moisturiser by Liz Earle. For more oily/combination skin, the light version is better to use.
Skincare Face Masks
Finally, be sure to use a face mask – the other type. Not only does a face mask help you to kick back and relax, it’s also great for aiding and preventing future breakouts and Maskne. Try this one by REN, which also reduces breakouts and clears skin when used two to three times a week.
Words: Maria Loizou
