As the world grapples with the “new normal” that includes social distancing and mask wearing, a new skin problem has arrived: the mask. The internet term for acne mask. This is a fancy way of referring to acne only on the lower half of your face. The technical term is acne mechanica.
What causes the mask?
The combination of friction, moisture, humidity and clogged pores is the perfect breeding ground for masks. This new skin concern is so widespread that 83% of health care workers in Hubei, China reported skin problems* as a result of using the mask for long periods of time.
In Victoria and other locations around the world, wearing a mask is now mandatory. And for good reason, it minimizes the spread of Covid-19. Our advice? Continue to wear the mask but change your skin routine and hygiene habits to prevent and treat the mask.
How to cure and prevent mask
Prefer a cotton mask
Disposable masks may be convenient, but they are not designed for long-term use. In fact, they should not be worn for more than 4 hours at a time. Instead, choose a mask made of breathable cotton fabric that sits comfortably on your face to prevent clogged pores and chafing.
Minimize makeup
Adding any kind of makeup to your skin will minimize your skin’s ability to breathe. Skip foundation and contouring and focus on the eyes if you must wear makeup.
Wash your mask after each use
Oil, dirt and sweat build up after just one use. Along with being hygienic and minimizing the spread of germs, a freshly washed mask will keep your face clean. We recommend using a natural cleanser and letting your mask dry in the sun.
Cleanse twice a day
Since your skin’s natural balance is disturbed by using a mask, you need to make cleansing a priority. Cleanse once in the morning and once at night when you remove your mask.
Choose a natural cleanser that will unclog your pores and protect your skin from pimples. We love the Olive Soothing Cream Cleanser designed for dry skin types. Our Purify Facial Cleanser is designed to treat oily, blemished skin.
Moisturize your skin
Using a mask can cause dry patches of skin where the mask rubs against your face. Combat this by moisturizing your skin after cleansing in the morning and evening. Make sure you choose a non-clogging, silicone-free product that will allow your skin to breathe.
Our Boost Balancing Moisturizer is designed for oily, combination and acne-prone skin. Our Olive Repair Cream is the perfect moisturizer for dry, sensitive skin.
Focus on Protection
Wearing a face mask for long periods of time means dirt and oil gets trapped. Protect your skin with Acai Berry Active Antioxidant Serum. It works to give your skin the energy it needs to fight harmful free radicals and pollution.
Dab it on your makeup-free face before stepping out with your mask.
Botani’s mask solution
Our Rescue Acne Cream has 99% killing factor and has been developed to treat acne prone skin. This blemish buster is meticulously formulated with the natural herbal active ingredient Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis). Gentle on your skin, Rescue Acne Cream provides soothing relief from red, irritated lesions without aggravating the surrounding healthy tissue.
Simply apply it to the affected areas twice a day after cleansing.
Stay safe!
Marissa h
