The COVID-19 pandemic has rendered the behavior of most of us unrecognizable. Handshakes have turned into elbow bumps. School and work are conducted remotely. Socializing happens virtually. And now even our faces are becoming nearly unrecognizable as we don a mask in order to go out. As more people are wearing masks and face coverings to protect themselves and others, some are discovering skin issues as a result.

It doesn't matter if you're someone who regularly get breakouts or if you have nearly perfect skin, mascne, or mask acne, is an unfortunate side effect of the daily mask-wearing we're all doing to slow the transmission of Covid-19. 


What's Causing Mascne?

Just like regular acne, there are multiple things that could cause mask acne: not washing your mask often enough, washing it with harsh detergent, your mask itself and its materials, or how frequently you have to wear it.

Masks help keep saliva and any other droplets—emitted from breathing, talking, coughing, or sneezing—from getting into the air and potentially transmitting Covid-19 (or other illnesses). That's what we want them to do, but this means that they trap moisture and bacteria inside, touching your skin.


To help prevent skin problems from developing under your mask, here are a few tips: 

1. Cleanse and moisturize your face daily. 

Gentle skin care can prevent skin problems. When washing your face, use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. The right cleanser needs to remove impurities, pollution particles, excess oil and dead skin cells without stripping the skin - but different skin needs different cleansers to achieve this! Just like how Cetaphil PRO Acne Oil Control Foam Wash. 


2. Skip the makeup when wearing a mask. 
Beneath a mask, makeup is more likely to clog your pores and lead to breakouts. If makeup is necessary, use only products labeled “non-comedogenic” or “won't clog pores.” Cetaphil PRO Acne Prone Oil-free Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 25 that is formulated with a unique Zinc technology will help reduce shine by 98%, irritation and blemishes. 

Best of all, it is non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic ensuring that it will not cause you more breakout and is also suitable for sensitive skin.
You can now purchase them either at Caring or Watson e-store.

3. Wear the right mask. 
To reduce skin problems, look for masks that offer the following:

  • A snug, but comfortable fit
  • At least two layers of fabric
  • Soft, natural, and breathable fabric, such as cotton, on the inside layer that rests against your skin 
Wearing a mask that offers a snug, but comfortable fit helps to protect you and others from the coronavirus. You want a snug fit across your nose, on the sides, and under your chin. A snug, comfortable fit also reduces skin problems. If the mask feels too tight or slides around on your face, it can irritate your skin. You’re also more likely to adjust a poorly fitting mask. When you touch your mask, you can transfer germs to your mask and your face. The fabric is also important. Avoid synthetic fabrics, such as nylon, polyester, and rayon on the the layer that rests against your skin. These are more likely to irritate your skin and cause breakouts.

4. Wash your cloth masks. 
Many health care organizations now recommend that you wash a cloth mask after each use. Washing it also removes oils and skin cells that collect inside the mask, which could lead to a skin problem. However, avoid using harsh detergents when washing. 

With the current covid figures, I believe the maskne issue gonna stay with us for a while now and hopefully the above tips will help you out in saving your skin.