Skincare & Wearing a Mask
The global pandemic has brought a new norm of every day people using facial masks (for work to shopping trips). For a long time Healthcare workers have endured the effects of continued mask wearing and the toll it can take on their skin. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology reports among healthcare workers eczema, acne and skin damage, which consisted of excess dryness and irritation, was linked to 97% of cases caused by enhanced infection-prevention measures. So naturally, when we start to incorporate masks into our everyday, we start to see these same effects as our frontline workers.
In the months since Covid began, elevated concerns with the trending term “mascne”, or Mask Acne, have been on the minds of many. Breathing in and out into a mask or face covering creates an environment for your skin that is not ideal. Covering up means trapping humidity caused by the combination of breath and environmental factors (such as heat during the summer months), leading to breakouts or dermatitis (a red itchy rash). Further, exercising with masks, care curate excess oil, dirt, and sweat can lead to breakouts around the chin, jaw, cheeks, or mouth area. Although face coverings are taking much of the blame, they are not the only culprit. The increase in stress, inflammation and diet changes have all been top contributing factors as well.
Over the past month, we have noticed an increase in nasal, mouth and chin area issues among clients in our clinic. Clients of all ages who have never experienced acne or increased dryness are having these issues. Even though we have some great treatments to help relieve and rescue the skin, there are some important steps to further support our skin, and make the future of face masks and coverings easier on our skin. Here are a few things to consider and help aid with mask wearing. If you are continuing to have issues, both Karen and I are available for free consultations in the clinic. We are always happy to help and make recommendations based on your personal skin type!
What is you mask made of?
You will likely see an array of masks, from disposable surgical, to home made, to high fashion varieties. At the clinic we use the generic surgical disposables, but I have noticed many changes to my own skin since incorporating them into my everyday attire. This week, I ordered a cotton mask, and I have noticed a huge difference. Fabric is everything, especially when it comes to sensitive skin. Cotton, bamboo or silk are the best according to dermatologists. Avoid polyester or spandex and fabric dyed materials, if you have extra sensitivities.
Optimal Skincare Routine = Optimal skin
I can not stress enough that a good skincare regime is important! Supporting your skin regularly will not only keep your skin health optimal, but it will help aid when sensitivities come into play. Cleansing your skin with a gentle none drying cleanser morning and night will remove natural oil, sunscreen and other buildup that negative mask environments love to feed off of. Using a alcohol free toner with a hydrating moisturizer preps the skin for the day and rest at night. Look for anti-inflammatory ingredients in your products such as Green Tea, Turmeric, Calendula Extract and Honey. Avoid irritants commonly found such as fragrance, mineral oil, and paragons to name a few. And my favourite tip is to avoid washing your face with hot water! Use warm to cool water to rinse, even in the shower. Hot water stresses and dries the skin even more.
Go makeup free.
Wearing a mask and makeup does not compromise your mask’s effectiveness, however the combination of foundation, sweating, hot breath and friction can irritate your skin, especially in these summer months. If you find yourself wearing a mask all day, I suggest going makeup (foundation and powder) free in the areas covered by your mask. If you do feel like you need a little coverage I suggest starting with a prep primer (like this one from Elate Cosmetics) that has hydrating hyaluronic acid in it. Then mix one part foundation to two parts with you moisturizer (making a tinted moisturizer) and apply to the face. Concentrate more on the uncovered areas, and refresh when needed.
Before and after masking.
There are a few steps to consider before and after putting on your mask. Ensure you wash your hands and face before you put on your mask. This will help avoid a transfer of bacteria and oil found on your skin from being trapped under the mask or on the mask itself. After removal, if possible, give your face where the mask covered a quick cleanse. Use Micellar water base wipes (I keep in my purse) that are alcohol-free, fragrance-free, gentle and hydrating. After every use, I also wash my mask in a fragrance free, dye free detergent and lay out to air dry. Keep enough masks on hand to have a healthy rotation.
Supportive care through treatments
There are many treatments we offer in the clinic that lend a great deal of support to help with the after effects of mask wearing. One is Laser Genesis. This skin rejuvenation treatment helps reduce oil production and reduces redness. You can do this treatment in a series spaced 2 weeks apart and in combination with IPL (called a 2D) if you do develop acne.
Another is Dermaplaning. By removing the fine vellus hair or “peach fuzz” and exfoliating the skin in the mask area, you eliminate factors that trap dirt and oil. As well, clearing the skin for proper absorption of the products you will need to keep the skin hydrated.
Lastly, Oxegeneo 3-in-1 Super Facial. This deep facial helps improve new cell production and increase collagen. When your skin is under stress, caring for it on multiple levels is key. Oxegeneo infuses essential revitalizing nutrients and heals the skin with oxygenation from within.
