Due to long term wearing masks, some of us suffer from "maskne" aka mask acne.

It is an umbrella term which includes several skin conditions ie acne, contact dermatitis, rosacea etc.

Maskne happens when your pores are clogged. Wearing a mask makes it difficult for your skin to "breathe" hence clogged pores. Furthermore, as your skin is constantly rubbing against the mask material, it causes friction and chaffing which will easily irritate your skin.

However, wear mask = save lives. So, here are some tips to prevent maskne:

1. WASH YOUR FACE REGULARLY

Regularly wash your face at least 2 times a day. Do your normal washes after you wake up in the morning, before you sleep AND after you sweat. Masks trap humidity and you're more likely to sweat as a result of this, prolong covering up will cause acne to form. While washing your face, remember to firstly use lukewarm water to open up your pores. Wash away the cleanser with cold water. Pat your face dry with a paper towel, if possible as it causes less friction this way.

2. GENTLE CLEANSER

Use a gentle cleanser first thing you wake up in the morning as you don't want to treat your skin harshly. Throughout the day, use foam cleanser. As for your nighttime cleanse, consider a double wash to ensure that you've truly got the debris off your face. Sensitive skins should avoid scented cleansers or cleanser which consist of alcohol. If you have acne skin, you may want to consider using medicated cleanser which consist of benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. 

3. MOISTURISER

Even though you're wearing mask, moisturiser is still a MUST! Remember to apply a thin layer of moisturiser after you cleanse your face so that it is hydrated. Over-moisturising may also cause your pores to clog so less is more! Also, use a noncomedogenic moisturiser to avoid clog pores.

4. MAKEUP

If possible, avoid applying makeup to allow your skin to take a break. If you must, then apply a thin layer of makeup. As foundations and concealer could easily cause bacteria buildup.

5. WASH YOUR FABRIC MASK

Do not reuse your fabric mask without washing it first. Also, wash it with unscented hypoallergenic laundry detergent to avoid irritating your skin.

6. DO NOT REUSE YOUR DISPOSABLE FACE MASK

DO NOT DO NOT (I repeat DO NOT) reuse your disposable face mask. This is a big NO NO! You do not want to know what's been accumulated on your mask while you wear it so toss it away after you've used it.

7. TOPICAL ANTIBIOTIC CREAM

This is actually recommended by dermatologist. Before wearing your mask, apply a thin layer of antibiotic cream/gel on your skin. It's not uncommon for bacteria to buildup on your skin due to prolong wearing mask. 

8. CHOOSE THE RIGHT MASK

Last but not least, you need to choose the right mask for your skin. Be wary of the mask material. Avoid masks which are made of synthetic fibres ie nylon. Choose masks which are made of cotton - let your skin "breathe".

It seems that we'll still be donning our face masks for some time. Hence, to avoid skin issues, please practice good hygiene. Hope you find these tips beneficial!