Face masks have become an integral part of our lives. And when you wear a face mask for so long, build-up of bacteria, oils, and dead cells is a given. These pollutants clog your pores and lead to breakouts, pustules, whiteheads, and bumps in the area.

These breakouts aren't just sporadic. Or sudden. Also referred to as maskne, these skin-related issues are a result of the cloth mask we've been wearing constantly. So we've put together three tips that can counteract these concerns safely. Read on! 

 

 

Wash your face thoroughly

Wash your face thoroughly

You must wash your face with a salicylic acid-based cleanser like the Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash. Specially formulated to tackle acne, this formula unclogs the pores and reinstates the brightness of your face while preserving the protective barrier of your skin. Let it sit on your face for thirty seconds before washing it off. If your skin is oily, you can wash your face before and after wearing the mask. Top it off with an oil-free moisturiser infused with ceramides to repel any dryness.

 

Don't wear heavy makeup under the mask

Don't wear heavy makeup under the mask

This is a sure-fire recipe for disaster. Especially if you're layering your face with a heavy foundation. Remember that a moist, sweaty environment, coupled with cakey formulas, is your one-way ticket to breakouts. Avoid wearing makeup under your mask. And if you are, try out a lightweight formula infused with the benefits of skincare like the Lakmé Perfecting Liquid Foundation. Enriched with Vitamin E to moisturise and soothe the skin, this foundation is lightweight, and blends into the skin seamlessly. 

 

Get a breathable mask

Get a breathable mask

Choose a cotton-based mask. Avoid ones with rough fibres as these can irritate your skin. Cotton is soft on the skin, and since it's breathable, it won't create much humidity. Hence, lesser chances of your skin breaking out. And, of course, wash your mask frequently with a scent-free and dye-free detergent. Dyes and scents can cling onto the fabric, and irritate your skin too.