Dermatologists are our gold standard for treating actinic skin. A really good exfoliating skin rub regiment is what we are needing when we are wearing masks for a long time. Vitamin As and Retin-As are also very important and can help us create a morning and night program for washing our face. I recommend washing the face, putting on Retin-A, and Vitamin C in the morning. The routine might involve a chemical peel to help exfoliate older layers of skin, or a more aggressive skin care regiment. We can recommend products for specific individuals struggling with maskne or any other issues.

 

 

Masks are vital to COVID-19 pandemic control practices. However, we’ve seen increasing skin problems related to mask use, often referred to as “maskne.’’

UCHealth Today spoke to Dr. Whitney High, director of the UCHealth Dermatology Clinic at University of Colorado Hospital on the Anschutz Medical Campus and dermatology professor with the University of Colorado School of Medicine, about how to keep your skin clear during a time when wearing a mask is essential to slowing the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.

“Maskne” might better be called “acne mechanica” by dermatology specialists. This is because it is caused by the “mechanics” of mask-wearing, including increased heat, friction and occlusion/moisture. These mechanics lead to the clogging of pores, making people predisposed to worsened acne, or even acne where the wearer did not have the problem before.

Here are a few things you can do to prevent “maskne:”

Wash your mask often or wear a disposable mask for the appropriate amount of time

If you are using a fabric mask, make sure you are keeping it clean/laundered. Dirt and skin oils can accumulate on the mask and lead to bacterial overgrowth.

Wash your face

After wearing your mask for long periods, it is wise to wash your face using a bland cleanser. This dislodges dirt and oils and prevents blocked pores. Make sure you dry with a clean towel and change towels frequently. Facial cleansers often recommended at the UCHealth Dermatology Clinic include Cetaphil facial cleanser, Cerave hydrating facial cleanser and Vanicream gentle facial cleanser. At many large national retailers, there is a more affordable store-brand, packaged similarly to these major brands.

“Dermatologists are our gold standard for treating actinic skin, said Dr. Rebekah Zaluzec, a plastic and reconstructive surgery expert at UCHealth Cherry Creek Medical Center. 

“A really good exfoliating skin rub regiment is what we are needing when we are wearing masks for a long time. Vitamin As and Retin-As are also very important and can help us create a morning and night program for washing our face. I recommend washing the face, putting on Retin-A, and Vitamin C in the morning. The routine might involve a chemical peel to help exfoliate older layers of skin, or a more aggressive skin care regiment. We can recommend products for specific individuals struggling with maskne or any other issues.”

Use a bland facial moisturizer

There is not any single facial moisturizer that is best to prevent “maskne,” and you may already have a brand you like.

“I recommend using a product that is non-comedogenic (doesn’t cause acne). In general, products with fewer ingredients, and those that are of a thinner consistency can be beneficial. Facial moisturizers often recommended at the dermatology clinic include Cetaphil, Cerave and Vanicream facial moisturizers. Similar to facial cleansers, more-affordable store brands from large national retailers are often very good,’’ High said.

Wear less or even (preferably) no makeup when prolonged mask use is anticipated

The American Academy of Dermatology states that wearing skin makeup under a mask can cause increased clogging of pores and worsens breakouts. Makeup residue will also dirty your mask more quickly.

Consider careful addition of topical anti-acne products

If you are having a breakout and it is not severe enough to justify a visit to the dermatologist, you could consider the careful addition of a skin care product that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, as these are widely utilized for acne. However, because of the occlusion of the mask, these products could prove more irritating. Add these products carefully and sparingly to make sure they improve your condition, and are well-tolerated, without making the problem worse.

Sometimes a breakout related to mask wearing is not simply “maskne.” Other problems that can occur include:

Allergic contact dermatitis to something in a particular mask

Some masks contain formaldehyde or polypropylene, and a few people can be allergic to these chemicals. Typically, allergic reactions are often very sharply circumscribed and limited to the areas that the mask touches the face. If you suspect an allergy, it might be reasonable to change brands and styles of masks (while maintaining appropriate levels of protection) and see if the rash improves. If it does not, it is wise to consult a dermatologist regarding your suspicions.

Rosacea

This is a skin condition often exemplified by flushing/blushing and sometimes an acne-like eruption. People with rosacea tend to have triggers that make their disease worse, such as caffeine, alcohol, sun, etc. The warmth and humidity of mask wearing can be a rosacea trigger for some people. If this seems to be the problem, consultation with a dermatologist is appropriate.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Another chronic skin disease ranges from mild dandruff on the scalp to a flaky rash on the face and can be very itchy. If you have a history of seborrheic dermatitis, it may change or worsen with mask-wearing. Patients with seborrheic dermatitis should consult their dermatologist to manage the flare in their disease.

For anyone experiencing mask-related skin problems, dermatology clinics and providers along the Front Range can be found here.