Oh no!! Maskne! Is your mask causing skin irritations?

Maskne. It’s a thing now, and for some of us, the struggle is real.

But what is it? What’s causing it, and what can you do about it.

What is Maskne?

Mask induced acne and blemishes or a general irritation behind your mask, known as Maskne.

It’s not a new condition but unfortunately far more common now that NSW health orders require us to wear masks in specific settings.

And, when you’re wearing a protective mask to reduce exposure to COVID19, you may find a change in your skin.

Your once clear skin is beginning to break out. Or, you’re not breaking out by your skin’s becoming clogged and congested or red and irritated?

What causes Maskne? 

Maskne is caused when a mask is worn tightly on the face for long periods trapping oil and moisture; this is known as occlusion when something (your protective mask) blocks the opening of the skin follicle, known as a pore.

Moisture, oil, dirt and dead skin cells can become trapped in your skin’s pore and, if left untreated, will cause clogging, blemishes and breakouts.

So what can you do?

As long as wearing a mask remains a regular part of life, the risk of clogging, breakouts, blemishes and general irritation may become more commonplace.

And while ditching the mask would be the ideal solution, that’s not going to be possible in the foreseeable future as we learn to live with COVID19.

But, with this new reality, we have solutions that may help reduce the incidence of mask induced skin irritation and acne.

Let’s start with your cleansing routine. 

Now is not the time to skip your cleansing, nor is it time to over-cleanse your skin, although we know, if you’ve been wearing a mask all day, it’s a tempting idea; however, increased cleansing can strip the skin and worsen the problem.

Make sure you’re using the correct cleanser for your skin type.

Oily skin with a bacterial infection will benefit from a cleanser that controls bacteria while controlling oil flow and unclogging dead cells building up in the follicle.

Or, if you’ve noticed your skin is becoming dry and irritated, ensure your cleanser is normal to dry skin and if you’re wearing makeup, always double cleanse. 

Not sure of your skin type? You might like this article: What’s the difference between dry and dehydrated skin?

Environ Focus Care Clarity+ Sebu Wash Gel Cleanser

This cleanser is specifically designed for oily skin types developing acne conditions, such as congestion, breakouts and blackheads.

A gel cleanser containing tea tree oil refines and cleans the skin, controlling bacteria and infection while reducing oil flow with each use.

Suitable for normal to oily skin types, especially acne-prone skin.

Retail: $72.00

Cosmedix Purity Clean

Purity Clean is an Exfoliating Cleanser that gently lifts away dirt, oil and impurities as it balances and clarifies the skin for a softer, more radiant-looking complexion.

Formulated with a genius blend of 5% L-Lactic Acid, Tea Tree Oil and energizing Peppermint Essential Oil.

Purity Clean produces a rich lather with water to help unclog congested pores, minimize excess shine and improve the look of uneven texture and discolouration with each use.

Skin is left feeling rejuvenated, balanced and glowing.

Retail: $70.00

Mask off? Masque up.  

Choosing a weekly masque treatment will go a long way in preventing a build-up of oil, dead cells and surface debris, which can all clog the skin and lead to breakouts.

Environ Sebu Masque is perfect if your skin is oily, congested and breaking out, and Cosmedix Detox Charcoal Masque is wonderful for keeping the skin detoxified. 

Cosmedix Detox Mask

Ultra-purifying and uber gentle, Detox Activated Charcoal Mask works like a magnet to draw out pore-clogging dirt, oil and daily impurities while cleansing away age-accelerating pollutants for a flawlessly fresh, smoother-looking and clarified complexion.

Retail: $90.00

Improve your skin’s barrier protection. 

During the day and when it’s safe to do so, remove your mask and spritz your skin with a protective serum spritz like Synergie Skin’s Enviro Shield or Environs Anti-pollution Spritz.

Both have essential ingredients to improve your skin barrier function, improve the skin’s resilience, and keep the skin fresh all day.

Environ Focus Care Comfort+ Anti Pollution Spritz

Packed with useful ingredients to protect the skin, including the propriety blend known as Pollustop®, which assists in forming a protective surface barrier to shield the skin from outdoor and indoor pollutants.

Actibiome rebalances the skin’s microbiome. Vitamin C is blended with plant extracts to deactivate the effects of pollution and improve skin resilience, and Niacinamide B3 protects and repairs the skin barrier from past and future damage.

Call us to order on 8034 2140.

Retail: $94.00

Synergie Skin Enviroshield Spritz

Enviro-shield is a daily anti-pollutant spritz designed to protect against the harmful effects of airborne pollutants and infrared damage.

Recent clinical studies have shown that infrared damage is just as destructive to the skin as UV rays and is also a key contributor to photo-ageing.

Infrared-induced visible symptoms to the skin barrier can include a dull complexion, skin irritation, dehydration, uneven skin tone and pigmentation.

Call us to order on 8034 2140.

Retail: $89.00

Changing your protective mask throughout the day. 

If it’s possible, change your mask throughout the day to keep your face fresh. And if you can opt for a cloth mask that absorbs oils. Better for the environment and better for you.

Stress control. 

We’re living in stressful times, and this can often reflect in our skin. So, while Maskne may not be a concern for you, other skin conditions may be flaring up due to the additional stress of lockdown. 

Sensitive skin conditions like rosacea or vascular sensitivities can flare up.

At this time, it’s helpful to find ways to be kind to yourself and destress. I know easier said than done. 

But, even if the best you can manage is a quiet moment soaking in a warm bath with your favourite facial masque, it’s something and may help a little with frazzled nerves.

Hunter Candles

A selection of fragrant candles to help you find calming relaxation. Available in various scents – available in our online shop.

Retail: $45.00

We will get through this! 

If you have any concerns about your skin and need advice, you can reach us on 8034 2140. 

See you soon.

Mel x