These days, wearing a face mask is a necessity to protect ourselves and other people from the virus. But wearing it for many hours a day with this humid, warm weather we have can actually cause our facial skin some itchy lines, a couple of pimples, or worse, acne.

The breakout suddenly ravaging your cheeks, nose, and mouth area might have been caused by this protective essential, and this skin problem is now popularly known as maskne.  The tiny red bumps that appear on your skin after wearing a face mask are called “acne mechanica”, or acne that was caused by the mask material rubbing against and irritating your skin. Besides the friction, your skin is more likely to get sweaty and oily while wearing a mask, making it an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive in.

Since not wearing a mask is not at all an option, you can instead take steps to prevent or treat mask acne with these skincare tips:

1.Wash your face with a gentle cleanser

Make sure to clean your face before putting on your face mask so your skin doesn’t end up “steeping” in dirt and oil. Choose a facial wash that gently cleanses without damaging your skin’s moisture barrier.

Photo: Cetaphil, source

Cleanse your face again after removing your mask when you get home, and reapply your skin care. If you’re following the recommendation to replace disposable masks as soon as it gets damp, you can use a wet wipe to clean your face before putting on a fresh mask.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a best-seller for a reason. Designed specifically to work for all skin types, this mild, soap-free formula won’t strip your skin of its natural protective oils or emollients. You can grab this skincare staple in almost all department and grocery stores near you.

2.Use a moisturizer

Applying moisturizer creates a protective barrier between your skin and the face mask to lessen friction. It also prevents your skin from drying out from repeated washing and cleaning. Worried that moisturizer will worsen your acne? Opt for a gel cream formula that nourishes skin without feeling thick or heavy.

Photo: Huxley, source

Remember to give your moisturizer and other skin care products you use enough time to absorb into your skin before putting on your mask. This is particularly important for those who wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as the cosmetics might interfere with the mask’s ability to form a seal around the skin.

Huxley is a famous Korean skincare brand, especially for its much-raved Secret of Sahara Cream moisturizer. It applies lightly and won’t smother your face. There are several anti-oxidants at play to boost skin radiance and moisturizing properties to relieve a dry, irritated face. You can get your hands on this baby through BeautyMNL.

3.Treat your spots with care

Photo: Origins Spot Remover, source

Yes, it’s annoying to have bumps on your face but picking at them will make your condition worse. Resist the urge to pop or use abrasive face scrubs that can cause further irritation. A salicylic acid-based pimple treatment effectively soothes the inflammation and flattens the zit pronto.

Origins Super Spot Remover has blemish-fighting power with its Saw Palmetto & 1.5% Salicylic Acid. It can help kiss away spots and prevent new outbursts from forming. Just apply a thin layer 1-3 times daily. For a list of the stores re-opening to cater to your Origins skincare needs, click here.

4. Skip the makeup

Photo: Laura Mercier, source

Well, not all of it! Do your eyebrows and play up your eyes, but give your face foundations a rest for now. Skipping heavy makeup helps to minimize your risk of getting acne, plus it helps to keep your mask clean. If your face feels naked and you want to even your skin tone, opt for a tinted moisturizer instead or use a concealer only on the exposed areas of your face.

The Tinted Moisturizer from Laura Mercier is like a face powder that gives your face a smooth , flawless makeup finish,  but it is actually a skincare product, offering your skin some moisturizing ingredients. You can avail this through Laura Mercier beauty counters or BeautyMNL.
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5.Protect vulnerable areas with patches

Photo: CosRX, source

If your mask constantly rubs at a particular spot or feels irritating on the bumps, consider applying a hydrocolloid bandage over the area for a more comfortable feeling when wearing a mask. You can also ask the pharmacy for skin-safe tape or wound dressing to cover larger areas.

This pimple patch from CosRX is gentle and effective made from hydrocolloid bandage. This patch works to reduce inflammation, absorb impurities from pores and protect against bacteria. Also, you do not have to worry acne scarring again with this patch.⠀You can also avail of these through BeautyMNL.

6. Practice proper face mask hygiene

Disposable face masks are intended for one time use, while cloth face masks should be washed after every use. This is necessary for protecting you from the virus, and your skin will also thank you for it. You don’t want yesterday’s sweat and oils to get back and touch on your clean face.

Photo: Ocean Essentials/Zoo Label

Wash your mask with detergent, but skip the fabric conditioner as the added chemicals can irritate your skin.

7. If all else fails, replace your mask

Photo: Ocean Essentials/Zoo Label

The inner lining of your cloth face mask should ideally be made of a smooth, breathable fabric. If the texture is a bit rough or if there are stitches that are rubbing against your skin, consider getting a new face mask to prevent further irritation.