Will Wearing a Mask Cause an Acne Flare-Up, lets find out in this post. In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly suggests using a cloth face mask in public settings. This includes situations where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. While businesses continue to operate all across the country, individuals should wear face coverings whenever possible.
RareV also proudly adheres to these guidelines at our clinic. Whether you are an essential worker or wear a mask to the grocery store, you may have noticed some blemishes or skin irritation as a result of your mask. These acne flare-ups have become so common that the medical community has created a term to fit this condition – “maskne.”
If you struggle with acne breakouts, double board-certified physician Dr. Raj Singh is here to help. We provide advice about acne causes and treatments in Las Vegas, NV.
What is acne?
So, what is acne? Acne is a mixture of pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, and other inflamed areas on the skin. Even though acne is often associated with teenagers going through puberty, adults of all ages experience breakouts too. Acne varies in severity and can show up at almost any time. Since acne on the face is most noticeable, it can negatively impact your self-esteem and confidence. While most cases are mild and can be treated with an at-home cleansing routine, many individuals have it so bad that scarring occurs.
Will Wearing a Mask Cause an Acne Flare-Up?
Public health officials across the U.S. have implemented measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. Jurisdictions have either encouraged or mandated people to wear face coverings when in public. Most employers are also obligated to provide masks for workers to stop the spread of coronavirus. When the skin is confined beneath a mask, however, this creates a less-than-ideal environment for the skin. Sweat, oil, and cosmetics become trapped under the mask and clog pores.
This is what results in maskne. Acne breakouts actually occur for a number of different reasons, such as hormonal changes related to puberty and pregnancy. Certain medications and drugs or a poor diet also contribute to painful flare-ups. When individuals wear face masks in everyday situations, it is easier for bacteria to settle into the pores and can lead to further damage. Whether your acne is caused by medications, masks, or a combination of the two, RareV can create a proper acne treatment program for you.
How to prevent maskne?
Whether COVID-19 requires you to wear surgical, disposable, or cloth masks, there are ways to prevent maskne and future breakouts. Follow these tips to keep your skin looking fresh and clear in Las Vegas, NV:
- Wash your face regularly: cleansing your face in the morning and at night prevents the buildup of bacteria and oil. Steer clear of any exfoliating products that dry out or irritate the skin.
- Wear a silk face mask: silk or silk-lined masks are gentle on the skin and have antimicrobial properties. If silk is not available, cotton is a light breathable fabric that reduces sweat and oil production.
- Avoid makeup on the lower half of your face: when products like foundation and blush mix with sweat, the pores are more likely to clog. Individuals can still use eye makeup, such as mascara, above their mask if they choose.
Common acne treatments
To return the skin to a healthy appearance, the skin care professionals at RareV offer options, such as medications, laser procedures, and regenerative techniques. Our philosophy for treating breakouts is to provide patients with the best acne treatments, so that any future problems, such as scarring, are minimized. We also teach you how to get your acne under control, so that wearing a mask is not detrimental to the skin.
For mild cases of acne, we offer solutions that contain sulfur, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. Oral antibiotics like doxycycline, minocycline, or tetracycline are also effective. In addition to these methods, laser treatments clean and attack dead skin cells to decrease inflammation and pigmentation issues associated with acne flare-ups. Some patients receive a combination of services based on their needs.
Learn more about acne treatment in Las Vegas
So what is acne, and how can a physician help? If you experience acne flare-ups because you wear face coverings on a regular basis, RareV offers real solutions for your skin. Double board-certified physician Dr. Raj Singh will take a detailed history and create an individualized treatment plan based on your needs. We set the standard for acne treatment in Las Vegas, NV by offering a range of comprehensive services in-house. Learn about maskne and more by scheduling a skin consultation today.
