TIPS FOR MANAGING MASCNE

‘Mascne’, you may have heard it first at the height of the pandemic…but it’s also likely you’re still familiar with it esp. for those who are healthcare workers like myself. 

But it’s actually now a named condition with it’s claim to fame describing the subset of acne mechanica from mask-wearing efforts. 

This form of acne typically presents in a distinguished pattern that forms an ‘O’ shape around the mouth and nose where friction is highest between the face and mask. Makes sense, right?

But why the acne? Mask use creates an occlusive microenvironment that allows microbiome dysbiosis (dysbiosis meaning that it disrupts the diversity between the ‘good’ + ‘bad’ bacteria that live on the skin’s surface—basically, causing inflammation), which is linked to various dermatological conditions. Other factors adding to the disruption of balance the moisture level inside the mask (*vom*), how breathable the mask is, increased skin temperatures causing sweat/heat-related dermatoses, length of use, and hygiene maintenance.

The ideal mask fabric: silk, cotton, lyocell (vs. polyester / nylon masks like they give us in the hospital every day… while these feel more lightweight & breathable, they’ve been shown to cause more irritation)

Ideal mask design to reduce breakouts would be to opt for one that has a smooth surface (stay away from textured/designs involving the actual fabric), with a shape that follows the contour of the nose & jawline without the metallic nose bridge, and adjustable ear loops – all of these features have been proven in clinical studies to minimize the textile-skin friction most – theoretically reducing acne.

Wearing a mask for prolonged periods of time and breathing into the mask, humidity, bacteria, and sweat accumulate making it easy grounds for clogged pores and breakouts to thrive. 

 All of this irritation combined with the friction that comes with mask use results in inflammation and can cause pretty much anyone to experience at least mild case of acne here and there.

Some key points to keep in mind when it comes to preventing ‘mascne’ easy  these:

1. Try to wash your face as soon as you’re able to remove your mask and/or take mask breaks in a safe area when possible to give your skin a break.
2. Avoid wearing makeup underneath, esp a heavy / full coverage look.
3. Don’t attempt to rid your acne by using an overkill of products – this can cause irritation and won’t help your cause as much as you’d think! A simple approach will be most effective.
4. Avoid physical exfoliation! If you already have a routine skin care regimen that works for you (until mascne came along), try adding a chemical exfoliant 1-2xs weekly instead to prevent clogged pores. 
5. Wash your mask often, in hot water to disinfect! Another way to eliminate microbes is by ironing your mask 
6. Try to minimize the amount of times you set your mask down / reduce contact with unclean surfaces, instead try placing it in a clean pocket or leaving the mask around one of your ears hanging.
7. Don’t skip out on applying  moisturizer! Doing this AM + PM will provide the barrier to protect (aim for ingredients like Ceramides, Niacinamide, or Hyaluronic Acid that can hydrate and soothe your skin throughout the day!
8. While fragrances have quite the bad rap in the beauty world as of recently, avoiding products with fragrances will minimize your chances of irritation while mask-wearing.