6 Tips On How to Prevent Acne From Your Face Mask
Face masks have become a requirement in this day and age, but no one likes the resulting acne. This is why it’s become important to understand what causes acne, how to manage it, what mistakes to avoid, and what needs to be included in your face mask and skin care routine to prevent acne.
Here are some of the most important causes and tips to focus on as a face mask wearer.
Causes of Acne From Face Mask
Clogged Pores
Due to moisture accumulation under the face mask, your pores begin to clog up. This has to do with the moisture soaking into the pores leading to conditions such as folliculitis (yeast/bacteria). Continued use of the face mask worsens this problem.
Friction/Irritation
Another cause involves endless friction to the same part of the face. When the face mask rubs on a specific part of the skin, it will begin to chafe, which exposes the skin to breakouts. This is a common issue near the ears and nose.
Dryness
The face mask can dry the skin and strip its natural oils. This can cause flaking, inflammation, and general sensitivity, which often leads to acne breakouts.
Tips for Preventing Acne
1) Change the Mask Regularly
The easiest and most effective change is to regularly swap face masks. Don’t wear the same one every day as it’s going to collect moisture and harm the skin. Instead, keep multiple face masks handy when going out and make sure they are clean.
2) Apply a Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer
Traditional moisturizers are wonderful, but they may not be as effective for face mask wearers. In this particular case, it’s best to move forward with a non-comedogenic moisturizer, which is designed to be light on the skin.
3) Use Pure Petrolatum After Taking Off the Mask
Pure petrolatum is a great option if the skin is dry and irritated. Rub this on the skin after taking off your face mask and washing your face. It will soothe the irritated areas and keep the acne away.
4) Use Ice Cubes
Ice cubes are an effective solution to help with inflammation and general breakouts. Since the skin is left under duress due to regular mask-wearing, it’s best to use ice cubes as a way to cool things down.
5) Wash Your Face First
Always wash your face before putting on a face mask. Make sure to use a good facial cleanser and moisturizer to ensure you are prepared for hours of wearing the face mask.
6) Never Wear Surgical Masks Twice
Surgical masks should only be worn once and then tossed out. The only time you can repeat is if it’s a cloth mask that has been washed thoroughly.
About The Dermatology and Laser Group
Acne can be a devastating sight after putting on a face mask, but it’s a common concern among men and women. This is why it’s essential to have a plan in mind to make sure the problem doesn’t become a persistent one.
By following the tips listed here, you’ll be well on your way to preventing acne caused by wearing your face mask.
The Dermatology and Laser Group is a modern dermatology facility based in Midtown, New York City. We offer advanced-grade, seamless medical and aesthetic skin care. Our patients are typically done with their visit all in a lunch break.
Call (212) 444-8204 today or complete our inquiry form here to schedule an appointment, and we look forward to speaking with you.
Arash Akhavan, MD is founder and owner of The Dermatology and Laser Group, one of the top centers for cosmetic procedures in New York City for over a decade. Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD is a Board Certified Dermatologist and an Associate Professor at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Akhavan is a Castle Connolly Top Doc, New York Magazine Best Doctor, and Super Doctor featured in The New York Times. Dr. Akhavan is a key opinion leader that has been featured on hundreds of media publications including The New York Times, Allure, Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, ABC News, Fox News, Fox 5, NY1, WPIX, and more. He has been featured on nationally syndicated television programs such as The Doctors.
Dr. Akhavan serves as an educator and lecturer for multiple aesthetic device and injectable companies. This allows his office access to newer technologies at an earlier date than other offices, as well as a higher level of expertise in the use of these devices. This, in turn, translates to more effective and safer treatments for our patients.
