Frictional Acne from wearing masks
While wearing face masks in public may have become compulsory at least for the near future, you may have noticed that your skin may be suffering from unintended side effects. COVID-19 would probably be around with us for quite some time, which means wearing a face mask or face shield in public is something we should already have gotten used to. The constant friction caused by the direct contact with our skin along with the trapped exhaled air and perspiration exacerbated by our tropical climate can potentially cause skin irritation.
The heat combined with the humidity is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and in this case, acne causing bacteria. The constant rubbing of the mask on the skin can cause sensitive skin types to become even more irritated which can result in redness and exacerbation of skin conditions. Oily skin types may also experience more congestions due to the heat and resulting increased sebum production. Even the simple act of breathing is a complication. “When we breathe or talk into the masks, we increase moisture, which ends up changing our skin’s natural PH. However, there are ways to minimise irritation and combat acne caused by the wearing of masks so we can continue to wear our masks with confidence. Avoid wearing makeup, which can soil the mask and further clog your skin.
- Soothe the skin rather than aggressively exfoliate.
Swop your existing cleansers for gentle, nourishing, and hydrating cleansers that help to soothe the skin and reinforce skin barrier function. Choose masks that contain skin loving ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, Niacinamides, or botanicals such as Algae.
Our team loves the Evolve Organic Beauty Gentle Cleansing Melt – a light textured balm which smells divine. Perfect as a massage and treatment balm, this cleanser contains potent antioxidants that work to soothe the skin and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. The Osea Ocean Cleanser is rich in minerals and great for oily skin types. This gel cleanser contains algae and amino acids that calm and heal sensitised skin.
- Use hydrating masks and an anti-inflammatory barrier cream.
Using hydrating sheet masks regularly help beneficial ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin. Inna organic has a range of amazing sheet masks suitable for all skin types. We particularly recommend the Rose Geranium Skin Soothing Facial Mask which deeply hydrates while soothing the skin.
An oil will act as a protective barrier and also repair the skin barrier. Used on its own or blended together with a moisturiser to form a barrier cream, the Osea Essential Corrective Complex Oil is our must-to have blemish buster, also contains botanicals such as Tea Tree, White Thyme and Juniper to combat acne and blemishes. Mix this powerful anti-inflammatory concentrate with a moisturiser of your choice to create an anti-inflammatory barrier cream.
Other tips which i have tried and find it helpful.
- Wash your reusable mask frequently.
- Brush and floss your teeth AFTER each meal. i have started bringing a set of toothbrush and rinse with me where I go.
- I have just started spraying a clarifying toner on my mask, air it before wearing it.
If you have ultra-sensitive and reactive skin like mine, wash your mask daily and have a change in your bag.
