Masks, it looks like they are going to be here for a while. Our model skin, however is not doing so well. We already have to cover up half our faces after getting the perfect makeup look down, but now we are suffering breakouts on the areas the masks cover.
Masks create sweat and collect moisture from breathing, which makes underneath your mask…a welcome invitation for acne. Bacteria festers underneath masks from the moisture, natural oils from skin, and of course makeup and dirt. As you talk or even walk around, the masks begin to move causing friction on that area of your face. So, that bacteria mixture I mentioned earlier is practically being rubbed into your pores. Great, right?
Before you start to panic, there are options that can prevent or treat mask-ne before it gets too out of hand.
- Do Not Reuse the Same Mask
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Even though most of us do not have unlimited access to face masks, it is so important to remember never to reuse the same mask. For sanitation purposes, but also because all of the bacteria that has festered on your skin is also in the mask. Even if you hang it up and don’t use it until the following day, the bacteria is still there. Now you will not only be adding new bacteria to your skin from everyday wear, but now the old bacteria that has been soaking into the mask will seep into that mixture.
- Wash Your Face Every Time You Come Home
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I know, I know. How are you ever going to have time between schoolwork, your job, and running errands. But believe me, this will help transform your skin so much. Every time you take a mask off, wash that area and then wash it again. Double cleansing the part of your skin the mask rubs on will help clean your pores and anything left over that may cause break outs. Your skincare routine may have to be altered a little bit, but the results will be worth it!
- Charcoal, Charcoal, Charcoal
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If you haven’t noticed already, many of the bumps left on your skin from masks tend to be black heads. Charcoal face masks will be a lifesaver if black heads are becoming a problem for you. Charcoal is a natural substance that deep cleanses skin and unclogs pores. Black heads are caused from clogged pores, so charcoal will completely cleanse the skin a normal face wash cannot maintain. Doing a face mask at least twice a week could transform your skin and leave it glowing.
All of these updates to cleansing skin may leave it drier than normal, especially with the cold weather approaching. Always remember to moisturize following cleansing. Masks are definitely going to stick around, so don’t let maskne be the reason you don’t wear a mask. Mask up!