How to manage your “Maskne”

I’m sure this time last year no one was expecting to have quite as much break out activity..especially not because of a mask. In-fact mask related breakouts have become so common, estheticians and dermatologists alike have dubbed this breakout “Maskne”. Maskne is a type of break out referred to as acne mechanica, if you play sports that require a helmet you would be very familiar with these little pimples that appear on your forehead. For those unfamiliar, it is a breakout caused by the friction of fabric rubbing against the skin as well as anything that gets trapped between the fabric and skin. In this case the mask rubs against our cheeks, chin and nose and traps moisture and other particles within. The result is Maskne, and although it is slightly inconvenient, I am sure we will all agree it is a small sacrifice to make for the health of our friends and family.

However, hope is not lost! There are a few ways you can do to avoid Maskne at home.
First of all, treat your mask like underwear! If you are using a reusable mask make sure you wash it after each and every use, bacteria, makeup ad moisture gets trapped in the fabric and this can lead to breakout activity.
Next, the ideal mask is 100% cotton. Cotton masks are more breathable and gentle on the skin. For my makeup lovers out there, it is time to say goodbye to your foundation for the foreseeable future. Further, It also would not hurt to reassess your diet, ditch dairy and processed foods and keep hydrated, healthy skin begins from within!
However, the single most important thing you can do for your skin is to maintain a solid skin care regime. We suggest Dermalogica products such as the overnight retinol serum, and the hydro exfoliant masque. These products encourage cell turnover and help get all that trapped dirt and bacteria out of your skin. Further, you should always always be cleansing twice a day with a gentle cleanser such as ultra calming cleanser or special cleansing gel and lets not forget our precleanse. As always, you should be using your spf and moisturizing! We recommend calm water gel or oil free matte moisturiser to hydrate and combat maskne.

Unsure of what products to use or worry your skin is beyond at home care? Come in and see our team of amazing, knowledgeable estheticians. At Imagine we will treat you to a customized dermalogica skin treatment based on your skin condition and concerns. In the treatment room we will double cleanse and provide a good exfoliation, we will extract any black heads that your mask may be causing. Next, we will provide you with a relaxing facial massage before we apply a beautiful hydrating masque. While that sits, we will treat you to a soothing hand and arm massage. To finish off, we will provide you with an acne and irritation fighting serum followed by an eye treatment and moisturizer. You will leave feeling absolutely glowing and relaxed, your skin will thank you! But before you go our talented team will help pick products best suited for your skin and for fighting the dreaded maskne! Give us a call and let's get your skin back to normal, even if nothing else is!