Coronavirus May Be Bad, But Mask-ne Is Worse. Here’s How You Get Rid Of Breakouts Caused By Wearing A Mask

Coronavirus May Be Bad, But Mask-ne Is Worse. Here’s How You Get Rid Of Breakouts Caused By Wearing A Mask

Masks might be super uncomfortable but they keep you alive and certainly are better than ventilators which you’d probably need if you didn’t strap on one at this point of time (the cases have crossed 7 million in the country). However, it’s not just the discomfort and involuntary disguise that’s annoying, but it invites umpteen skin issues which we didn’t sign up for, case in point: maskne. I mean, coronavirus isn’t the only pandemic that we need to worry about right now. Due to wearing masks all day, we have another pandemic breaking out—breakouts.

Acne caused by masks, also known as maskne, is brutal and no one seems to be getting spared. It’s worse if you are already prone to acne or have oily skin as you are at a higher risk of dealing with acne induced by masks.

Maskne occur because your face is covered under a fabric for hours and sweat, oil and grime end up collecting and blocking the pores. This causes your skin to breakout and you start spotting red bumps near your jawline, chin and around the lips. But wait, it doesn’t mean you need to toss your face masks in the trash and put yourself at the risk of contracting the virus. You can follow some skincare tips to get rid of and control maskne and get healthy skin just like before. Here are some pro tips to keep maskne in check.

Also Read: From Brides To Us, Everyone Is Sporting Customised And Quirky Face Masks. It’s A Whole New Fashion Statement

Wash your face mask

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I really don’t need to tell you this but you are supposed to wash your face masks regularly and thoroughly. Not just because of the safety purposes, but also to keep your skin free of maskne. Wearing the same mask every day or even often isn’t safe or hygienic and can mess up your skin. The grime and dirt can sit on the face mask and transfer to your skin, causing acne. So, start washing your face mask after every use, if you haven’t been doing it already.

Cleanse your face

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The golden rule of skincare remains unchanged even in the pandemic—cleanse your face. After are done with wearing your mask all day, put the mask in the washer and cleanse your face with a nice face wash and scrub. It’s important to do away with the sweat, dirt and deep-settled oil to make sure your face doesn’t become a zit city. Wash your face and exfoliate once every two or three days. Also, carry some facial wipes handy and cleanse on-the-go to keep your skin squeaky clean and clear.

Pick your moisturiser wisely

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Before you reach for that mask, make sure you hydrate your skin well. Wearing a mask for long duration can dry your skin out which is the number one cause of acne (you’d know this if you’ve struggled with the skin problem in the past). Moisturising your skin and prepping it before putting on your mask is non-negotiable. Go for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser that will keep your skin hydrated throughout the day.

Let your skin breath

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Masks are made with triple protective layering to trap breathing droplets from being transmitted in the air. However, tface masks don’t allow your skin to breathe and the result is parched skin, accumulation of bacteria and eventually breakouts. To avoid this, steer clear of wearing a mask when at home or alone. Also, avoid wearing makeup like foundation on the area under the face mask as it blocks the pores too. Simply slap on some moisturiser and maybe channel your makeup skills on your eyes.

Don’t forget the skincare basics

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Apart from maskne, you could also fall victim to various other skin woes such as skin irritation, redness, chaffing and itching. To keep these in check, keep away from an ill-fitting or bad quality masks. Make sure the face mask has comfortable material and doesn’t leave you with strap marks on your face. That could break the skin collagen, cause itching and irritation and redness. And, you know the skincare basics—wear sunscreen (yes even under the mask), drink gallons of water and eat healthy to keep mascne (and basically any other type of acne) at bay.

Also Read: In 2020, We Are Not Hiding Our Skin Behind Makeup. Instead, We Are Embracing Being Natural

Anjali Agarwal

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