Taking Care of Your Maskne Skin

Has your skin broken out from wearing a facemask? Maskne stands for mask acne.

Here are some solutions on managing your skin during these challenging times:

• Use a gentle cleanser morning and night
• Exfoliate your skin using a very gentle exfoliant ONLY 1 x week
• Use a light moisturiser (not a heavy or occlusive moisturiser)

At this time is best to pair back to use of products including makeup on the skin.

If you are wearing a disposable mask this is a single-use only item as it will accumulate bacteria. Do not use this mask repeatedly and NEVER share masks.

If you are using a fabric facemask, it needs to be washed daily and allowed to dry thoroughly to minimise the accumulation of natural skin bacteria.

The use of moisturiser is critical during this period; however, even though it is winter, do not use heavy or thick moisturiser.

Skin Smoothing Cream (Dermalogica) is an excellent moisturiser that is lightweight, gives great moisturisation, increases skin hydration and one application is good for 48 hours. Moisturised skin functions better than dry or dehydrated skin.

Skin heals when you sleep, so get plenty of sleep.

Change your towel daily and if you have breakouts change your pillowcase every second day.

Avoid sitting very close to heaters as this will dehydrate the skin, which can lead to breakouts also.

• Do NOT pick or touch your skin
• Cleanse off your foundation and all makeup every day
• Use minimal makeup whilst wearing a mask, i.e.: foundation, powder, blush and lipstick
• Drink lots of water
• Avoid fatty, sugary and junk food
• Try to relax. Stress can trigger breakout as it may influence hormones
• Get some exercise
• Use only TEPID warm water to wash your face
• Be sure to wash/cleanse your skin regularly to minimise the accumulation of natural bacteria
• Wash your hair on a regular basis to manage oils
• Do NOT use harsh or drying products as spot treatments as it often traps the oil in the follicle
• Use less foundation and emphasise the eyes

Whenever it is safe, remove your facemask to allow your skin to breathe.

Be kind to your skin and to yourself at this difficult time. Less is more for your skin.