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treating mask rash and irritiation

Wearing a mask: treating mask rash and skin irritation

Now compulsory on public transport, in shops, supermarkets and hairdressers, face masks have quickly become an essential part of our lives. But if you've found that wearing a mask has had a negative impact on your skin, you aren't alone. Many women have experienced rashes, blemishes and even mask-induced acne (or maskne as it's being called) during the pandemic - especially if they work in an occupation where masks have to be worn for long periods of time such as in a hospital. So what causes Maskne and mask rash and what skincare routine is best for treating and preventing it?

What causes mask rash and how can it be prevented?

If you work in an occupation where masks and shields have to be worn for long periods of time, you may find that it rubs and creates friction throughout the day. This can leave the skin feeling sore, dry and irritated, especially if you have sensitive and eczema-prone skin that reacts easily. But, by adding skincare that targets skin sensitivity to your routine, you can help to restore comfort and hydration.

The best routine to use for mask rash

La Roche-Posay's Toleriane range helps to comfort skin sensitivity day after day so is ideal for soothing mask-induced irritation. Try cleansing with Toleriane Dermo Cleanser - a wipe-off milk that gently removes makeup and impurities - before applying a thin layer of the Toleriane Ultra Cream for Sensitive Skin each morning. In the evening, follow your cleanser with Toleriane Ultra Overnight Care and Toleriane Ultra Eye Contour to hydrate and soothe dryness.

What causes Maskne and how can it be prevented?

'Maskne' is a term coined to describe mask-induced acne. This happens when the area beneath a mask becomes very warm and moist throughout the day, creating a build-up of bacteria, sweat and bacteria - the perfect environment for blemishes to develop. If you are experiencing more imperfections and want to prevent Maskne, you may need to include exfoliating and pore-clearing products, such as those in the Effaclar range, to your routine.

The best routine to use for Maskne

Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel gently lifts dirt and grime away from the skin without disrupting the skin’s delicate baa so is an effective way of targeting persistent imperfections and preventing Maskne. After cleansing the skin, follow with Effaclar Clarifying Lotion to help eliminate any remaining excess oil, unblock pores and visibly reduce their size. Finally, apply a thin layer of Effaclar Duo+ - an anti-blemish moisturiser that corrects and hydrates the skin, leaving it clearer in just four weeks.

Additional tips for caring for your skin when wearing a mask

If you work in a job where you’re required to wear a mask for long periods of time, it’s even more important that you take extra measures to care for your skin. Here we share a few of our dermatologist-approved tips and tricks.

  1. There’s really no need to wear a full face of makeup if you have a mask on all day, and it may also lead to breakouts and blemishes too. Try to go makeup free when you know you’ll have your mask on for long periods of time, or wear a minimal amount if you don’t want to forgo it completely.
  2. It’s important to wash a reusable face mask straight after use and not to wear the same one on consecutive days. If you’re using a disposable mask, make sure it’s removed and thrown away immediately after use and never be tempted to use the same mask again.
  3. As our recommended skincare routines show, skincare is even more important when you’re wearing a mask. Keep your regime simple but hydrating with a soothing cleanser, serum, and moisturiser. Try not to use anything too harsh that may impair your skin’s natural protective barrier.
  4. Finally, don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the areas of your face that are left exposed. This will help to prevent premature ageing and skin damage, especially around the eyes.
Discover La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Range Discover La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Range

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