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What Is Maskne, and How You Can Deal With It?

Woman with Maskne (Mask Acne)

What is Maskne

Maskne, or mask acne, is a creative portmanteau that describes acne that is typically caused by mask-wearing. If you’ve noticed a surge of outbreaks since wearing your mask then we’ve got some helpful information on what’s causing that breakout, how to fix it, and how to avoid your new inflammation.

Why do I get pimples from wearing a face mask?

If you don’t usually experience pimples then they may have surprised you once you started wearing a facemask. Here’s why you’re breaking out:

Your skin can't breath

Dead skin cells no longer have an easy way to escape. Unde your mask they may be pressed or scraped together into one area and force back into the skin, clogging pores and creating problems for your complexion.

It's too moist, and the humidity leads to pimples

In the same way that your skin is more prone to breakouts in the heat and summer months your mask has created a greenhouse effect, trapping heat and moisture against your face. This stagnant environment is the perfect conditions for pimples and breakouts.

How to Treat Maskne

Prevention is the best approach to avoiding maskne, but what happens when you wear a mask for hours each day? How do we increase our safety against COVID and still have great skin?

Adopt a good skincare regimen

Wearing a mask might even mean skipping that makeup (after all if you’re behind a mask then who needs foundation, right?). Skip the coverup and let your skin breath. 

Be sure to wash your face before and after mask-wearing. This doesn’t mean you have to wash every time you change your mask, or frequently, but you want to wash your face at least once in the morning, and again at the end of the day. The AlumierMD Acne Balancing Serum contains salicylic acid to help resolve blemishes and an antimicrobial complex that keeps acne-causing bacteria at bay.

Find a breathable mask that fits correctly

Finding a mask that fits the shape of your face and mouth is important. With so many choices it shouldn’t be hard to find many options. Your acne might even be caused by the type of material used in the mask. Cotton is cooler and more breathable. If you’re relying on a reusable mask then be sure to wash it daily to get rid of any build-up, oil or dirt.

Make sure that your mask allows you to move your mouth and talk without too much rubbing. Experiment with retying the strings behind your head, instead of around the ears.

Pro Tip: Wash with AlumierMD Acne Clarifying Cleanser to deep clean your pores and clam the skin for a clearer complexion. The Oligopeptide-10 will actually help improve the appearance of any breakouts.

Done with the maskne thing and looking to create or boost your skincare plan? Schedule a free virtual consultation with our skincare specialist today. In just a few minutes you’ll have answers to your questions and a clear path forward.