With the constant and prolonged use of the protective mask, other concerns and conditions in the skin have arisen, known as “Maskne”, words that come from the English mask (mask) and one (acne).
Effects of Mask On The Skin, When Wearing For A Long Time
What causes it?
Maskne, Or Mechanical Acne As Professionals Call It
are pimples located in areas where the mask touches the face. Maskne occurs when sweat, oil (or natural skin sebum), and bacteria get trapped on your skin while wearing a mask, creating the perfect breeding ground for breakouts.
Generally, “Maskne” is a generic term for various skin conditions that can be caused by prolonged use of face covering. These conditions can include:
Acne
Acne occurs when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and dirt. It can cause pimples, pimples, or blackheads.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis occurs when you are allergic or sensitive to the material in your mask. which can lead to a red rash, along with blisters and irritation.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis, or an infection of the hair follicles, causes bumps that look like an acne breakout. You may also experience itching or pain.
How To Treat The Mask?
It is essential to continue wearing a protective mask. Keeping your mouth and nose covered is the best way to protect you and the people around you from COVID-19.
To prevent this type of acne breakouts and irritation on the face, it is important to continue a skincare routine by following the tips below:
- Wash your face with soap substitutes. Use a mild facial cleanser that can remove excess oil, sweat, and bacteria. Avoid using cleaners that contain alcohol or perfume as these can further irritate the skin. Soaps called syndet are recommended since they have a pH similar to that of the skin that respects the lipid layer and thus avoids attacking it.
- You must wash your face day and night. It is especially important to wash it at night to remove environmental dirt
- Use a non-comedogenic (non-clogging pores), fragrance-free moisturizer. If your skin is oily, use a moisturizer that regulates sebum.
- Avoid harsh scrubs. Scrubs can aggravate the skin and worsen irritation.
- If you have to apply makeup, the lighter the better. Avoid using bases that are very heavy and very oily.
- DO NOT use the same mask, throw it away. If it is a protective mask that can be washed, use a mild, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergent as the fragrance or perfume chemistry in detergents can worsen irritation.
- The American Dermatological Association. recommends taking a 15-minute mask break after every 4 hours. This helps save your skin.
NOTE:
- Remove the mask only, if it is safe to do so and after that, wash your hands. Safe places to remove the mask include:
- Outdoors if you can make the distance of at least six feet from people around you.
- Inside your car when you are alone, or at home.
Conclusion:
So these are the Effects of masks on the Skin, When wearing for a long time, If the condition is more severe, or if it still persists after trying these recommendations, be sure to follow up with your licensed skincare specialist, dermatologist, or healthcare provider.
Thanks for Reading.
