Skincare note for the squad: Tips on how to avoid “maskne”

In addition to the regular breakouts caused by stress and hormones, we also have to be aware of the breakouts caused by masks. This type of acne has been names “maskne” and it is exactly what it sounds like...unfriendly to your skin. This is no reason to be frightened, just more reason to switch up your skincare routine. 

At the moment, wearing a mask or face covering is the most effective tool that we have to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Although people seem to have opinions about it, wearing a mask has become the universal sign of respect and caring for your community. In the EarlyBird Squad, the masks have been our top source for funds to keep the Porridge Program running. 

What is “maskne”? 

Maskne is the skin irritation, pimples and blackheads on your cheeks, chin, and around your mouth. The difference between regular acne and “maskne” is that it is a result of the face coverings. The masks cause breakouts due to the combination of friction, heat, moisture and clogged pores. 

According to the dermatology experts, you can have maskne on top of your regular acne or other issues, making the maskne appear more as rashes like contact dermatitis or hives. This is not meant to alarm anyone but rather a caution to pay more attention to our skincare routines especially if you have oily or acne prone skin. 

  Tips for preventing maskne

Wash your masks

Just because they are reusable and reversible does not mean that they can skip the washes. In the spirit of doing little things with passion, the best thing to do is to regularly wash your masks. Depending on how often you wear them. 

 When it comes to the “maskne”, it is important to keep in mind the duration of time the mask is worn and whether there was sweating involved. If one worked all day with the mask on, then the best thing to do would be to wash it when the day ends. This is different from someone who steps out for a few minutes.

Carry a spare 

One of the many reasons we have our masks for 2 for $15 is that we know you need more than one. If not because of the fun prints to match your style, it is so that you always have a spare. Going to the gym or running an errand that involves sweat might require one to carry a spare clean mask to avoid “maskne”. 

Step up your skincare routine.

Maybe it's regular acne because of weather changes and the electoral stress, maybe it's maskne. The best thing to do is stay on top of your skincare routine. Washing your face regularly and being mindful of the products that work and don’t work is essential. 

Natural remedies like aloe, chamomile, coconut oil, avocado or clay mask can be useful when it comes to soothing the skin. Additionally, moisturizing creams can help restore the skin barrier being disrupted by wearing a mask. 

Toss disposable masks

For some people, “disposable” might mean that they reuse the masks for as long as they can before they throw them away. This is a mistake and can increase the chances of getting “maskne”. The best thing to do is dispose of the mask after the first wear because reusing them means that you are adding makeup and dead skin from the previous wear to your face. 

Drink more water 

That is really never bad advice. Water is not something that we take for granted. In addition to drinking water, it is good to be thankful that you have easy access to clean water.

Basically, to conclude on ways to avoid “maskne” it seems like the best thing to do is to buy as many masks from our fundraiser so that you never run out of clean masks. 
We are beyond grateful for your support. Please take care of yourself and your skin.