Open a glossy magazine today, or consult your usual go-to beauty sites, and you’ve probably read about Maskne, the new skin care concern of Covid times.
As the mandatory wearing of face masks has now become part of everyday life for many around the world, there has understandably been a rise in interest for skincare routines that treat and prevent Maskne.
Keen to understand more, we spoke to the French Beauty experts at MATIS to get their insight into the issue. MATIS is a brand 100% made in France, and promotes a type of beauty that is “expressive, natural, assumed and at ease with itself in motion”.
Read on to learn more about the ways in which your skincare routine can play a part in combating the pesky problems posed by Maskne - and adopt the beauty of being at ease with whatever life throws at you with MATIS!
What is Maskne?
MATIS describes Maskne as being “the development of redness, pimples and spots on the areas of the face that are covered by your mask - typically the chin, mouth, cheeks. “
They go on further to say that the pimples that appear as a result of wearing a mask usually have the appearance of shallow whiteheads rather than the painful red spots that are typical of regular blemishes.
Spots vary in size depending on how infected they become.
What causes Maskne?
Whiteheads are usually caused by blocked pores. Pores can easily become blocked through increases in your skin’s sebum or oil production.
The constant friction of a face mask on the skin creates little tears that allow dirt, bacteria, sweat, oil and makeup to enter the skin.
This can cause spot outbreaks, blemishes, inflamed hair follicles, irritation, and redness.
The lack of air circulation and air exposure to the face unfortunately encourages bacteria growth, meaning that blackheads, whiteheads or pimples can become more likely to appear.
It’s important to note that wearing a face mask can also exacerbate underlying or current skin conditions that you may have - such as Rosacea.
What can I do to prevent Maskne?
Cleanse skin thoroughly!
In order to avoid Maskne from happening, it is crucial to cleanse your face thoroughly twice a day.
Yes, as well as washing your hands and cloth mask on the regular, the need to cleanse your face has also become more important than ever.
This goes for whether you are using a single use or reusable face mask - wash your mask and wash your face!
The first product recommended by MATIS for cleansing your skin is the Matis Paris Reponse Jeunesse Essential Micellar Water. Suitable for all skin types, it gently traps and removes all dirt, traces of makeup, impurities and pollutants in one single movement, leaving the skin fresh and radiant.
This facial cleanser can be used as part of a double cleansing routine - use with a cotton pad or with a reusable makeup remover pad!
More sensitive and reactive skins on the other hand, require a very gentle cleansing product. Go for a no rinse, ultra-gentle make-up remover to eliminate make-up whilst respecting the skin. Products with creamy texture can bring immediate comfort and well-being to sensitive skin leaving it cleansed, soothed and protected.
Detox to avoid congested skin
Trapped moisture caused by a combination of breath, sweat and sebum can gather under the mask. This delightful combo can often lead to clogged pores. And you know what? Wearing a face mask also stops dead skin cells from shedding as they would normally do - which is a total nightmare.
MATIS recommend using a gentle exfoliation product once or twice a week to remove excess sebum and unclog your pores. For even better results, exfoliation can be followed by the use of a detox mask . The City Mood Mask from the Matis Paris Instant Mood Multi-masking Set contains spirulina and purifies the skin without drying it. The pores are tightened and the skin is fresh whilst respecting the fragile epidermis of blemish-prone skin is respected.
Protect your skin’s barrier function with a hydrating Moisturiser
The feeling of discomfort and skin irritation caused by the friction of the mask on the skin can be reduced by the use of a good moisturiser. Keeping the skin hydrated throughout the day is also really important as it improves the skin’s barrier function.
A moisturiser which contains Hyaluronic Acid can help to repair, stimulate, moisturize and protect the skin, helping it recover its glow. Apply a thin layer at the end of your skincare routine.
If you’ve been inspired by this article, shop all MATIS at allbeauty!
Want additional information and guidance on Maskne? Read our Winter Beauty Essentials interview with Rachel House, allbeauty Southampton’s salon expert.
