Breaking Free from Maskne: Insights into the Causes and Remedies

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, wearing face masks has become an essential part of our daily lives. While masks play a crucial role in preventing the spread of the virus, some people have noticed an unexpected side effect—acne breakouts around the areas covered by the mask. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as “maskne,” has raised concerns among many individuals. In this blog post, we will explore the link between wearing a face mask and acne breakouts, as well as provide some tips and solutions to prevent and manage mask-related acne.

Understanding Maskne:

Maskne is a term coined to describe the acne breakouts that occur due to prolonged mask-wearing. These breakouts typically appear as:

• pimples
• redness
• irritation

around the mouth, chin, cheeks, and nose—the areas covered by the mask. While not everyone experiences maskne, it can be a frustrating issue for those who do, leading to lowered self-esteem and confidence.

Why Does Maskne Occur?

Several factors contribute to the development of maskne. The primary culprits include:

1. Friction and Irritation: The constant rubbing of the mask against the skin can cause friction and irritation, leading to inflammation and breakouts.
2. Increased Humidity: Wearing a mask creates a warm and moist environment, trapping sweat, oil, and bacteria against the skin. This can clog pores and promote the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
3. Occlusion: Masks create a barrier that prevents proper airflow, causing a buildup of oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, which can exacerbate acne.

Prevention and Management:

While maskne can be bothersome, there are steps you can take to prevent and manage it effectively:

1. Cleanse Your Face: Before wearing a mask, cleanse your face gently with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria. Afterward, make sure to moisturize your skin adequately to maintain its barrier function.
2. Choose the Right Mask: Opt for masks made of breathable and soft fabrics, such as cotton, to minimize friction and irritation. Avoid synthetic materials that can trap moisture against the skin.
3. Avoid Makeup: While it might be tempting to cover up mask-related blemishes with makeup, it can further clog your pores. Consider going makeup-free or using minimal products.
4. Take Mask Breaks: Whenever it is safe to do so, take short breaks from wearing the mask, allowing your skin to breathe and reduce moisture buildup.
5. Practice Good Mask Hygiene: Wash reusable masks regularly with fragrance-free detergent to remove bacteria and prevent the accumulation of oils and dirt. Disposable masks should be discarded after each use.
6. Spot Treatment: If you notice maskne breakouts, apply spot treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria.
7. Consult a Dermatologist: If maskne persists or worsens, consider seeking advice from a dermatologist who can provide personalized recommendations and treatments.

To learn more, click here and check out this summary from Gundersen Health System.

Remember to prioritize proper skincare, choose the right mask, and practice good hygiene. Together, we can protect ourselves from COVID-19 while keeping our skin healthy and happy. Incorporating Zinc into our daily routine is a highly beneficial practice that promotes skin health and helps minimize the risk of acne. To conveniently meet this requirement, the Asher Longevity Institute offers Twice Daily Multi supplements that are rich in Zinc. By including these supplements in our daily regimen, we can effectively enhance our overall well-being and enjoy the advantages of healthy skin.