My Skin is Breaking Out! 4 Tips on How to Prevent Maskne

Like most people, every now and then I would experience the occasional breakout. However, lately it seems as if the occasional breakout has become more of a frequent unwelcome visitor on my skin. Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, as nurses we would typically wear masks for 15 minutes or so at a time while performing patient care in a droplet precaution isolation room. It would never be for an entire shift! While masks play a critical role in preventing the spread of Covid-19, they can also clog pores, cause “maskne” flare-ups, and be damaging to sensitive skin. To help prevent “maskne” problems, our Graceful Med registered nurses recommend these 4 tips:

1. Proper hand hygiene

With the use of masks, we are touching our faces more than ever before. Prior to touching your face, be sure to perform proper hand hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water and/or utilizing an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

2. Wash your face with a hypoallergenic cleanser and be sure to moisturize your face daily.

A consistent daily skin care routine can be the key to keeping maskne at bay. Be sure to moisturize your face after washing because it will act as a barrier to mask friction.

3. Wear a Clean Mask

One time use masks are meant to be one time use. Dirty masks can hold oil and dirt, which contribute to maskne problems. If there is a concern for protecting the critical supply of PPE, then wear a cloth-based mask. If you choose to wear a cloth-based mask, launder the mask regularly.

4. Take A Break

When you’re outdoors and can appropriately socially distance, take the mask off for 15minutes to give your skin a chance to breathe (and your lungs too!)

Because of the coronvirus pandemic, masks might be around for “a long time and not a good time”. Following these tips can help reduce mask-related skin issues and guarantee healthy skin beyond the pandemic.