Mask-related acne, or “maskne,” has become a new pest to the faces of many Americans this year. Even though masks are effective helpers in slowing the spread of COVID-19, they are inconvenient to wear at times and can do a number on your facial skin.

Why do masks cause our faces to break out, and is there a way we can stop it from happening? Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Greenwood provides some helpful answers.

What Causes “Maskne”?

When your mask irritates your skin, mask-related acne is born. Masks create a humid environment, which allows for acne-causing bacteria to thrive due to the trapped amounts of saliva, dirt and oil on your face.

Even though this skin irritation happens to many, the American Academy of Dermatology still recommends that we all wear face masks to protect ourselves and others in public places.

Reasons to Still Wear a Mask

• Protects yourself and others from the coronavirus
• Helps the economy open back up by reducing the number of COVID-19 cases
• Protects those with underlying health conditions from becoming sick
• Is especially effective when social distancing is difficult

How Can I Treat My Irritated Skin?

One of the best ways to improve your skin health is by keeping your mask clean. If you usually wear a cloth mask, the AAD urges you to wash it after every wear by using hot water (unless otherwise recommended) and a gentle detergent. Harsh detergents can actually make maskne worse.

If you don’t wear a cloth mask and your skin is still irritated, change your mask out every few days and aim to wear a mask made of 100% cotton. Dermatologists suggest 100% cotton masks because they allow the skin to breathe a bit.

Other Ways to Protect Your Skin

• Wash your face in the morning before you leave the house and at night before bedtime.
• Try a few different mask materials. Go with the one that offers good protection and irritates your skin the least.
• Skip wearing makeup underneath the mask. Not wearing makeup allows your skin to breathe and heal.

Your skin health is important! If you have other questions about how to best deal with maskne or are in need of general medical care, don’t hesitate to visit us at AFC Urgent Care Greenwood.