Are you suffering a breakout under your mask? How to fight “Masked”

To counter the epidemic of COVID-19, people with sensitive skin are more likely to see what is under the mask, the skin, as more states and companies across the country require people to wear face covers. Asks how to combat inflammation and acne.

Harry Dao, MD, FAAD, Loma Linda University Health Dermatologist Explains What Is Maskon and How to Prevent It.

According to Dao, masked men aren’t a new phenomenon because medical professionals wearing masks can prove this annoying skin problem, but the condition is even more widespread among the general public.

Maskne: what it is and why it happens

The medical term for “Masknet” is acne mechanica, a condition of the skin caused by prolonged wear of personal protective equipment on the face. “Masks impose heat, friction and blockages on the skin, and when combined with a moist environment from breathing, talking, or sweating, this is a breakout recipe,” Dao says. “Pores can become clogged and lead to acne and acne cysts. In addition, prolonged blockage, heat, and sweat can dry and itchy skin, leaving it alive.”

Acne is not the only skin condition reported by mask wearers, Dao says. Other common face mask skin problems include:

• Allergic contact dermatitis – Some manufactured masks may contain chemicals that cause an allergic reaction. Formaldehyde and bronopol are included in polypropylene surgical masks.
• Rosacea-like dermatitis – Classically aggravated by heat and stress, wearing a mask can increase flare.
• Seborrheic dermatitis – Causes scaly plaque, inflamed skin and stubborn dandruff.
• Folliculitis – When yeast or bacteria infect hair follicles.

How to prevent it

Dao offers 6 skin care tips to protect your face from mask irritation.

1. Wash your face first – Rinse with warm water using a gentle scent- and oil-free cleanser. “This prevents dirt and oils from getting trapped on the skin surface, which causes breakouts,” Dao says. “Before putting on your mask, your face must always be clean.”
2. Apply moisturizer – It not only moisturizes the skin, but also acts as a barrier between the face and the mask, reducing friction. Apply to cleansed face before and after wearing the mask. Dao says to look for moisturizers that contain ceramide, hyaluronic acid, or dimethicone. Be careful to avoid scents among other common contact allergens. This may take trial and error to find the right prescription for your skin type.
3. Throw away makeup – Wearing skin make-up under the mask causes clogged pores or pimples, American Dermatological Association.. The rest of the makeup also stains the mask.
4. Wash the mask – If you are wearing a cotton mask wash After every use, its surface contains dirt and oil and can be a breeding ground for bacteria from the nose and mouth.
5. Choose unscented laundry soap – Fragrances can irritate the skin—skip softeners as well.
6. Stay away from harsh products – Medicinal skin care products containing benzoyl peroxide, retinol, salicylic acid irritate the skin under the mask. Pay attention to usage and usage.

How to treat common skin problems

By doing this at home, Dao helps treat some of the most common mask-related skin problems.

1. Acne and pimples – Add a glycolic acid wash and a light “non-keratinizing” moisturizer to the pre-mask regimen. Move leave-on skin care products applications at home when you’re not wearing a mask. If you still have breakouts, redness, or swelling, talk to your doctor.
2. Dry skin – Always apply a good moisturizer to your skin before applying a mask. After taking off, cleanse the skin and apply a mild emollient. In general, care should be taken as natural or botanical substances may contain allergenic products.

When to see a doctor

According to Dao, if the skin care tips above do not make any difference to your skin, it may be time to contact your dermatologist. He encourages visits, whether in person or via telehealth. My chart, If you notice signs of infection such as redness or pus.

“By implementing proper skin care routines, we can reduce mask-related skin irritation and maskon,” he says.

You can also call to schedule an appointment or request more information. 909-558-2890 Or by visiting the Department of Health Dermatology at Loma Linda University website..