Put simple, Maskne is characterized by blemishes and irritation around the areas covered by your cloth face mask. Unlike other forms of acne, Maskne is not super intuitive to treat. However with a little diligence and loving self-care, you’ll be on your way to clearer skin in no time. Read on to learn how to protect your skin while wearing a mask...
Step 1
Wash Your Face Before and After Wearing a Mask
These days, you’re likely spending a lot of time washing your hands, but don’t forget to be kind to your face! Washing your face before AND after wearing a face mask is the first step to preventing and treating Maskne. If you mask up with an unwashed face, you’re actually helping to “push” the acne-causing bacteria deep into the skin. Consider washing your face each time you leave the house and cleanse again once you’re home. It may sound like a lot of work, but your face will thank you!
Additionally, it may seem counterintuitive when tackling Maskne, but ideally you’ll be reaching for your most gentle facial cleanser. Harsh chemicals are the enemy to skin irritation! We recommend Ocean Cleansing Milk, a soothing mineral-rich cleanser that calms irritation and stressed out skin. Limit the use of AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) and traditional acne treatments such as Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid which may be drying to an already compromised skin barrier. Using a gentle face wash will help repair the skin’s protective barrier, resulting in clearer looking skin.
Step 2
Refresh Skin with a Mineral Mist
After cleansing, use our cooling hydrating mist to refresh skin before and after wearing your mask. Sea Minerals Mist provides weightless hydration, plumps the look of skin and is loaded with nutrient-rich seaweeds for a dewy glow.
Step 3
Serums and Moisturizers for Barrier Protection
Next up, we recommend applying a hydrating serum for barrier repair, like Hyaluronic Sea Serum. Two molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, combined with Japanese Miru seaweed help to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier. Plus it leaves your skin looking dewy and youthful!
Follow with a lightweight moisturizer to seal everything in. Steer clear of oil free moisturizers which can perpetuate the Maskne cycle by stripping skin of crucial hydration. We love Blemish Balm for its soothing jojoba oil and seaweed base, as well as its cleansing properties, courtesy of thyme, juniper and tea tree oils.
Step 4
Wash Your Face Mask and Choose Wisely
Ideally, you’ll want to wash your cloth face mask after wearing it. Use unscented, natural detergent whenever possible. If you choose to use a medical grade mask, swap it out for a new one after each use. Choose a mask that fits well, and creates as little friction as possible on the skin. Stay up to date with mask wearing by following CDC guidelines.
Step 5
Don’t Sleep on It
While your Maskne is healing, try sleeping on your back to avoid irritation. If you’re a side sleeper, you may find it helpful to place a bolster or pillow under your knees for low back support and help you stay put. A few times a week, use our Red Algae Clarifying Mask to decongest and purify skin. It uses three red seaweeds, plus bentonite clay to draw out impurities and remove excess oils, without stripping. Take some deep breaths. You got this!
