6 Tips for Preventing “Maskne”

Masks are important, but they don’t have to wreak havoc on your skin!

We’ve all experienced a lot of changes over the last several months. One big one most of us can attest to is the requirement of wearing masks in most public places. Masks are certainly important for helping prevent the spread of germs and should be worn where appropriate to help keep yourself and others safe. However, there is a drawback to face coverings – they’re not so kind to your skin.

Now that masks have become part of your daily routine, have you been noticing some breakouts, redness, or irritation around your mouth and nose?  “Maskne” is the new phrase coined to describe a myriad of skin issues caused by regular mask use. But there are steps you can take to ward off the dreaded negative effects that masks can sometimes produce. Please enjoy these helpful tips to keep your skin in tip-top shape while doing your part to be safe:

1. Wash or change your mask daily. When combined with the warmth and moisture of your breath, masks tend to become a breeding ground for bacteria. By simply washing your mask each day, or replacing it with each use, you’ll notice a huge difference. The key to washing is to use a gentle, hypoallergenic, antibacterial detergent. Look for “free and clear” or “free and gentle” on the label when buying detergent.
2. Avoid wearing makeup under your mask, especially if you’re going to be wearing one for long periods of time. Makeup contributes to the build-up in your pores and leads to more breakouts when paired with the friction of the mask. Opt for tinted sunscreen or mineral powder instead.
3. When it’s safe and appropriate, give yourself breaks from wearing your mask periodically throughout the day. That will allow more oxygen to your skin cells and reduce the amount of time your mask is rubbing against your skin.
4. Use a light moisturizer regularly. A good moisturizer that restores the skin’s hydration while still allowing it to “breathe” is very important because masks rub against the skin and cause irritation. A heavy moisturizer can further clog pores, but one that is balanced is great for preventing irritation.
5. Use an exfoliating cleanser every day. By using one formulated for your skin type, you can wash away dead skin cells, debris, oils, and makeup residue to help prevent acne from flaring up
6. Now more than ever, medical-grade facials can make a wonderful part of your monthly skincare routine. Many of these treatments use patented technology to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, extract dead skin and debris, hydrate, and protect for beautiful, glowing skin. Having one of these treatments every two to four weeks can help keep your skin in great condition.

Masks are just a part of life for now, but maskne doesn’t have to be if you follow these steps! Give us a call (859) 344-3250 or visit our website at www.zerogravitynky.com and find out how we can help your skin be radiant with or without a mask. Above all else, stay safe and healthy!