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What is mascne?
If you’ve been noticing increasingly frequent breakouts and irritated skin where your face mask lies at, you’re not the only one. It’s happened to a lot of people, and has been dubbed as “mascne” (a portmanteau of the words mask and acne). It’s known medically as acne mechanica, and it’s not a new thing — athletes with headgear and face guards have long been experiencing it. For the general population? Well, it’s just that we haven’t had to misfortune of triggering it.
What causes mascne?
Mascne is caused by a number of different factors, the trigger point being your face mask. For one, your mask rubs against the skin, causing friction and irritating it. Breathing out into the mask traps sweat and dirt, resulting in a breeding ground for clogged pores. Add moisture and humidity to the mix — you’ve got a formula for breakouts.
How can mascne be avoided?
While we can’t quite ditch the face masks yet, these 4 tips may help reduce the possibility of mascne occuring:
- Avoid using makeup on your face. Makeup clogs your skin, so all the better to skip it during this time! Plus, no one will see your face, and you can spend more time in bed each morning!
- Wash your skin regularly. Getting the gunk out of your pores is key to preventing an acne flare up. Choosing a gentle face wash will help in reducing skin irritation as well. Avoid facial cleansers with irritants — they’ll only further aggravate the skin!
- Protect your skin with moisturiser. Using a light moisturiser will not only keep your skin hydrated, but also protect your skin against chafing from your mask. Avoid the heavier moisturisers for now as the mask helps keep moisture in. Double win!
- Make sure you mask is clean. Your mask is a hotbed for mucus, sweat, germs and dirt. Make sure to change your mask regularly, and if you’re using a reusable mask, soak it in hot water at the end of each day.
Vaniday has got you covered with COVID-19 supplies. Step up your mask game with an antimicrobial mask. Not only will it protect you against germs, it’ll also kill bacteria — chances for mascne are lessened considerably. When it comes to your skin, there’s no such thing as being kiasu. Double the protection with 3-ply mask filter.
COVID-19 may be here to stay for awhile more, but following these tips will help you make the best of the current situation. Plus, don’t forget about your regular facial! Getting in there and giving your pores a really thorough clean will help you keep your skin in tip-top shape. Not sure where to go? From organic facials, brightening facials, to anti-ageing facials, Vaniday has a facial to suit every need and budget out there.
Follow VaniZine for more skincare tips and the latest mask know-how.
The best salons are just a click away. Visit Vaniday and book a facial today — with good skin, mascne will be a thing of the past!
