With the introduction of the requirement to wear face masks, an increase in the number of people suffering from acne resulting from wearing face masks every day was noticed very quickly. Such a phenomenon was called “maskne”, i.e. acne caused by the contact of the mask with the skin.
The microbiome
Human skin, including the face, contains microorganisms that constitute a protective barrier against external factors influencing the proper functioning of the skin. Their balance and communication is crucial for the proper functioning of the skin. Disturbances in their communication cause damage to the hydro-lipid barrier, which may result in the appearance of diseases such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne.
The skin under the protective mask increases its temperature and humidity. A humid environment is ideal for the development of “bad” bacteria, which, thanks to a disturbed microbiome balance, contribute to inflammation and acne lesions. Increased temperature under the mask helps to increase sebum production, which in turn can lead to acne diseases.
Not only acne
Irritation is another problem associated with wearing masks, it is associated with damage to the hydro-lipid barrier. This barrier, also known as the hydro-lipid coat, is a natural mixture of water and lipid substances that acts as an external skin protection. When removing the mask, the skin is rubbed, which leads to its irritation and, consequently, to the appearance of redness, dryness and even inflammation.
Now, when the temperature outside is dropping, it is especially important to pay attention to the moisture that collects under the mask. In addition to disorders that can lead to acne, there may also be irritation caused by the influence of low temperature on the skin.
Few rules
– If you have to wear a mask most of the day – change it every 4 hours,
– Do not let the mask get wet (you can mark the skin with a double layer of gauze, then it will absorb moisture),
– Do not wear a tightly fitting mask to the skin (let the skin “breathe”),
– If possible – avoid make-up under the mask,
– After removing the mask – refresh the skin: wash, tone, dry, apply the appropriate cream,
– Avoid touching the skin of the face (both under and outside the mask).
How to care for the skin after a protective mask?
Acne-prone skin
After removing the protective mask, the face skin should be refreshed. If your skin has a “mask” problem, we recommend Acne Out Gel and Acne Out Toner. The perfect duo of cleansing and toning products for oily skin, combination skin prone to acne. They contain shikimic acid which regulates the secretion of sebum and helps to unblock the sebaceous glands and Quora NoniPRFC – a substance that regulates the skin microbiome. After toning the skin, A-QS Hacker Therapy creams are recommended: A-QS Hacker Day Cream matting and moisturizing and A-QS Hacker Night Cream as night care.
Skin prone to irritation
If your skin is prone to irritation – choose gentle care with the Neuro Cannabis Therapy line for stressed skin with damaged hydro-lipid barrier. Dermocosmetic, ultra-light Neuro Cannabis Foam will not only refresh the skin by removing makeup and impurities, but also regulate your skin microbiome and your mood. The active substance contained in the Neuro Cannabis products – Kannabia SensePLF, which has a proven effect, also in these two directions. Choose Neuro Cannabis Solution as a toning product, and the appropriate cream will be Neuro Cannabis Elixir-Cream with an oil-rich formula that will seal the damaged hydro-lipid coat and soothe your skin. If you are struggling with a vascular problem and redness – we recommend Neuro Sensi Cream, which is S.O.S. in case of irritation.
