Wearing a protective face mask is now a must to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but along with this precaution comes a new skincare concern: "Maskne." This coined term is from the words "mask" and "acne." The mask creates constant friction and humidity which could lead to pimples. Thankfully, there are products already available in the market that can help address this. Read on to see our recommendations:
How to Prevent '"Maskne"
Friction is what usually causes skin irritation, so it's important to apply a calming emollient product before putting on a mask. Check out the best soothing face creams you can try:
1. Physiogel Calming Relief A.l. Cream
If your skin is super sensitive, it's important that you protect it with a hypoallergenic cream like this. It strengthens the skin barrier so it becomes more resilient to friction and other environmental aggressors that may cause irritation.
PHYSIOGEL Calming Relief A.l. Cream, P845, Watsons
2. Dove DermaSeries Replenishing Face Cream SPF 15 Dry Skin Relief
You won't need to worry about this face cream clogging your pores because this has a lightweight formula. It's quick to absorb so you're sure that it will never give you a sticky feeling.
DOVE DermaSeries Replenishing Face Cream SPF 15 Dry Skin Relief, P900, Lazada
3. Innisfree Bija Cica Balm
The Innisfree Bija Cica Balm has Centella Asiatica, an ingredient that can soothe inflammation and calm down breakouts. Its gel-to-balm formula acts as a protective shield from the material of the mask.
INNISFREE Bija Cica Balm, P1,490, Innisfree
How to Treat "Maskne"
During Cosmopolitan Philippines' live consultation with Dr. Vicki Belo, it was discussed that "maskne" is the result of friction between the mask and skin and existing bacteria on the skin. Dr. Belo suggested that you wash your face and go over the cheeks, chin, and jawline with a toner that can get rid of trapped dirt as soon as you get home. We also recommend that you apply a spot treatment to help dry out the zits faster.
You can start your anti-maskne skincare regimen with these products:
1. COSRx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
It's important that you cleanse your face with a super gentle facial wash, preferably one with a low pH. A formula like this can restore the strength of the skin barrier so it will be less prone to breakouts and irritation.
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, P540, BeautyMNL
2. Beach Born Healing Toner
This toner is a delight to stressed skin: It's free from alcohol and has chamomile and aloe extract to soothe tired complexions and pimples. It also has witch hazel which helps heal zits. Also, this has the ability to treat breakouts overnight!
BEACH BORN Healing Toner, P280, Beach Born
3. V&M Naturals Cucumber + Guava Leaf Skin Clearing Toner
This calming toner can also double as a face mist you can use to reboot your skin at any time of the day. It promises to provide relief to irritated skin and heal breakouts.
V&M NATURALS Cucumber + Guava Leaf Skin Clearing Toner, P313. BeautyMNL
4. Oxecure Acne Clear Potion
Dab this spot treatment on the pimple to help it heal. It has salicylic acid to get rid of the breakout and niacinamide to brighten the mark the zit may leave behind.
OXECURE Acne Clear Potion, P349, Watsons
Bonus Tip: Always wear a clean mask.
A good way to prevent the spread of pimple-causing bacteria on the skin is to wear a freshly washed cloth mask or a new disposable mask. Also, medical experts advise to always wash your reusable mask right after use and to never "re-sanitize" a disposable mask with alcohol.
* This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Preview.ph editors.
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