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What is maskne?

From their mandatory requirement in all supermarkets and shops, to public transport, and even in workplaces, masks have become a major part of our lives. But if you’ve found that wearing a mask plays havoc with your skin, you aren’t alone. In fact, mask-related skin concerns have become so commonplace that they’ve earned their own term: Maskne.

So to find out how best to protect and treat mask-related skin concerns, we asked Dr. Jonquille Chantrey for her expert tips and advice.

What is Maskne?

“Generally, it describes irritation in the area around the mouth, nose, chin and lower cheek ” explains Dr. Jonquille Chantrey. “There are a few contributing factors to consider. Certain patients may be more predisposed – such as those who suffer with acne, rosacea, eczema and allergies to the mask fibres or chemicals. Also there is a frictional element which may be seen in those with no history of skin conditions in this area”.

How to prevent Maskne?

One of the main ways of preventing Maskne is by washing your masks regularly and changing them frequently. “Try to have regular breaks when socially distanced, and choose a soft, breathable, natural fabric,” advises Dr. Jonquille Chantrey. “You should also try to reduce makeup use and if needed choose oil-free foundations”.

What about skincare? “An antioxidant serum such as SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF can contribute to reducing oil oxidation in this process. You should also reduce moisturising in the lower third of the skin if you’re prone to blemishes instead use SkinCeuticals Blemish and Age Defense serum in this area. Start to incorporate retinol at night to assist in managing comedones and sebum. Finally, to reduce friction, choose a mask that fits well but is not too tight”.

Additionally, you can cool irritation with SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective serum. Ideal for blemish-prone and sensitised areas, it soothes and hydrates the skin and helps to improve an uneven skin tone.

What’s the best type of routine for Maskne?

“I highly recommend SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Range for many of my patients right now,” says Dr. Jonquille Chantrey. “The combination of the cleanser, toner and serum contain alpha and beta hydroxy acids that can help to reduce sebum and inflammation. In the patients that are particularly prone to Maskne, I would suggest also adding in Silymarin CF as the antioxidant of choice. In the evening, repeat the cleanser and toner and apply retinol. For those where it may be more frictional, they may want to reduce the dose of retinol in the area affected and/or use Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2”.

If you also wear sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage, choose a matte mineral formula that won’t add too much oil to the skin. SkinCeuticals Mineral Matte UV Defense is ideal for oily and blemish-prone skin types as it minimises the appearance of sweat and shine and maintains a matte finish – even in hot, humid conditions, such as beneath a mask.

Discover SkinCeuticals full range of expert skincare