Medical experts have confirmed that wearing a face mask while stepping out of the home is one of the effective ways to keep oneself safe from the Coronavirus and curb its spread. Wearing a mask out in public hasn't posed any real problems for most people, aside from mild annoyance. But for those with sensitive skin, masks have brought about an irritating condition:"Maskne", or acne cause by wearing a mask.
Acne Mechanica is a form of acne that is triggered due to excess heat, friction, pressure or rubbing of the skin. It is quite common in students, soldiers and athletes and can develop on the face or other areas of the body like the back and shoulders. The acne varies in appearance from tiny blackheads to red inflamed pustules.
Causes Of Mask Acne or "Maskne"
- Friction - Wearing a mask can cause irritation due to friction, especially around the mouth and the bridge of the nose. The pressure on the skin and the constant rubbing of the mask against the skin caused Maskne.
- Trapped Breath and Clogged Pores - Your mask can trap your breath, which can caused the skin in the area around your mouth and nose to be warm and moist. This can clog pores, thereby enabling bacteria to flourish and leading to acne and infections.
- Mask Fabric - Surgical masks and N95 masks are the most effective and common masks, but reusable cloth masks are gaining popularity. The cloth mask must be tightly woven and made from natural fibre like cotton. Choosing the right fabric for your mask is very important to ensure breathability as well as it being gentle on your skin.
Ways To Prevent Maskne
- Change your mask regularly. Ensure that you use a mask made using natural fibre like cotton. Wash it regularly to prevent build up of bacteria.
- Do not reuse surgical masks.
- Using a non-comedogenic moisturizer will prevent your pores from getting clogged.
- Skip the makeup.
- Wash your face. If you have sensitive skin that is prone to acne, wash it at least twice a day with a mild face wash. Avoid over washing your face to prevent dryness and inflammation of skin.
Importance Of Good Cleanser
Good quality, simple skincare does not have to be expensive fancy products. Just use light, gentle cleansers, not oily and not harsh. Avoid anything with SLS or Paraben, which is a harsh sulphate that really strip the skin of its natural oils and impairs the barrier. Here are some of our recommendations.
1. Fresh Line Micellar Cleansing Water
If you have to wear makeup under your mask, make sure you use a cleanser which is gentle on your skin but can still remove all your makeup thoroughly. Fresh Line Micellar Cleansing Water is powered by tiny micelles that act like a magnet to remove impurities and makeup, leaving the skin clean, calm and moisturized. Calendar and Chamomile extracts have soothing and comforting properties. Cucumber water hydrates and protects the skin. It has the same PH with skin and helps maintain its protective shield which wards off impurities while providing antioxidant protection. It's easy to use, just with a cotton pad with the Micellar Water, then wipe across the face, eyes and lips. No rinsing is required.
2. Fresh Line 3 in 1 Lavender Cleansing Foam
If a gentle everyday cleanser is what you are looking for, Fresh Line 3 in 1 Lavender Cleansing Foam is for you. It 1. cleanses 2. removes light make up 3. soothes and is suitable for all skin types. The liquid cleanser transforms into a lavish soft foam when pumped out of the bottle gently removing make up and impurities without stripping moisture. Ultra gentle sulphate fee, non irritating with extracts of Lavender and Linden tea offer soothing anti-inflammatory and purifying properties to the skin. Linseed provides a wealth of skin benefits as it contains fatty acids that keep skin smooth, preventing dehydration while offering antioxidant protection from environmental stressors. To use just pump a small amount and apply on wet skin and massage gently. Rinse well.
3. Demetra Skin Salve Remedy Face & Body Wash
For skin which is prone to irritations, allergies and redness or even someone who is not sure about their skin type the Fresh Line Demetra Skin Salve Face & Body Wash might just be the one for you. It cleans out impurities and dirt without dehydrating the skin. Formulated with a blend of herbal extracts and essential oils that provide anti-inflammatory, calming and mild antibacterial properties. The Chamomile essential oil provides soothing action and offers an immediate relief on irritated skin. It is also enriched with Evening Primrose Oil and Aloe that hydrates and calms inflamed skin. Its soothing formula makes it suitable for all skin types, so the whole family can enjoy the benefits. To use just lather on wet skin and rinse well.
4. Fresh Line Hermes Skin Salve Remedy Clarifying Face Wash
If you have acne prone skin then Hermes Skin Salve Clarifying Face Wash is perfect for you. This is an advanced purifying cleanser specially formulated for acne prone skin. It is free from synthetic foaming agents and removes excess oiliness without over drying the skin. It is enriched with a variety of antibacterial essential oils such as Tea Tree, Eucalyptus and Thyme and antiseptic botanical extracts that prevent breakouts. It contains Salicylic Acid that removes dead cells and prevents pore blockage. Green Clay cleanses and detoxifies the skin while the vitamin complex offers antioxidant protection and boosts skin immunity.
5. Loles Activated Charcoal Soap
If you prefer an all natural detox and deep cleansing soap then Loles Activated Charcoal Soap will be the one for you. Made with all natural activated wood charcoal, it provides a natural detox by absorbing dirt and oil to help eliminate and relieve acne and other problems. Formulated with the highest grade of natural ingredients, vitamin rich Shea Butter and Olive Oil, plus Tomato and Carrot powder to nourish and rejuvenate skin. Gentle enough for everyday use.
All the products listed here are free from Parabens, SLS, SLES, Phthalate and Colouring. You can visit us at our retail store at Thomson Plaza #01-26 or shop on our online store https://www.riwhomespa.com.