Skin Deep Beauty by Christine Lindsay

It’s now October 2020 and the CDC mask recommendation has now evolved into a mask mandate. The term maskne simply refers to acne caused by a face mask, and is actually referring to a condition called Acne Mechanica. Acne Mechanica refers to the eruption of acne triggered by trauma, friction, and rubbing from clothing or sports equipment. This is often seen on football players, and is where the term backne derived from.

While it’s important to maintain public health, it’s also important to maintain the health and integrity of our skin. A study was recently published by Clinics in Dermatology focusing on skin problems related to personal protective equipment. New York Dermatologist Dr. Hadley King says “health care workers need their masks to be tight fitting for best efficiency, but the trade off is that masks can cause abrasions, cuts, redness, irritation, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Dr. Joshua Zeickner, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research on Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York states, “There are two main ways face masks can damage the skin. First, direct friction can lead to the skin barrier disruption, irritation, and inflammation. Second, masks can trap oil, dirt, and sweat on their skin, leading to flares of conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea. The biggest issue we are likely to see is acne breakouts under your face mask as oil and sweat are trapped in the skin. We may start to see heat rash-like reactions because the masks occlude the skin, and prevent the release of heat”.

Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky Pollock states “over 97% of health care workers on the frontlines fighting COVID-19 will experience skin issues. Recent studies show this complication can result in decreased morale, increased risk for developing infections in the skin(bacteria, fungal, viral) from poor barrier function, and open sores. Damaged skin may not allow for masks to seal properly leading to increased exposure to COVID-19 particles.”

Prevention & Treatment

Preventing damage to the skin is key. A daily SPF is very important, and should be reapplied every two hours. It’s recommended to have multiple masks on hand to prevent having to reuse one. If you are using a cloth mask, always wash your mask with a hypoallergenic detergent after use before wearing it again. A protective barrier like Lira Clinical Bio Recovery Balm which is infused with Aloe, gold, silver, and vitamins A and E to treat, and protect your skin will help protect the skin while wearing a mask. It’s very important during these times to keep up with your at home skincare regimen. Do not skip out on any steps, and talk to your esthetician for suggestions. You can also prevent skin damage by swapping out your foundation for a BB cream which is a hybrid that will protect your skin with an spf, and hydrate it with a moisturizer while leaving you with a tinted glow.

Dry Skin

If you’re struggling with dry skin as a result from wearing a face mask it’s very important for you to hydrate your skin. Using products with hyaluronic acid like Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Booster will help the integrity of your skin.

Sensitive Skin/Roasacea

If you’re noticing more inflammation, and redness than usual try switching to non-comedogenic products if you’re not already using them. I recommend Dermalogica Redness Relief, and Calm Water Gel.

Acne & Breakouts

If you are currently struggling with acne, and breakouts be sure to wash your face as soon as your shift is over. Use a cleanser with salicylic acid such as Lira Clinical Ice Sal Cleanser, a topic retinol serum such as Lira Clinical Pro C4 Retinol Serum, and use a moisturizer such as Lira Clinical Ice Balancing Lotion.

Rashes

If you currently have a rash it’s important to contact your doctor to have this ruled out as a symptom.

Maskne Home Care Regimen

If you’re struggling with maskne, I have the perfect home care regimen for you! All products are available in my Glymed Plus shop.

Products You Will Need

These are the products you’ll need for the regimen! They are all available in my Glymed Plus store!

Gentle Facial Wash

The Gentle Facial Wash is available here. A trial size is available for $3!

CBD-B3 Facial Mist

The CBD-B3 Facial Mist is available in my Glymed Plus shop.

Living Cell Clarifier

The Living Cell Clarifier is available in my Glymed Plus Shop.

Oxygen Treatment Cream

The Oxygen Treatment Cream is available in my Glymed Plus shop!

Photo-Age Environmental Protection Gel 15

The Photo-Age Environmental Gel 15 is a very important step! It is available in my Glymed Store. A trial size is available for purchase.

Mega Purifying Cleanser

Mega Purifying Cleanser is available here. A trial size is available for purchase.

Oxygen Deep Pore Cleanser

Oxygen Deep Pore Cleanser is available in my Glymed Plus Shop.

Sulfur Masque

Sulfur Masque is available here.

Home Care Regimen

Here’s the routine you’ll want to follow. Don’t skip out on any steps. Remember to always reapply SPF every 2 hours. Allow your skin at least 2 weeks to adjust to the new regimen. Email me if you have any questions. I cannot wait to see you glow!

Amazon disclaimer

Christine Lindsay is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.