How do you stop a mask from giving pimples?

To slow the spread of COVID-19, face masks are now part of our daily routine. They are now required in many public places, such as restaurants and grocery stores, as a barrier against the new coronavirus that spreads through respiratory droplets.

If you develop breakouts from wearing a mask, you’re not alone. This condition, known as “maskne” (mask acne), is a common side effect of using a mask.

Maskne doesn’t simply cause pimples, though. It may also result in skin issues, including redness, bumpiness, and irritation. It can also trigger conditions such as dermatitis and folliculitis.

If you’re concerned about maskne — whether it’s acne or other skin flareups resulting from mask use — read on. We’ll explore why it happens and ways to manage them.

What to know about maskne skin conditions

Generally, “maskne” is an umbrella term for several skin conditions that can stem from wearing a face mask or covering.

It can include:

• Acne. Acne happens when your pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and dirt. It can cause pimples, whiteheads, or blackheads. It is more likely if you have a history of acne, it but can affect anyone. It seems to bemost commonin people using surgical masks and some types of respirator.
• Rosacea. If you have rosacea, wearing a mask may cause flareups. This can lead to pimples and redness.
• Irritant contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis occurs when you’re allergic or sensitive to the material of your mask. It can result in a red rash, along with irritation and blisters. It is the most common type of mask reaction and often affects the cheeks and the bridge over the nose. People who use a mask for6 hoursor more without a break and those with a compromised skin barrier are more at risk. Symptoms range from dry, scaly patches to skin ulceration.
• Atopic eczema. Also called atopic dermatitis, skin symptoms can appear or worsen in people whose skin is sensitive due to eczema, because of the irritant effect of wearing a mask.
• Periofacial dermatitis. This is a condition where small pimples develop around the eyes and mouth. It can happen while wearing a mask after using cosmetics or corticosteroid creams or for no apparent reason.
• Folliculitis. Folliculitis, or an infection of your hair follicles, causes bumps that look like an acne breakout. You might also experience itchiness or pain.

• Urticaria. Wheals, or hives, can result from the downward pressure of some types of masks or from contact with allergens, such as latex, in those who are susceptible. Pressure urticaria can appear at once or within24 hours. Allergic urticaria usually appears at once and disappears within 24 hours after removing the trigger.
• Seborrhoeic eczema. In this type of dermatitis, greasy yellow scales develop, mainly on the scalp, forehead, eyebrows, and in folds around the nose and lips.

If you already have one of these conditions, you may be more prone to developing maskne, but wearing a mask regularly can also cause symptoms to arise for the first time.

Some masks and face coverings, such as those used in a healthcare setting, can lead to more severe skin changes because of the material used and the fit of the protective equipment.

What causes it?

Because maskne can involve various skin conditions, the exact cause of your symptoms may vary.

In most cases, maskne is the result of clogged pores. You already have oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells on your skin. But when you wear a mask, these substances can build up more and block your pores.

A mask also traps humidity due to your breathing and sweating, which may increase the risk of acne.

Another possible cause is friction. The material of a face covering can rub against your skin, leading to chafing and irritation.

Or you may be sensitive or allergic to the material of your face covering. Some masks are pretreated with chemicals or feel rough on the skin. Similarly, washing a mask in a scented detergent may lead to irritation.

How to treat maskne

It’s essential to keep wearing a face mask, even if you have maskne. Keeping your mouth and nose covered is one of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you from COVID-19.

Finding a suitable mask can help prevent maskne, but there are also ways of treating symptoms if they arise.

Let’s take a closer look.

Wash your face regularly

During the pandemic, continue following your regular skincare routine to keep your skin healthy.

This includes washing your face:

• once in the morning
• once at night, before going to bed
• after sweating or wearing a mask

When washing your face, use lukewarm water. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing your skin as this may cause irritation. Use simple soaps and cleansers.

Get some tips on soaps for managing skin breakouts.

Use a gentle cleanser

A gentle cleanser can help remove excess oil, sweat, and bacteria. Avoid cleansers that contain alcohol or perfume. These ingredients can cause irritation and make it harder for your symptoms to heal.

If your maskne is more severe, or if it still persists after trying these recommendations, follow up with your dermatologist or healthcare provider.