How To Get Rid of Maskne and Irritation from Your Face Mask

If you're seeing bumps and pimples emerge on your chin and cheeks in places you've never had them before, you're not alone. Breakouts and rashes from regular mask-wearing have become common issues, affecting even those not previously prone to acne, says Santa Monica-based board-certified dermatologist Sonia Batra. "In my practice, I am seeing more breakouts, flares of rosacea, irritation, and sometimes allergic rashes from mask use. Masks can trap makeup, dirt, oil, and sweat on the skin, leaving a pore-clogging film," she explains. And if you already have reactive skin? Well, the situation might be even worse. "Heat and friction from the mask can also increase inflammation, which worsens breakouts," Batra adds.

The condition has joined our unique lexicon of 2020 as maskne, a less fun amalgamation of words than Quarantini, but a similar sign of the times. Being conscientious about covering our noses and mouths means that we are also, unfortunately, creating pore-clogging conditions in the steamy region that traps our every exhale. So what's to be done? Mostly, it's a matter of vigilance (what isn't these days?), and maybe tweaking your skincare game a bit. But rest assured, maskne can be brought under control.

First? Keep it clean. In addition to washing your mask frequently, being mindful of washing your face both before putting a mask on and after taking it off will keep accumulated sweat or pore-clogging dirt at bay. Exfoliating two to three times a week can also sweep away dead skin cells and keep skin's surface smooth and free of debris, and any spots can be directly treated with salicylic acid or even occlusive acne patches, which hermetically seal off pimples until they fade away.

Your skincare and makeup regimen might also require a rethink, says Batra. "Avoid heavy or occlusive products under the mask, including thick makeup or very greasy moisturizers, that can clog pores." Instead, opt for a light moisturizer that will deliver hydration "while protecting the skin from friction and helping to keep the skin’s barrier intact." At night, she adds, "using a retinoid such as adapalene will help decrease oil gland activity" and increase cell turnover.

For persistent, particularly virulent maskne, a dermatologist will be able to prescribe stronger solutions, but Batra advises that over-the-counter buys should be enough to keep skin in the clear (lifestyle choices such as getting enough sleep and managing stress will help, too). Here, some of the most recommended skin soothers and breakout busters to keep maskne at bay.