Acne is a condition that we are all familiar with, and many of us have experienced it ourselves. Acne often appears during adolescence and into adulthood and may flare with certain dietary triggers, stress and hormone activity.
It seems that COVID-19 has left no part of our lives untouched and in recent times a new manifestation of acne has risen -‘maskne’. Maskne is the colloquial term used to describe the congestion and breakouts that occur due to mask wearing. The affected skin is that which is covered by our mask -chin, jaw, nose and cheeks.
Although acne is a complex condition, it seems as though the friction of mask against skin and the entrapment of our warm breath within the mask are two major factors in the development of maskne.
The warmth and moisture trapped under our masks may alter the flora of our skin, and this can promote the over growth and activity of normal bacteria and skin mites (dermodex). These factors culminate in the formation of blackheads, whitehead and pustules, and can also trigger flares of rosacea and dermatitis.
So, considering that mask wearing will be something many of us have to do for some time to come, how can we reduce unwanted side effects such as maskne and skin irritation?
Skincare of course!
Although there is no magic bullet when it comes to getting rid of maskne, some carefully chosen skincare and ingredients can certainly help minimise the problem.
Cleanser: The Pursotat 5 Cleanser is a great option for treating congestion and breakouts. It offers a very gentle form of exfoliation thanks to the addition of L-lactic acid. Canadian willow herb offers anti-irritant and anti-oxidant benefits, and the gentle yet satisfying lather that many off us enjoy is thanks to coconut derivatives.
Serum: For skin irritation and inflammation, niacinamide is an ingredient you simply cannot miss. The beautiful #1 Serum from rationale delivers a light weight and hydrating dose of niacinamide to the skin in only a few small drops. Whether you are experiencing breakouts or general skin irritation, this ingredient is one that every person needs in their skincare routine.
Mask: Treating maskne with a mask? Yes, we do recommend a weekly mask treatment to help keep your skin in equilibrium -very beneficial while we can’t see you for in clinic treatments!
For breakouts and congestion, we love the Super Fruit Enzyme Exfoliator. It has a gentle formulation of pineapple, papaya and goji berry extracts to help breakdown and clear congestion.
For skin irritation, the Hyaluronic Masque from Eneomey is perfect. Formulated with anti-inflammatories allantoine and aloe vera this mask is the perfect antidote to red, dry and irritated skin.
Spot treatment: Maybe you only have a few spots here and there giving you some grief? The Stop Spot from aspect is the perfect remedy, with niacinamide and salicylic acid at the ready to help decongest and minimise inflammation.
Moisturiser: Hydrating & anti-inflammatory -you know the drill! The perfect all rounder for inflammation, irritation and congestion is the Isorepair moisturiser from Biretix. Great for restoring and maintaining barrier function, super refreshing and non-greasy, this moisturiser leaves no one disappointed.
So, now you know a little more about maskne and how you can manage this pesky condition!
If you do have any questions remaining, or need some help with skincare, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Email cosmetic@skindepth.com.au to speak with one of our friendly Dermal Clinicians who can guide you through all things skincare.
