FASHION + BEAUTY
MASK FRIENDLY SKINCARE
FROM DISPOSABLE THROWAWAY TO FASHION FORWARD ACCESSORY , MASKS ARE OUR NEW ADDITION TO THE DAILY ROUTINE . BUT WHILST THEY MAY BE PROTECTING US FROM A GLOBAL PANDEMIC , THEY ARE CAUSING HAVOC WITH OUR SKIN . BY JESS MARSHALL
Ahh face-masks , who could have predicted that our latest leave-the-house accessory would be in the form of a disease-fighting facial covering ? Whilst an essential weapon in our global war against Covid , the one thing they are certainly not protecting is our skin . And as we venture out more often , many are reporting skin conditions being brought on by the use of masks , with the newly coined ‘ maskne ’ - a form of acne caused by sweat , oil and bacteria build up , creating the perfect conditions for breakouts - leading the skincare woes . With these problems becoming more and more common , and with no end in sight for mandatory mask wearing , it is more important than ever to look after our skin in a way that can combat these problems . So we ’ ve got the experts at the ready , the best lotions and potions around , and some sage advice about how to step up our beauty routines to keep our skin as fresh and glowy as it was in 2019 .
Firstly , we should probably explain what maskne is , why so many of us are beginning to suffer with it , and what other unintentional side effects wearing masks are having on our unsuspecting faces . Canterbury-based dermatologist Dr Mark Hudson-Peacock explains : ‘ Masks that occlude the skin can cause or aggravate inflammation in the underlying hair follicles , with some potential worsening of acne and aggravation of some types of skin rash , including eczema . We are certainly seeing an increase in acne under face masks - some are calling this “ maskne ”.’ As previously stated , the moist , warm , bacteria-filled environment under masks is the perfect breeding ground for all manner of germs , but rashes , spots , swelling , and redness can also appear , as a result of ill-fitting masks and straps continuously rubbing on areas of the skin it comes into contact with . ‘ Wearing a mask covers the skin and creates an environment that reduces oxygen flow to the skin and results in a buildup of skin congestion and acne . In addition to this , the pressure from the mask itself against the skin creates increased friction which can result in irritation and damage to the skin .’ clarifies Dr Shirin Lakhani , a cosmetic doctor based at Elite Aesthetics in Greenhithe . Repeatedly using masks without cleaning them also allows built up bacteria to enter pores , causing blockages , and resulting in red , painful pustules , and breakouts . Dr Nitasha Buldeo , doctor and founder of skincare range Organic Apoteke , explains the importance of washing face masks regularly ; ‘ If masks are not cleaned appropriately , they can cause bacteria to enter pores and result in breakouts . Perspiration under masks in hot weather can cause congestion of skin pores and also result in spots and cysts .’ It ’ s not just skin that is affected , our lips have also fallen victim to the lack of air-flow and oxygen caused by wearing masks . This causes a build up of moisture , and results in lips cracking , flaking , and can even cause small abrasions in the corners and around our mouths .
Masks are obviously a non-negotiable in the trying times of 2020 , and though they may cause some irritations , they also keep us , and others safe from more deadly germs and airborne pollutants that are ready to dive down into our lungs , grab hold and do some serious damage . So what now ? Masks are mandatory , but we also want to look after our skin , and make sure we are feeling comfortable , and the best we can under the circumstances . So what ’ s the answer ?
One hell of a skincare routine .
One thing all experts seem to agree on , and something that we are probably all doing anyway , is to wash your face ! Not just twice a day , but at every chance you get . Yes , it ’ s a pain , especially if you ’ re wearing makeup , but keeping the area under our masks clean is the best way to combat any maskne that may be creeping onto chins . Use an antiseptic cleanser that is gentle on your skin , while also being tough on bacteria and the build-up of oils and spots . Abi Oleck , celebrity facialist and skin expert , concurs that cleansers are vital ; ‘ Wearing a mask will cause the skin to sweat and pores to become blocked with sebum and bacteria . Double cleansing morning and night is essential for keeping the pores clear of irritating toxins .’ Dr Sophie Shotter , of Illuminate Skin Clinic in West Malling , advises patients to change masks regularly , and when it is not needed to simply take it off all-together , allowing your skin time to recuperate and breathe . It is also important to make sure your mask fits properly to avoid any rubbing and chaffing that may occur otherwise . Dr Lucy Glancey from the Dr Glancey Clinics encourages her clients to ‘ Avoid certain materials that might irritate your skin , wear a snug but breathable mask that is not likely to rub against your skin and be too abrasive , preferably a cotton one .’
Another preventative tactic to battle against maskinduced acne , is to moisturise . Whether that be regularly applying some fruity scented lip balm , or drenching your face in some luxurious moisturiser both before and after wearing a mask , the aim is to create a barrier between you and the face-covering , allowing it to move easily on your face , and protect your pores from any toxins trying to burrow in there . Dr Lucy also advises that ; ‘ Dry skin and chapped lips are main symptoms of wearing a face mask . Invest in a good moisturiser to suit your skin type , whether it is oily or dry , as a face mask will exacerbate any skin problems . Reapply lip balm before and after wearing a mask and before bed .’
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