Whoever thought mask wearing would become part of our daily lives. Due to this current pandemic, it has been causing havoc to our skin.
The medical term for “maskne” is acne mechanica, a skin condition brought on by prolonged wear of facial personal protective equipment. “Masks impose heat, friction and occlusion on the skin and when combined with a moist environment from breathing, talking or sweating, this is a recipe for breakouts. Pores easily get clogged and can become pimples or acne cysts. On top of that, the prolonged occlusion, heat and sweat can cause the skin to become dry, itchy and raw.”
Acne, isn’t the only skin condition suffered by mask wearers. Other common face mask skin problems include:
- Allergic contact dermatitis – Some manufactured masks may contain a chemical that causes an allergic reaction. Formaldehyde and bronopol can be found in polypropylene surgical masks.
- Rosacea – Classically worsened by heat and stress, mask wearing can increase flares.
- Seborrheic dermatitis – It causes scaly plaques, inflamed skin and stubborn dandruff.
- Folliculitis – When yeast or bacteria infects hair follicles.
Tips to Prevent and control Maskne
Wash your face before and after mask wearing to prevent dirt and bacteria from clogging your pores
Keep your masks clean. Wash your cloth masks after every use and/or have multiple fresh clean masks to change into throughout the day. Trapped bacteria in our masks from our nose and mouth can cause unwanted eruptions.
Use unscented laundry detergent when washing your mask to avoid irritation.
Apply or add a Face oil to cleansed skin, rich with fatty acids and natural anti-microbial to your skincare routine.
Certain plant based oils have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties to protect the sebaceous gland that is responsible for producing acne and pimples.
Marwe
I created Marwe face oil serum that has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties to protect the sebaceous gland that is responsible for producing acne and pimples. It is rich in essential fatty acids, great at restoring the protective barrier of the skin and keeps the skin moisturised for a long time. Marwe has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation of the sebaceous glands, leading to quicker healing after a breakout. The right Plant oils have a unique way of tricking the sebaceous glands to produce less oil and create more of a balance to oilier skin types. This light textured unique blend of Shea Butter , Maringa, Star Anise, Chamomile, many other plant based oils, makes Marwe powerful, quick absorbing, moisturizing and yet also soothing.