What is it and how to treat it?
So, it’s been over a year and there’s still no sign of masks being a thing of the past, and MASKNE is still a thing most people struggle with.
The technical name for Maskne is actually, Acne mechanica. This is a common form of acne which occurs from repetitive physical trauma to the skin such as rubbing, occurring from clothing or this case masks. As well as the friction the skin is not getting enough exposure to air and this also contributes to the formation of acne mechanica.
Since we’ve started wearing face coverings I’ve helped guide health care workers and nurses in treating their Maskne. They have found their skin is sore, irritated and breaking out due to the long hours. Flare ups of acne, perioral dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis around the mouth and nose are also becoming common from wearing masks.
If we wear a mask for long periods of time, we have an increased moisture rich environment where bacteria will flourish. Combined with heat trapped by the mask, sweat, and friction it’s a skin nightmare waiting to happen! So, what can we do prevent or control Maskne? Well there are a few basic rules to wearing a mask that everyone should follow, and I also will share my top products firt
What can you do?
There are two types of masks to choose, a disposable mask or a re-usable mask.
The disposable mask is suitable to wear for up to 2-3 hours, just be aware reusing a dirty mask or a disposable mask more than a few times increases your risk of irritated skin. If your disposable mask needs to be refreshed, throw it in the bin and pop a clean one on.
The reusable masks are a great option for someone who has to wear a mask all day every day, all you need to do it wash it with a little cleanser (skintip) and dry it out at the end of each day.
Actrol Powder
This is an antibacterial powder specifically formulated to reduce excess sebaceous oil flow whilst assisting in the clearing of acne. Actrol Powder absorbs oil without dehydrating the skin, it also offers a cleansing seal on the skin and encourages healing. This unique formulation is suitable for sensitive, oily and acne prone skins. You can use a clean dry fluffy brush to dust your face lightly with Actrol Powder to reduce moisture and create and antibacterial seal. Pop your mask on and away you go!
Acu Mist
A powerful skin mist that kills 98% of bacteria, formulated with a concentrated blend of aloe, alginic acid from seaweed and antioxidant orange peel. Designed to help acne sufferers restore the very important acid mantle (which acts as a barrier against bacteria, and other potential contaminants) as well as protect against trans epidermal water loss. This spray will keep the skin hydrated and protected throughout the day, you can regularly spray you skin and mask to reduce bacteria build up. Acu mist can be used on hands to kill bacteria without dehydrating instead of antibac gel.
Acu Masque
This has been a skin saviour for so many of my clients during lockdown. Acu Masque is a diverse and versatile masque that aims to fight acne-causing bacteria, purify the skin, soothe and reduce redness, and inflammation. It contains Bentonite clay, Sulfur, Kaolin and Eucalyptus. It also purifies ducts which are plugged by dead cells and sebum, and prevents pimple eruptions, while acting as an astringent on enlarged pores. Apply 1-2 nights a week on cleansed skin, leave for 10-20 minutes and rinse well with warm water.
Beta Gel Serum
Last but not least! My absolute favourite. beta-gel is an immune-boosting serum formulated for acne, burns, sunburn, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, premature aging, sluggish skins, super sensitive skins, and anyone who needs increased healing and skin regeneration. A unique serum packed with vitamin C and the most potent beta-glucan extracted from yeasts’ cell walls. Beta Gel serum can help reduce swelling, redness, and inflammation allowing healthier skin cells to fight back. It can be applied directly to any skin condition. Apply morning and night on clean skin before creams or SPF.
So there you have it a run down on the hatred MASKNE topic. Whether you’ve had maskne long term or short term. Remember to be kind to yourself, maskne affects a lot more people than you might think.
Feel free to purchase any of the DMK products on my website.