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Let’s Talk Maskne. Now that face masks have become an essential part of everyday life thanks to Covid-19, I’ve had a lot of clients come to me asking about new breakouts from wearing masks.

We can all do our bit, helping to protect everyone, by regularly wearing a face mask. Still, it can have an unfortunate side-effect: mask-induced acne, aka “maskne”. Of course, this is never an excuse to stop wearing masks, but it is a problem with which anyone who’s had unwanted spots can sympathise.

What exactly causes maskne? 

There may be some obvious reasons why you’re having breakouts. The constant rubbing of the masks against our skin causes micro-tears, thus allowing easier entry for bacteria and dirt to clog up our pores. The dreaded spots then appear out of nowhere. Then there’s that moist, damp environment underneath your mask perfect for bacteria to breed! 🙃

Breathing into a mask creates a hot and moist environment that leads to the build-up of sweat, oil and bacteria. Add on the fact that face masks are occlusive [designed to block things] by nature, and it’s a recipe for skin disaster.

What can I do? 

Try to go for more lightweight, water-based products, instead of thick, occlusive skincare creams (such as enriching creams). My DIBI Milano pH control acid cream-gel was specially formulated to reduce blemishes and counteract the formation of residual marks, purifying the pores. It is ideal for acne-prone skin and Noncomedogenic.

Underneath the mask, a lightweight moisturiser can also act as an additional protective barrier and prevent chafing. You should also try to use a mild and gentle daily exfoliator, with AHAs to support the absorption of your moisturiser.

BHA’S will be your best friend in combating spots such as salicylic acid. The Pure Equaliser Astringent two-phase tonic contains salicylic acid, as well as other specific ingredients such as kaolin to absorb any excess oils, and lactic acid to gently exfoliate.

Jojoba oil applied after your evening routine can help calm down the inflammation, due to its antibacterial properties. It is also the closest texture to your sebum (oil), which tells your skin not to produce as much, helping to calm it down even further.

Lastly, I have a dedicated treatment that addresses acne-prone skin and active breakouts: my pure equalising purifying facial for acne-prone skin, with a powerful anti-imperfection purifying effect. The complex of active ingredients deeply cleanses oily/impure skin. It rebalances the skin’s microbial flora, preventing new blemishes from forming, leaving the skin smoother and more even.

Summary 

So, in short, keep wearing masks to protect yourself and everyone else, use lightweight moisturisers and add in new additions such as AHA’s and BHA’s

As always, if you are struggling, please contact me – Let’s see how I can help!

Love DermaGuru x

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