Maskne is real, but how do you fight it? Two skincare professionals weigh in

Wearing a mask in a COVID-plagued world is the new normal but it may have unintentional side effects on your skin. Freelance writer, Anne Lora Scagliusi investigates.

Whether you're in disbelief that it exists or entirely convinced that the new spots rampaging like a baboon on your face are maskne, one thing is for sure: you are not alone in your breakout blues.

Since we can't do without masks these days, it seems there's no escaping maskne. But thankfully, there are ways in which you can alleviate the affects of wearing a mask for prolonged periods. We reached out to Scotland's leading skincare experts to discover how to stop maskne from reoccurring.

Image courtesy of Reformation

First thing’s first: is maskne real?  
Julie Brown, founder of The Source Clinic Edinburgh, demystifies that maskne (or mask acne) is indeed a thing. 'Yes, maskne is real!' she said. 

'It is caused by the friction of the masks. [It is due to] wearing them over long periods without allowing fresh air to the affected area. It tends to occur where the mask is covering the face or where it is touching the skin.'

Maskne is a term referring to an acne or skin irritation that results from wearing a mask, particularly for long portions of time, with the first cases being reported by healthcare and frontline workers. Frances Turner Traill, owner and clinical director of FTT Skin Clinics, shares her first-hand experience from clinics across Scotland, which were inundated with requests for help. 'Many key workers working during COVID 19 started to notice their skin was breaking out much more than previously, most likely due to wearing masks and visors for considerably longer periods,' enlightens Turner Traill. 

How do we distinguish maskne from other skin conditions?
Maskne is caused by the constant friction against your face, as well as trapped air and moisture which can create or exacerbate existing skin problems. How to distinguish a typical breakout from a maskne is quite crucial, but experts say you can tell them apart. 

The area of the face regularly in contact with a face mask develops maskne: the bridge of your nose, your cheeks and your chin. Even under the eyes in extreme cases.

Brown explained that maskne would most likely appear as a breakout although a bit more severe or persistent than usual. She said that the humidity in the mask creates a breeding ground for bacteria, meaning acne can occur. 'These will be deeper, more inflamed, and make the skin more sensitive.'  

Can you combat maskne?
'Skin is the biggest organ in your body; it needs to be able to breathe,' Turner Traill advises. 

 'Double cleansing every morning and kickstarting with your skincare regimen as soon as you get home helps remove dirt and all the environmental factors that you can't see. Of course, it also helps to remove makeup and SPF, too, as these products can help bacteria thrive. 

'The top tip from theatre staff who habitually worn masks all day is that they tend not to wear full-face makeup; instead, they concentrate on the eyes with a strong brow and some mascara,' continues Turner Traill. 

She also advises to avoid wipes, moisturisers, and sunbeds, and ensure to book in for a skin check-up with a reputable HIS registered medical skin clinic, such as FTT Skin Clinics. They can guide, advice, and support you with your skin health needs. 

Coming back to your skincare regime, you must use the right cleanser for your skin type. 'A gentle exfoliator is the cleanser I recommend most frequently,' reveals Brown. 'One that can be used regularly, such as a lactic acid, will give the best results. Our favourite is AlumierMD Bright & Clear, which works to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin while working to decongest and stimulate new healthy cells.'

Brown also stresses the importance of keeping your skin hydrated, not only when you find yourself suffering from a breakout, but continuously. 'Drink lots of water and use hyaluronic acid to combat drying skin,' she advises. 

What's better—reusable or one-use masks? 
Whether you're using store-bought disposable paper masks or washable fabric masks, they both do a similar job. Brown suggests that, if you're using a disposable mask, then be sure to change it regularly, while reusable masks should be washed daily. She also said to be mindful of where you store your masks when you're not using them. 'Is your pocket or handbag clean enough to rub your face in?' Noted. 

Are there any products we should avoid using?
To address, or at least alleviate, the issue, Turner Traill suggests considering a skin scan assessment to find out what your skin needs and, equally as important, what it doesn't.  

'Most of my clientele find themselves confused about which products work for their skin. While each case and client is entirely different, I always advise ditching face wipes and using SPF daily. That, and don't even think about going near a sunbed. It's beneficial, however, to have a more acute understanding of the individual needs of your skin, which can then be better treated.'

As far as creams and moisturisers go, Brown advises we avoid using heavy formulations during the day if we finding our skin is breaking out. She also stresses that we should make an effort not to touch the skin too much, and try to limit wearing full makeup if you know you are going to be wearing your mask for hours on end.