Face masks became part of daily life for many people, and with them came “maskne” – breakouts in the areas covered by the mask. Warmth, friction, trapped sweat and breath create a mini greenhouse on your skin where bacteria thrive.
If you have to wear a mask for long hours, fabric and fit matter. Choose a soft, breathable material where possible, and avoid very rough fabrics that rub the same spot repeatedly. Reusable masks should be washed regularly with mild, non-fragranced detergent; a dirty mask sitting on your face all day is like wearing yesterday’s sweaty T-shirt.
Keep your skincare under the mask simple. Heavy, occlusive creams and thick makeup can clog pores in that humid environment. A light, non-comedogenic moisturiser and sunscreen (if you’re outdoors) is usually enough. If you want coverage, consider keeping foundation above the mask line and leaving the covered area bare or with minimal product.
When you remove the mask, gently cleanse your face to clear sweat and oil, especially around the chin and jawline. Avoid attacking fresh breakouts with harsh scrubs or strong acids; that often makes irritation worse.
If maskne persists or becomes painful, a dermatologist can help tailor a routine or prescribe targeted treatment. Most of the time, a few small habit shifts make a noticeable difference.