How to avoid pimples and irritation with face masks
In some places, shelter placement restrictions may be relaxed, but the CDC still recommends wearing a protective shield when leaving home to contain the spread of COVID-19. Unfortunately, as many medical professionals and leading experts already know, wearing masks can have devastating effects on the skin. Whether you sew a mask yourself, buy it online, or use a headscarf and hair tie, wearing a mask can have unpleasant side effects: friction, irritation, redness, and in some cases even bruises or breakages. We have collected a few tips for skin care with the protective mask.
Choose a cotton face mask
If you are not at the forefront of healthcare, the CDC recommends wearing textile facials (except N95 and surgical masks for those who really need them). Facial masks made of densely woven cotton instead of synthetic fabric are soft, breathable and easier to lose on the skin, causing rashes and irritation. Option: Look for a mask with an inner pocket so that you can put an additional filter (e.g. coffee filter) inside for extra protection.
Wash your face (and mask) often
A properly selected face mask should come into direct contact with the skin so that sweat, dirt and oil can accumulate. It is therefore important to wash the face with a gentle cleanser with a pH balance before and after applying the mask. If you use a mask made of homemade fabric, it should be washed regularly as it can absorb natural skin oils. (Fabric softeners and aromatic detergents can be irritating, so they should be avoided when washing).
Protect the skin from friction
If the mask rubs the skin, use an ointment or ointment to protect sensitive areas from rubbing and friction. A normal old Vaseline or Aquaphore will do (we also love Papaya ointment from Lucas), but if you want to renew yourself, choose an occlusal balm with healing ingredients for the skin, such as Voyage Voyage Pharmacist. And for those (heroes) who should wear N95 masks, keep the hydrocolloid bandages on hand. They protect cuts and abrasions from tight-fitting N95 masks and support wound healing.
If you get out, skip the makeup
Facial masks create a warm, moist environment for your skin, which can interfere with the production of sebaceous glands and lead to clogged pores and breakthroughs. If you notice pimples around your nose, mouth and chin, try to minimize makeup worn under the mask - especially the foundation and masking pencil. Everything above the mask is, of course, a fair game.
Flash treatment with TLC
When a whitehead appears, you may be tempted to pull out a large gun, but maintaining a healthy skin barrier is especially important at this time. Skip the harsh pimple control procedures and stop at the soothing ingredients to reduce redness and irritation. Salicylic acid is a good choice because of its ability to penetrate into clogged pores and reduce inflammation. Protect active pimples under an acne mask - no one will see them anyway!
