Tips

Daily Mask-Wearing: 7 Habits to Change for Seamless Transitions

Minimize makeup, moisturize your lips and hydrate your skin to prevent maskne caused by wearing face masks all day, every day.

Administrator

19 April, 2024

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Wearing a mask regularly can help prevent the spread of Covid-19, but it can also have some negative effects on your skin. The constant rubbing of the mask material against your skin can irritate it, and the build-up of dirt and makeup can lead to breakouts, rashes, and itching.

Here are 7 new habits you should adopt into your daily routine to help your skin “breathe” easier while wearing a mask.

1. Go makeup-free as much as possible

Wearing makeup under a mask is a bit like going to bed with your makeup on. Trapped beneath the mask, foundation and other makeup products can clog your pores and create a breeding ground for blemishes. Go makeup-free as often as possible, or wear only minimal makeup. Instead, focus on moisturizing your skin.

2. Use a gentle cleanser

Wearing a mask regularly means your pores are covered up more often. Cleansing is therefore essential to remove dirt and impurities, allowing your pores to breathe.

Choose a gentle cleanser that is suitable for sensitive skin, and wash your face thoroughly in the morning and evening.

3. Hydrate your skin

Keeping your skin hydrated can help combat skin problems caused by frequent mask-wearing. Drink plenty of water and use a hydrating mist to ensure your skin stays well-moisturized.

4. Use heavier moisturizers

Dry skin is a common problem as the weather turns colder. This is made worse by wearing a face mask all the time. If you find your regular moisturizer isn’t cutting it, switch to a richer formula, or add a few drops of a hydrating oil to your moisturizer.

5. Protect your lips

Like the skin on your face, your lips can become dry and chapped when they’re constantly covered by a mask. Counteract this by applying lip balm more frequently.

6. Choose your mask material carefully

Avoid masks made from synthetic materials like nylon and polyester, which can irritate the skin and cause breakouts. Masks made from natural materials like cotton are more breathable and less likely to cause skin irritation.

7. Wash your mask regularly

If you’re using a cloth mask, make sure to wash it after each use to remove bacteria, oils, and dead skin cells. Use hot water and avoid using fabric softener.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, frequent mask-wearing can cause skin irritation. The friction of the mask material against your skin, coupled with the build-up of dirt and makeup, can lead to breakouts, rashes, and itching.

Here are some habits you can adopt:

Avoid wearing makeup under your mask, as it can clog pores and lead to blemishes. Opt for a fresh, natural look.

Use a gentle cleanser suitable for sensitive skin to keep your pores clear and your skin breathable.

Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using a hydrating mist.

If your skin feels dry, switch to a heavier moisturizer or add a few drops of hydrating oil.

Don’t forget your lips! Apply lip balm frequently to prevent dryness and chapping.

Choose natural, breathable materials like cotton for your mask to minimize skin irritation.

Wash your cloth mask regularly with hot water to remove bacteria and impurities.

Go for a gentle cleanser that is suitable for sensitive skin. This will help remove dirt and impurities without irritating your skin further.

Yes, synthetic materials like nylon and polyester are more likely to irritate your skin and cause breakouts. Opt for natural materials like cotton instead, which are more breathable and gentle on the skin.