For the last couple of years, face masks have become a common accessory many people wear. While some of us only put one on when we go out to shop, some of us have to wear one for prolonged periods of time for work. Nurses, people in the restaurant businesses, and anyone who works with the public are subjected to having a mask on for hours at a time.
That being said, while the masks help keep germs from spreading, they can irritate our skin, flare acne, and clog our pores. We have a few simple tips to help keep the skin behind the mask healthy!
Choosing The Right Masks
This may sound insane, but when you’re trying to choose a reusable mask, think of it as if you were shopping for lingerie!
- Skin-friendly fabrics
- Shapes that fit your face well
- Styles that match your personality
The material the masks are made out of have a big impact on our skin. Not only does it have an impact on how well it protects you, but it also affects how our skin will respond or react to being undercover. Avoid synthetic materials like rayon, nylon, and polyester since they are more likely to irritate our skin and cause breakouts.
Tightly woven, natural fibers are the best options because they provide protection, comfort, and are better for our skin health. Cotton, bamboo, and silk are all good options to consider. Oh, and don’t forget to regularly wash your masks as they will get dirty and collect oil from our skin. Not to mention, the bacteria from our nose and mouth being breathed into them.
Clean Your Skin
Cleansing is an essential step for healthy skin regardless if you’re wearing a mask. Before you put your mask on it’s good to deeply cleanse your face to prevent oil and dirt from getting trapped. You’ll want to choose a cleanser that removes the surface impurities without stripping, irritating, or drying out your skin.
Building Barriers
The outermost layer of our skin is our skin barrier. It is the first and best line of defense against things like bacteria, dirt, and irritation. It’s essential to keep our barrier strong and healthy so the skin behind the mask remains radiant and healthy.
Hydrating & SPF
The best way to prevent skin irritation is to make sure you’re properly hydrating. A light moisturizer will create an effective and comfortable protective barrier. It’s best to avoid heavy moisturizers because they can clog your skin, leading to breakouts. SPF will provide protection!
Take A Makeup Break
Wearing a mask and makeup at the same time spells trouble. The masks act as an occlusive barrier which traps the makeup leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts. On the days you know you’re going to wear a mask for extended periods of time, play it safe and leave the makeup off.
Throughout the day, take your mask off as often as you can. Remember, only remove the mask when it is safe to do so. Once your mask can be removed for the day, use a cleanser ASAP and assess your skin’s condition. When you notice which ways wearing a mask affects you and your skin, you can successfully change up your nightly skin routine and make necessary improvements.
