How to tackle ‘maskne’

How to tackle 'maskne'

As we’ve embraced mask-wearing to prevent the spread of the virus, we’ve come across an unanticipated issue: mask acne, or ‘maskne.’ 

(There is a more technical name for it – acne mechanica – but let’s be honest, maskne is a tad more hashtaggable.) 

While for most of us, 'maskne' is a new and certainly unwanted problem, we shouldn’t let the fear of blemishes stop us from donning the face-mask. You can do a few things to ensure you’re protecting your skin while protecting those around you. 

But 'maskne' isn’t the only skincare issue that can result from wearing a face-covering. We’ll cover three key issues – face-covering related dryness, face-covering related blemishes, and bacteria build-up – and explore some of the best Garnier Pure Active products for fighting back. 

So without further ado let’s learn about some of the most common face-covering related skin concerns.

Maskne: face-mask related blemishes

First off, what is maskne? Maskne is blemishes caused by wearing a face-mask. If you’ve noticed more pimples and spots popping up around the area your mask covers, you’re most likely dealing with a case of 'maskne'. 

What makes 'maskne' different from regular acne is that it’s directly caused by the friction of fabric against your skin. Our faces aren’t used to face-masks, and the friction results in irritation and micro-tears, which in turn allow dirt, oil, and bacteria to creep beneath the surface and clog our pores.  

We also shed dead skin cells throughout the day – it’s a natural process that helps manage blemish formation. However, when we wear face-masks, we’re restricting airflow, which means dead skin cannot shed fully and instead ends up clogging our pores, causing blemishes.

So, what can you do about it? Well, quite a bit, as it turns out. Garnier has a range of products suited to help tackle 'maskne'. For example, Pure Active 3 in 1 Clay Mask Scrub Wash Oily Skin is a face wash, face scrub, and clay mask all rolled up in one.

Our Pure Active range also offers the Charcoal Anti-Blackhead Peel Off Mask – ideal for deep cleansing your pores – and the Charcoal Anti-Blackhead Exfoliating Stick. Infused with charcoal, which offers naturally exfoliating properties, these Garnier products can help you to manage mask-related skin concerns. 

Understanding “clinically proven” products

Clinically Proven means that trained experts and dermatologists have tested our products in a clinical environment to ensure high quality and efficacy. 

All Pure Active products are tested under dermatological control to guarantee their efficacy.

Now that you know a little more about what 'maskne' is and how to tackle 'maskne', and other skin concerns associated with face-mask wear, why not explore our Pure Active range, right here. 

Thirsty skin: face-covering related dryness

Dryness is one of the key issues associated with wearing a face-covering. Moisturising helps reduce dryness, chafing, and friction by hydrating the skin. Gently moisturise immediately after washing your face and before and after wearing your face-covering. 

You should also consider our Moisture Bomb Pomegranate Hydrating Mask, which is ideal for dehydrated skin after a long day out and about in your face-covering. Before you head to bed, why not try the Nutri Bomb Milky Sheet Mask Coconut and Hyaluronic Acid – it’s a wonderful way to nourish and rehydrate your skin. 

Finally, it’s important to remember that dryness can extend to your eye bags as well. Garnier’s Moisture Bomb Hyaluronic Acid & Orange Juice Eye Sheet Mask provides intense hydration while reducing the appearance of eye bags. 

Bacteria build-up: need to thoroughly cleanse

Another result of wearing face-coverings is that the area around our nose, mouth, and chin becomes humid as condensation and sweat gets trapped between skin and mask. This can encourage the growth of bacteria, eventually leading to blemishes. 

It’s essential to choose the right products; otherwise, you’ll risk making the problem worse. Consider using Garnier’s Micellar Cleansing Water to gently remove impurities and dirt whilst soothing your skin! Why not cut back on the cotton wool and try Micellar Reusable Make-up Remover Pads? The perfect cleansing duo after taking off your mask. These sustainable pads are ultra-soft and easy to wash and re-use (each pad lasts for up to 1,000 washes!).