How to Remedy Maskne

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

Face Mask: Bloomingdale's



With most of us hidden behind protective face masks for extended hours daily, our skin is understandably beginning to behave differently. While protective and effective, face masks are introducing a new environment to skin which is causing dreaded blemishes and acne (maskne). My inbox proved that I was not alone in this new struggle, as many readers are sending in emails seeking solutions to this new skin woe.

UNDERSTANDING MASKNE
Upon examining my own skin and maskne, I realized it was occurring in the same places and is caused by three important factors - friction, pressure and heat. My breakouts were targeted to my chin/mouth area due to the heat, below my jaw and upper cheekbone area due to the friction by the mask straps and finally, the bridge of my nose because of the pressure caused by the firm nose wire.


ACTIVE MASKNE
In my quest to remedy my active maskne, I've found products featuring acid exfoliants to be greatly effective. A chemical acid exfoliant like salicylic acid, a very commonly used beta-hydroxy acid, helps regulate skin and rids excess oil from pores all while featuring anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, opting for skincare products with such exfoliants helps skin in a wealth of ways including the removal of dead skin cells, hydration and pigmentation correction. 

To help heal my sometimes painful maskne, I turned to Caudalie's Vinopure range which is formulated with a balanced cocktail of natural salicylic acid, antioxidants and essential oils. Using their Vinopure Purifying Toner in tantum with the Vinopure Skin Perfecting Serum has not only aided in expelling acne-causing impurities sitting in my pores caused by the heat and steam from the mask but has improved the overall condition of my skin. 

For those pesky maskne blemishes, I love using a targeted treatment, like Clarins Clear-Out, which works wonders overnight. This direct solution gel is applied right on the breakout, calming it and infusing the inflamed bump with a healing concoction formulated with salicylic acid, meadowsweet and purslane extracts. Best of all, the nozzle tip design creates a mess-free application and the formula dries down clear. 

Finally, to minimize the maskne caused by friction, I've picked up the dermatologist-favorite MedZone Face Balm. Mimicking the same protective qualities of the friction-balm I use for high heel use, applying this on my high-friction areas (jaw and upper cheekbone), has created a protective barrier that has provided comfort and prevented new breakouts. 


MAINTENANCE 
Overall, face mask use is looking like a  long-term reality and seeking a lasting solution is a must. I've found that adding a skin care product rooted in balancing skin to my current maskne healing routine has proved to be beneficial. Kiehl's Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Concentrate has helped keep the redness at bay and greatly helps rebalance my congested and angry skin when maskne or other uncomfortable factors occur. This weightless oil assists in strengthening the skin's barrier which helps hold its moisture and fight active breakouts. The purifying properties of oregano oil coupled with the calming agents of the cannabis sativa seed oil make this concentrate an excellent long-term remedy to maintaining healthy skin. 



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