Skincare: Under The Mask

Wearing a mask has been a part of life since 2020. It helps to protect us from COVID-19. And as a side benefit, has become a bit of a fashion statement. But the downside is what it is doing to our skin. Many of us, myself included, are starting to suffer from what is now being called, maskne.

And what is maskne? As you may have already guessed, it is acne is caused by daily mask wearing. According to board-certified Dr. Seemal Desai, an assistant professor at the Univeristy of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, "We're seeing lots of flares of acne, especially a type called perioral dermatitis, which tends to happen typically around the mouth and in the areas around the nose," (full article can be found here ). Something else we can thank COVID-19 for. Sigh! So, what to do about it?

Well, first thing, make sure you are cleaning your mask daily. Especially if you are working out. As you can imagine, dirt and germs build up on any material, so think about that build up going on your face everyday.

Next, clean your face at least twice a day. And you don't have to use harsh cleansers or facials scrubs.

Gentle cleansers, using your fingertips are recommended, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Medical Center. She also says, "No instruments, no buff puff, no loofa, no washcloth, your fingertips are all you need," she said. "Pat your face dry with a clean towel, and put on a light moisturizer that is fragrance-free." A light cleanser I would recommend is Rice Water Bright. It cleanses and moisturizes, so perfect for a busy morning!

"Finally, at night after cleaning with gentle products, it's OK to put on a moisture-rich cream to repair the skin barrier and hold in moisture", she said. My night routine is very simple. I work full time, plus my biz, so by the time I am ready to call it a night, I need something very simple and something that does not take a lot of time. I use cleansing wipes and a light moisturizer. That's it. Then I'm ready to hit the hay!

Lastly, try to avoid wearing heavy make-up as it keeps dirt and bacteria in the skin. And don't forget about your lips! Use lip balms or lip serums. Lip glosses can stick to the inside of the mask, and no one wants that!

I hope that this has been helpful to you. If you need more assistance with finding the right skin care for you then, click here for skin cleaners, toners and moisturizers.

So remember: Clean your masks. Cleanse your face at least 2 times a day and moisturize. Stay away from heavy make-up and use lip balms instead of stick lipsticks or glosses.

Till next time!