Maskne: Mask + Dirt, Debris, Sweat & Bacteria = ACNE

What do you get when you combine mask-wearing with dirt, debris and bacteria?

MASKNE of course. This word is being used to describe acne caused from wearing a face mask.

I have had dozens of women reach out to me asking me WHY they are breaking out under their masks, and wondering WHAT they can do about it.

So, let's dive in.

The acne causing bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, we will call it P. acnes, thrives in low oxygen environments. When it gets trapped in the pore it stimulates the immune system causing pus and inflammation.

👉 Since P. acnes bacteria will proliferate in an anaerobic environment (low oxygen- like under your mask), there may be more of the bacteria present to clog pores and cause zits.

Here is what you should do:

• Remove your mask as often as possible (when it is safe to do so of course)

  • Take your mask off while driving

  • Take your work break outside so you can remove your mask

  • Gently move your mask away from your face every now and then to let air flow in

• Don’t wear make-up or SPF under your mask.

• If you notice dirt, debris or sweat building up under your mask, use a gentle cleanser (like Bioderma Sensibo Micellar Water) to wash it during the day.

  • Use this cleanser with cotton pad or a reusable bamboo pad, and gently rinse before putting your mask back on

• If using disposable masks, use a new one each day. If your acne is really bad, change the mask more often (this is not environmentally friendly, so you may want to invest in an 100% cotton reusable mask that you can wash each night).

• If using a reusable mask be sure to wash it every night with non-toxic detergent and dryer sheets. The chemicals, fragrance and waxes in these products stay on the fabric and can cause more breakouts when in close contact with your skin. Here is what I personally use and love.

  • Soap Nuts (non-toxic detergent)

  • Dryer Balls (non-toxic dryer sheet replacement)

• Don’t dry out your skin by washing it too often. When the skin is dry it will make more sebum to self-moisturize, which can trap the extra P. acnes that are present and cause more acne.

• Use a spot treatment under your mask. Since no one is going to see what is going on under your mask anyway, why not use this time to do some targeted healing? This is my favorite spot treatment that works miracles. (Note: don’t use it all over your face, it is too drying. Only use it on active breakouts).

Looking for more skin care advice? Take the quiz below 👇👇👇

I invite you to check out my Acne Skin Care Guides. They can make all the difference in the health of your skin. Learn more here!