At this point, you’ve probably heard of the “maskne” phenomenon, a form of acne found on the lower part of the face, caused by wearing a mask. Wearing a mask over and over again creates a moist environment in the nose, mouth, chin and jaw area, which contributes to the spread of bacteria. The result is more blackheads and pimples, as well as irritated skin due to friction.
Of course, health care workers or essential business workers are the most affected by maskne, but a large majority of the population, even those who wear the mask only occasionally, notice changes in the appearance of their skin.
TO PREVENT MASKNE
› Always wear a clean mask (ideally one that has been cleaned with a non-irritating, skin-friendly detergent).
› When you are alone, for example, in your car, avoid wearing the mask unnecessarily.
› Avoid touching your face at all times.
› Replace your usual foundation with a non-comedogenic product that won’t block the pores of your skin (such as a tinted mineral sunscreen that will even out your complexion).
› Choose masks made of natural fibers, which breathe better than synthetic fibers. The ideal mask would be made of a cotton outside (thick enough to protect against the virus) but with an inner lining of silk, which is antibacterial and softer for the face.
Cleanser:
The mask makes your skin a warm, moist environment, which protects itself as best as it can by creating an excess sebum. Thus, the face mainly needs an even deeper cleansing.
Clarifying cleanser – Foam from Functionalab
Morning and evening, cleanse your skin with this Functionalab cleanser. In addition to normalizing the production of sebum, this product is known for its astringent and antibacterial actions, fighting against dilated pores and fighting clogged pores.
Exfoliate:
To decongest the skin and regenerate its cells, be sure to exfoliate your face at least 2 to 3 times a week.
SkinCeuticals Micro-exfoliating scrub
Made with natural microbeads and a gentle cleanser, this exfoliator will leave your skin smoother and softer without drying it out.
Use glycolic acids:
Glycolic acids (a derivative of fruit sugar), have the main function of accelerating skin cell renewal. These acids penetrate deep into the epidermis and therefore stimulate cell activity from the inside. It is also a key ingredient for unclogging pores, ridding the skin surface of dead cells, excess sebum and other impurities. Sebum production is regulated and pimples stop multiplying.
Glycolic Adic 5% Night Cream from Functionalab
Specifically formulated to introduce you to glycolic acids, the Glycolic Acid 5% Night Cream by Functionalab is enriched with ingredients with the alleviating capacity. In addition to improving cellular renewal, this cream reduces the appearance of wrinkles and improves overall radiance. Replace your usual night cream with this one, three times a week to start. Then, gradually, as your skin becomes accustomed to acids, you can increase its frequency.
Glycolic Acid Lotion 10%
Functionalab 10% Glycolic Acid Lotion is a unique combination of 8% glycolic acid and 2% salicylic acid, creating a synergistic action that effectively exfoliates and moisturizes the skin. Salicylic acid combined with a soothing complex, helps to reduce redness and irritation caused by wearing the mask. In addition, salicylic acid has the ability to penetrate the pores of the skin, where acne bacteria thrive, and helps neutralize it. An excellent treatment for acne-prone skin, the 10% Lotion revitalizes skin damaged by excess sun exposure, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, refines skin texture and improves skin radiance. At a frequency of 3 times a week, the Glycolic Acid Lotion 10% can be used alone 1 to 2 times a day, once your skin is accustomed to its ingredients. Its light texture allows you to combine it with your regular day or night cream afterwards.
Discover what Dr. John Arlette, Dermatologist at Dermapure Calgary, has to say about maskne in this short video:
Knowing your skin’s needs and adapting your routine is essential to maintain a healthy complexion, despite the current situation.
Our experts are there to help you and answer your questions. Visit our website or call us at 1-877-252-0293 to book an appointment for a free consultation with our team of professionals.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
