Fighting Mask-Caused Breakouts: Avoiding And Treating ‘Maskne’

Is your face mask causing you some nasty acne?

Chances are you are not alone as many people are encountering the same problem.

Breakouts that occur after wearing a mask have become so common that mask acne’s been dubbed “maskne” online.

The technical term for maskne is “acne mechanica,” and is the result of the mechanical friction of fabric against the skin. It’s not new — sports figures who wear helmets and chin guards are quite familiar with such breakouts.

If you haven’t already experienced maskne, you very likely could as you spend more time outdoors this summer, due to the heat, humidity, sunscreen and facial products.
And treatment is tricky, experts say.

You can’t use powerful products like alpha hydroxy acids, chemical peels, or Retin A to blast the acne because they will further damage the fragile skin barrier, making it more sensitive to the mask’s irritating effects.

The best thing to do is to prevent maskne from occurring in the first place. Since we can’t — or shouldn’t — stop wearing masks around others for the foreseeable future, here are some key prevention tips.

Wash that mask
Use gentle skincare products
Put that new skincare regimen on hold; stick with what works for you

Of course, you can’t eliminate the wearing of mask but those are simple yet effective ways you can prevent or treat those annoying breakouts.

If such tips are not enough, perhaps you should see a dermatologist. See ours! Call our Patient Care Lines: (+632) 7-368 5238 l (+63) 917 862 7454 l (+63) 921 217 0517 for inquiries and appointments.