Face masks have become central to our lives over the past year, and for good reason: they protect us from germs, bacteria, and viruses. Their role in helping to prevent and slow the spread of COVID19 can not be stressed enough. But, while they do so much good for our health, and the health of our communities, they can cause us discomfort, especially skin discomfort in what’s commonly referred to as “maskne.”

Since mask-wearing isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, understanding maskne has become a top priority for many, including all of us here at Lala Skin Essentials. We know this skin concern can cause discomfort, so we’ll be sharing all of our tips and advice for coping with maskne, and most importantly, ways you can treat and prevent this skin concern from causing your skin further irritation.

But first, let’s better understand what’s happening and what is meant when we’re talking about maskne.

What is Maskne?

To put it simply maskne is referring to the breakouts that occur on the skin beneath and around your face mask from wearing a face mask frequently and for long periods. The term is a clever combination of the words, “mask” and “acne,” and we think that perfectly conveys the irritation caused by wearing a face mask. 

Dermatologist Amy Kassouf, MD says maskne is a skin concern that has existed for a long time but has become commonplace as we all are taking precautions during the COVID19 pandemic. Those who were working in health care sectors and using face masks before the pandemic began are likely familiar with this skin reaction, and now the rest of us are learning about it too.

How is Maskne Caused?

Maskne is caused by several different factors.  Breakouts can occur from the skin being covered, as this changes the airflow and moisture levels around our skin, and can even trap sweat and dirt (which we know can cause breakouts even without the presence of a face mask).

Something that may come as surprise is that maskne is also caused by the friction and irritation that can occur when having fabric close to the skin and moving against it — your skin reacts to these irritations by breaking out to protect your skin.

Not using the right kinds of products can also further irritate our skin worsening the look and feel of maskne. The New York Times discussed that acidic properties of some products (like retinols) can have a negative impact when covered by a mask for long periods. Being selective of the products you use under your mask is a big part of keeping your skin calm, clear, and comfortable.

How can Maskne be treated?

We’re all used to wearing face masks now, but what we’re not getting used to is the flare-up of acne that mask-wearing causes. The good news? There are natural ingredients that are great for the treatment of maskne!

The ingredients that stand out to us are Tea Tree, Rose Water, Witch Hazel, Black Soap, and Chamomile. Why do we love these ingredients for treating and preventing maskne? 

Tea Tree

This incredible, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient helps to prevent, treat, and heal acne and breakouts caused by wearing a face mask, and from life in general!

Find this skin healing and clarifying ingredient in our Tea Tree Facial Cleanser, Tea Tree Facial Toner, The Clean Canvas Set, Lemongrass Balancing Mist, Perfect Skin Serum, and our Acne Spot Treatment.

Witch Hazel

Witch Hazel in skincare products is a great natural skincare ingredient to help soothe inflammation and skin irritations (like the kind that can happen from wearing a face mask all day). It is particularly great for treating oily skin types and acne-prone skin types since witch hazel minimizes oil production.

Find this natural skin-soothing ingredient in our best-selling products like our Rose Water Face Mist, our Black Soap Cleanser, and our Tea Tree Facial Toner.

Black Soap

African Black Soap has traditionally been used to clear skin, treat acne, eczema, psoriasis, oily skin, and other skin ailments. These qualities make it a wonderful option for soothing, healing, and preventing maskne. Find this wonderful ingredient to keep your skin clear and blemish-free in our Black Soap Cleanser, for a gentle and pore-clearing daily cleanser. 

Rose Water

We will never stop talking about how much we love rose water in skincare! This incredible natural ingredient offers your skin so many benefits. This ingredient soothes skin irritations and redness, and it hydrates and softens the skin. Oh, and it has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that help to prevent and treat breakouts and skin irritation — meaning it is perfect to help you prevent maskne! 

Find this maskne preventing ingredient in our Rose Water Face Mist and Rose Revive Face Serum.

Chamomile

Skin clearing and skin-soothing, chamomile is often known for its relaxation benefits and uses in tea. But in the form of oil, this ingredient offers benefits to your skin. It helps to soothe irritated skin. You can find this skin-calming ingredient in our Chamomile Hydration Mist — it’s the perfect addition to keep your skin at its best, even when it’s covered by a mask all day.

Additional Tips to Treat & Prevent Maskne

Tips for taking care of your skin while protecting yourself from COVID 19 by wearing a face mask:

• Make sure you’re wearing a clean mask or that you’re always using a new disposable mask.
• Wash your face after wearing your mask.
• Apply a toner (like our lemongrass balancing mist or tea tree face toner) before and after wearing a face mask.
• Maintain a regular skincare routine to help limit irritations and breakouts.
• Spray our rosewater face mist onto mask before use for best results

Shop our Best Maskne Preventing and Fighting Products:

Have any more questions about maskne or treating your skin concerns in general? Leave a comment below or reach out to us on social media or through our email, we’d be more than happy to help