“Maskne” Is the New Acne

By U.S. Dermatology Partners

. https://www.usdermatologypartners.com/

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“Maskne” Is the New Acne

You have likely heard of acne, a common skin condition that impacts millions of adolescents and adults. But, what about “maskne” – acne related to wearing face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic? If you’re dealing with breakouts caused by frequent mask wear, your dermatologist can help you prevent and treat this condition.

Most commonly, acne is caused when pores are clogged with sebum (oil), skin cells, sweat, dirt, and other foreign matter. These clogs can trap naturally occurring bacteria beneath the skin’s surface, causing infection, inflammation, and the development of “pimples.”

What Is Maskne, and Is It Different?

The type of acne most people think about is caused by a combination of clogged pores, hormones, and C. acnes bacteria, but this is only one form of acne. Another common form is “acne mechanica.” This type of acne is caused by friction against the skin that leads to skin irritation. Over time, continued friction leads to inflammation that can block pores and lead to breakouts. 

Maskne is a form of acne mechanica that causes breakouts in the areas covered by a face mask – the jaw, cheeks, nose, chin, and around the mouth. Moisture and sweat trapped on the skin when wearing masks can contribute to these breakouts.

Can I Prevent Maskne?

In addition to working with your dermatologist to develop a care plan, you should keep the following tips in mind:

• Clean your reusable masks – You need to wash your mask frequently. If you’re wearing a mask for a few minutes, you can probably wear it again later, but if you wear the face mask for an hour or longer, wash it and switch to a different mask. Use hypoallergenic clothes detergent to wash your face mask as residue from these products can also irritate the skin.
• Exchange disposable masks often – You should use a new disposable face mask each day, or any time your mask is damaged or appears visibly dirty or damp.
• Simplify skincare – The more products applied to the skin below a mask, the more likely people are to experience irritation and breakouts. Use a gentle cleanser to wash the face in the morning and evening, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer regularly, and use sunscreen as directed. 
• Skip the makeup – We all want to look our best, but foregoing your makeup routine can significantly reduce the risk for clogged pores and skin irritation under your mask. If you do wear makeup, minimize your routine and use a gentle cleanser or micellar water to remove the makeup. 
• Pay extra attention – While you’re wearing a mask, make a change right away when you notice irritation, excess moisture, pain, or other concerns. We know healthcare workers can’t always excuse themselves to apply a little petroleum jelly around their mask lines, but as soon as reasonable, excuse yourself to make an adjustment if you notice issues. Don’t just live with irritation or discomfort all day.