While wearing a mask is crucial to limiting the spread of viruses, it can also be hard on your skin, causing problems that range from acne to rashes and itchiness.
What is maskne anyway?
With face masks being worn more frequently these days, you might have noticed that your skin is breaking out more often, especially around your chin, mouth, and nose areas. Does this sound familiar? That’s because acne and irritation “AKA maskne” are caused by frequent use of face masks which can trap sweat, dirt, and might also cause frictional heat onto your skin leading to irritation.
The good news is there are several ways to keep your skin healthy and blemish-free while wearing a mask, with a thoughtful K-beauty skincare routine with gentle formulas, unique ingredients, and daily tips to keep maskne at bay.
MASKNE TIP #1: CLEANSING EVERY MORNING & NIGHT
Cleansing regularly is a great habit to keep your skin free from bacteria and acne, use a mild and and hydrating low-irritating foam cleanser to thoroughly cleanse your skin while avoiding disruption of your skin barrier. Try Illiyoon Ceramide Derma Amino Cleansing Foam day and night to wash away oil, dirt and sweat that build up on your skin’s surface from prolonged mask wearing. A gentle cleanser help to minimise stripping natural oils from the skin so skin stays heathy and glowing without feeling dry or cracked, while over cleansing your skin is a no-no!
MASKNE TIP #2: TRY CENTELLA ASIATICA
Centella Asiatica (cica) is a skincare superstar ingredient that targets inflammation and irritation. Maskne is tied to inflammation – using products that have ingredients celebrated for their anti-inflammatory properties can really help keep breakouts at bay. Not only that, centella asiatica also reduces the appearance of scars and blemishes, and soothe skin irritations. Try One Thing Centella Asiatica Extract , One Thing Centella asatica Serum, and Acne Skin Bundle.
MASKNE TIP #3: USE CERAMIDES FOR STRONGER SKIN BARRIER
Keeping your skin barrier fortified can go a long way to combat maskne. Your skin barrier is what prevents bacteria from going into your skin, and what helps to keep your skin strong and healthy.
Consider incorporating skincare products formulated with ceramides to help give your skin a boost of fatty acids without clogging your pores. Our bestselling Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream and Lotion are the perfect moisturisers to nourish, and keep your skin less vulnerable to breakouts.
MASKNE TIP #4: CHANGE/ CLEAN YOUR MASK
One of the best ways to protect your skin from breakouts is to ensure that your mask is clean and wash it after every use. If you’re using disposable masks, changing them throughout the day can reduce dirt and oils that may buildup on your face, thus preventing breakouts.
Avoid touching your face or picking your acne! By touching your face, you transfer germs and oil from your hands to your skin. Remember: clean your hands regularly and keep hands off your face.
MASKNE TIPS #5: TREATMENTS TARGETS BLEMISHES/IRRITATION
Incorporate blemish-banishing, soothing and calming formulars to your skincare routine. Be sure to opt for gentle and hydrating products without drying and agitate your skin. The Cosrx One Step Original Clear Pad is KBeauty cult favourite to gentle exfoliate and wipe off excess oil on your skin to prevent breakouts, use after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Try DR.G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream to calm and target redness and blemishes caused by maskne. And treat yourself with Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Sleeping Mask at night to hydrate your skin while providing soothing benefits.
MASKNE TIPS #6: RECHARGE WITH HYDRATING MIST
Keeping your skin hydrated can also help fight against maskne. Dehydrated skin can lead to an inflammatory response which can then trigger more oil production and increase breakouts. Having a mist to give light hydration top ups throughout the day can work wonders to combat maskne. Try our new Illiyoon Ceraide Ato Water Lotion to strengthen your skin barrier and hydrate your skin at the same time.
Kiss goodbye to maskne and say hello to fresh, clear, and healthy skin!