The ‘Maskne’ Struggle is Real! Here's How To Avoid It

If you live on planet Earth, you probably know there’s been a pandemic that requires us to wear masks every time we step out. The mask covers the lower half of our face, and when this area develops acne, skin experts have lovingly termed this phenomenon as ‘maskne’. While we can’t avoid wearing masks, we CAN prevent maskne - but first, we need to understand what causes it! 

What causes Maskne? 

Maskne can be caused due to many issues. Though the term maskne is a derivative of mask and acne, it also encompasses other skin conditions caused by wearing a mask. These include: 

Acne

When pores become clogged with dirt, grime, makeup, oil and dead skin cells, acne can develop, causing painful blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and pustules. 

Rosacea

This condition includes redness, swelling and acne-like breakouts. 

Folliculitis 

This is an infection of the hair follicles, causing painful, bumpy skin that can turn itchy. 

How can you avoid maskne?

How can you treat it? 

There are a few maskne treatments that can help. Try these handy tips: 

• Make sure to never touch your face with dirty hands to prevent spreading bacteria
• Try to let your skin breathe as much as possible – but wear your mask whenever you step out! 
• Try to reduce stress as much as possible. Adopt healthy stress management techniques
• Take a break from makeup to let your skin heal 
• Wash your face after wearing a mask for long durations 
• Establish a concrete skincare routine, and follow it daily for best results 

Getting rid of maskne can be a challenge, especially since we have to wear masks every time we step out. If maskne really bothers you, you can opt for treatments like chemical peels and laser treatments with your dermatologist, which can help heal acne faster. Whatever you do, fight the urge to pop the as this can cause more harm than good. If you suspect that your maskne isn’t getting better even after trying multiple treatments, it may be time to see a dermatologist.   

Meanwhile, here’s an easy skincare routine you can follow for maskne prevention and treatment: 

1. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser that doesn’t irritate your skin. We recommend the Mon Cherry Brightening Foam Cleanser. 
2. Apply a spot treatment like Mama Cica Zit Away Treatment Patches on active acne. It is loaded with star ingredients like glycolic acid, witch hazel and tea tree oil. 
3. Follow it with a serum that is loading with actives that help heal damaged skin and reduce breakouts. Try the Chialeader Zit Fix Serum, as it contains salicylic acid and skin-soothing ingredients like chia seed and cactus water. 
4. Seal the deal with a soothing, oil control moisturizer like the Chialeader Oil Control Moisturizer. The in-built applicator gently massages the skin and improves absorption, leaving your skin hydrated and non-greasy! 
5. Finish with a high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen that is non-greasy and non-comedogenic. 

Good luck!