The Derma Corner: How to get rid of "maskne", according to a dermatologist
Hi everyone, this is Liz Lanuzo, Project Vanity’s founder and editor. I’m happy to introduce our newest columnist, dermatologist Nikki Paderna! She will be answering some of our burning skincare questions, so if you have one, feel free to email it to liz [at] projectvanity.com so we can take a look at it!
Q: My maskne is out of control! I didn’t have pimples before on my chin and jawline area, but since I started wearing a mask, I’ve started to get these pimples that just won’t seem to go away. What can I do to get rid of these? - Kristina
A: Hi Kristina! That’s a question that’s been frequently asked of me and a big percent of my patients now come in for consult for that reason. What’s being called “maskne” is actually a kind of acne we identify as Acne Mechanica, caused by friction from repetitive rubbing of masks against the skin and obstruction of the pilosebaceous unit, leading to congested pores. The same is the case for wearing certain face shields that have a band over the forehead. The frequent rubbing disrupts the skin barrier, producing irritation and inflammation. Face masks and shields can also trap dirt, oil and sweat on the skin, irritating it further and may even cause flares of eczema and rosacea aside from acne.
In general, the mechanism behind acne formation involves the interaction of multiple factors. There is increased oil production by the sebum glands, comedone formation (blackheads and whiteheads due to congested pores), presence of the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes), and inflammation. Stress, hormones and diet can affect these factors too particularly in increasing the oil production of the glands.
Since face masks are part of the new normal, here’s what you can do skincare-wise and beyond:
Wash your face. Make sure to cleanse your face twice a day with a mild cleanser. And as soon as you get home and take off the mask, it is very important that you remove the sweat, oil and dirt that was trapped on your skin.
Apply a moisturizer after washing your face. Not only will using the right moisturizer reduce skin irritation before wearing a mask but it will also help maintain a healthy skin barrier. Choose a moisturizer too that’s suited to your skin type.
Don’t overload your skin with new skincare. Just because you’re breaking out doesn’t mean your skin needs more. It may even be the culprit behind your new-onset acne. Your skin can easily become irritated when you add more steps and actives to your routine.
Avoid wearing makeup underneath your mask. Makeup worn under masks can further contribute to clogged pores. However, if you’re really adamant about wearing them, then I advise that you at least put on the bare minimum.
Wear the right mask. When it comes to masks, choose something that fits you comfortably, not too tight and not too loose. If you’re using the single-use surgical masks, dispose of them as soon as you’re done and wear a new one the next day. If you choose a reusable, fabric mask, wash it every day. Remember that masks trap dirt, sweat and oil. Even if you cleanse your face properly, reusing a dirty mask will just bring all of them back to your skin.
Consult with a dermatologist. There are some cases of acne mechanica that may be severe enough to warrant an over-the-counter medication or products to treat acne like hydroxy acids. In cases like these, it is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist to advise you of how frequent these medications will be applied/taken.
I hope these steps will of big help to you Kristina and to anyone else who’s been having the same skin issue.
Dr. Nikki Paderna is currently available for online consultations thru the HealthNow app on Google Play for Android devices and on the Apple store for iOS devices, or thru the FB page, Vivestrata Dermatology Clinic.
