Mask acne is called “maskne” (of Anglo-Saxon origin), composed of the terms “Mask” and “Acne”. As you can imagine, this new term was born in recent times to explain the manifestation of some skin problems that are directly linked to the prolonged use of protective masks .
Mask Dermatitis: How to Recognize This Disorder
Mask dermatitis presents with the appearance of white pimples in the areas covered by the fabric, redness, itching and, in the most serious cases, with acne eruptions . Maskne is localized especially on the cheek area, on the chin, on the nose and around the lips .
More sensitive skin may also experience irritation, rashes and small abrasions. It is normal to notice more sensitized skin after using the device, but true mask acne can appear more persistently, with the appearance of:
- Comedones.
- Itching.
- Small cysts under the skin.
- Localized redness.
- Swelling.
- Dry skin.
- Flaking.
- Erythema.
All causes of maskne
Mask pimples are a sign of skin irritation, caused by:
- Rubbing and friction of tissue against the face that compromises the normal skin barrier.
- Increased humidity and temperature under the mask , caused by our breathing. In this way, the pH of the skin is altered, risking inflammation of the hair follicles.
- Poor oxygenation of the skin , which favors bacterial proliferation
Treatment and cure against mask pimples
To diagnose mask dermatitis, it is important to consult a dermatologist, who will be able to identify the type of problem and evaluate a specific treatment. In general, we recommend:
- Avoid synthetic fabrics in contact with the skin, especially in case of atopic contact dermatitis. It is better to prefer a cotton mask in contact with the face, and overlap the surgical one as needed.
- Do not use creams and cosmetics with excessively greasy formulations so as not to clog the hair follicles and prevent the accumulation of sebum.
- Always wash your hands before touching your face.
- Be sure to wash fabric masks with a gentle detergent and change surgical masks after each use.
- Never pick at the pimples that appear to avoid making the situation worse.
Prevent Mask Acne
To prevent acne from rubbing, we recommend first of all letting the skin breathe without a mask while we are outdoors or in the car alone, to promote natural skin oxygenation. To avoid maskne, we also recommend:
- Apply moisturizer to the areas that come into contact with the mask at least 30 minutes before leaving the house, so as to allow the product to penetrate the skin.
- Dedicate time every day to thoroughly cleansing your face , a fundamental step to remove all the impurities and bacteria that settle on the skin.
- To avoid the onset of seborrheic dermatitis, contact allergies and rosacea, it is good to use dedicated products, designed for the most sensitive skin. The Eucerin AtopiControl range is the right choice to reduce dryness, redness and itching, thanks to a unique active ingredient: a complex of soothing Licochalcone A and Ceramides that strengthen the skin barrier.
- Choose a mask that is not too tight to avoid continuous rubbing and replace disposable medical devices after each use.