MASKNE…The dreaded phrase we never knew would be in our 2020/2021 vocabulary!
Why are we breaking out from wearing masks?
“Maskne,” or mechanical acne, is multifactorial and a major problem with the current economic situation. The major contributors include warm to hot temperatures of the skin, damp skin from saliva and moisture retention under the mask, and the pressure of the mask on the skin. The warmth under the skin can lead to clogging of pores and acne. Higher temperatures are a breeding ground for bacteria. With long periods of time, compression of the skin can actually lead to breakdown, specifically on the bridge of the nose and behind the ears. Masks absorb the natural oils from the skin and can cause irritation. If you use harsh detergents when washing them, these can also cause redness, irritation and scaliness, especially if you already have sensitive skin.
What should someone look for in a mask to help lessen breakouts?
Thinner, yet effective, materials are best, such as silk or 100% cotton. Minimal to no makeup will significantly reduce breakouts. Wash your mask daily with dye-free, fragrance-free detergents. Copper-infused materials have been shown to have antibacterial properties, ceasing the growth of Cutibacterium acnes. The best way to prevent acne is by using disposable face masks and not re-using them.
Any upkeep skin advice in terms of masks now being part of our daily lives?
It is important to have a gentle yet effective skincare routine. Two of my all time favorites for maskne are part of the the Soyier Skin Collection.
Lavage d’Acne is a clarifying acne wash with concentrated, yet gentle, salicylic acid which gently exfoliates and decreases sebaceous gland size and activity. This leads to a decrease in oil and sebum production, thereby significantly reducing the frequency and severity of acne breakouts. Minimized pore size after use is also apparent, as the salicylic acids and botanicals flood and penetrate and shrink the pores. This helps minimize debris, irritation, and inflammation of the pores that could lead to acne. The population of acne-causing bacteria, Cutibactierum acnes, is devastated, and skin appears clearer, softer, and blemishes are minimized.
Combine this beautiful wash with a spot treatment, Serum Performance Clair, an herbal-infused acne-fighting serum contains granulated Benzoyl Peroxide and the exfoliative Glycolic Acid to work in tandem to create a superior acne-fighting serum to quickly clear the pores of bacteria and cellular debris within 24 hours. This product also significantly reduces the sebaceous gland activity, and therefore sebum/oil production, leading to more clear and blemish-free complexion.
Both of these products are MADE IN THE USA, Cruelty-free, Dermatology tested, Paraben-Free, Naturally-Derived, Sulfate-free
It is important to follow cleansing with a hydrating toner, a potent serum, and a non-comedogenic, or non pore-clogging, moisturizer.
Toner Hydratant is a supremely formulated facial toner that is devoid of alcohol and offers cleansing and hydrating properties (check out that first ingredient- aloe!). DMAE (2-dimethylaminoethanol) works effectively to combat the signs of aging and soften fine lines and wrinkles, while also enhancing tone and texture. Agave, Sand Verbena, and Joshua Tree Root break down dead skin cells and fight skin congestion while defending against free radicals. This is toner is the perfect product after cleansing to prime the skin for ultimate additional hydration through serum layering if desired.
While the skin is still damp, apply the powerhouse serum, Melange Antioxydant, a concentrated Vitamin C, E and Ferulic Acid formula. This serum contains potent free-radical scavengers for preserving a vibrant and fresh complexion, including L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 15%, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) 1%, and Ferulic Acid 0.5. This will help protect your delicate, mask-laden skin from additional injury and also help preserve the complexion.
Last but not least, a light yet effective moisturizer is in the recipe!
Vitamin C Luxcreme is an illuminating Vitamin C-infused creme that brightens and restores the youthful glow which deeply hydrating the skin. Plant oils, Tamanu, and Macadamia nut, leave your skin silky and with an aroma of Cocoa, Sandalwood, Cedar Wood, Musk, Floral and Sweet Fruits. MethylSulfonylMethane (MSM) is a pure, organic sulfur that facilitates supremely effective penetration, collagen stimulation, and overall renewal of skin health at a cellular level.
You can find the entire Soyier Skin Collection at www.soyier.com Happy #spoton skin!
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