How To Stay Safe From Acne Caused By Disposable Masks?

Disposable face masks are a crucial weapon in the fight against COVID-19, but they aren’t for everyone’s skin.

Even if you don’t generally have acne or contact dermatitis, prolonged usage of a disposable face mask in Australia can induce skin problems, including acne and contact dermatitis.

Masks raise the skin’s warmth, wetness, and friction, making it more prone to irritation.

Although it’s impossible to give specific advice because everybody’s skin is unique, there are a few easy things that anyone can do to avoid skin problems caused by masks.

Skin issues and masks

Suppose you’ve seen photographs of health professionals on social networking sites. In that case, you’ll know that a disposable face mask in Australia can cause various skin problems, mainly when used for long periods. 

Because masks must be fitting, they can rub against the skin, causing friction, redness, chafing, and pain. Other typical adverse effects of mask use include acne, increased sensitivity, and general skin discomfort. 

Allergies can also occur, leading to irritation and rashes, even if a mask is disposable or cleaned often, or a handmade DIY facial covering that complies with official standards.

However, most of the time, such issues aren’t severe enough to justify not wearing a mask. Therefore, exclusions in Australia are only granted for severe skin problems that are not controllable by standard therapy, considering the significance of mask use in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Though these unfavourable side effects aren’t always unavoidable, there are some basic actions you can take to protect your skin when using a disposable face mask. So, whether you’re dealing with acne, rashes, or chafing, keep reading.

Maintain a straightforward approach to skin care

Dermatologists frequently state that consumers apply quite a lot of products of different types to their skin. The primary ones include serums, mask peels, day and night creams, oils, various exfoliators, and endless others!

Following such a complicated routine is difficult enough on its own, but when you add a mask to the mix, your skin may beg for assistance.

Dr Nixon suggests using a gentle cleanser, avoiding toners (which can dry out the skin), and moisturising before and after applying your mask.

A moisturiser will also be a barrier between the mask and the skin, preventing friction.

What to do if you have an acne breakout

Mask-related breakouts, or maskne as it’s known on the internet, is a kind of occlusive skin problem that occurs when debris and sweat clog pores.

The following are the best ways to treat it:

• Use salicylic acid or antibacterial compounds like benzoyl peroxide gel or azelaic acid in your products.
• Moisturisers should be used sparingly because oily skin-care products should be avoided.
• Makeup that clogs your pores should be avoided (mineral-based may be better).
• To dry out all the skin, try applying a toner.

Over-the-counter acne gels containing zinc and niacinamide may be beneficial. However, prescription medicines, such as topic retinoids, may be required in extreme situations.

In the End

COVID-19 prevention does not have to have a negative influence on your skin. However, according to dermatologists worldwide, mask-related skin issues are becoming more common, ranging from ‘maskne’ to redness and overall discomfort. 

However, these undesirable side effects are not always unavoidable, and the procedures outlined above should help you take care of your skin when wearing a disposable face mask.