Ditch the makeup – Wearing skin makeup under a mask causes clogged pores and breakouts, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

This may take trial and error to find the right formulation for your skin type. Take care to avoid fragrances amongst other common contact allergens. Dao says to look for moisturizers that contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or dimethicone, which will provide extra protection. Apply onto a cleansed face before and after wearing a mask.

Apply a moisturizer – Not only will this keep your skin hydrated, it will also act as a barrier between your face and your mask, reducing friction.

“Your face should always be clean before you put on your mask.” “This prevents dirt and oil from being trapped on the skin surface, which cause breakouts,” Dao says.

Wash your face first – Use a gentle cleanser that is free of fragrance and oil and rinse with lukewarm water.

Folliculitis– When yeast or bacteria infect hair follicles.ĭao offers six skin care tips to protect your face from mask irritation.

Seborrheic dermatitis – It causes scaly plaques, inflamed skin and stubborn dandruff.Rosacea – Classically worsened by heat and stress, mask wearing can increase flares.Formaldehyde and bronopol can be found in polypropylene surgical masks. Allergic contact dermatitis – Some manufactured masks may contain a chemical that causes an allergic reaction.Other common face mask skin problems include: On top of that, the prolonged occlusion, heat and sweat can cause the skin to become dry, itchy and raw.”Īcne, isn’t the only skin condition reported by mask wearers, Dao says. “Pores get clogged and can become pimples or acne cysts.

“Masks impose heat, friction and occlusion on the skin and when combined with a moist environment from breathing, talking or sweating, this is a recipe for breakouts,” Dao says. The medical term for “maskne” is acne mechanica, a skin condition brought on by prolonged wear of facial personal protective equipment.

Harry Dao, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist for Loma Linda University Health explains what maskne is and how to prevent it.ĭao says maskne isn’t a new phenomenon, as medical professionals who have worn masks can attest to this pesky skin problem, but the condition has become more widespread amongst the general population. As more states and businesses across the country require people to wear face coverings in public in order to fight the spread of COVID-19, individuals with sensitive skin are asking how you fight what’s under the mask - skin irritation and acne.

Under the mask