Are Masks giving you Acne?

Since the month of March after Covid19 was declared as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization WHO the group leading from the front as well as experts in the field began to acknowledge the use of masks as a first line of defence against the virusWith the pandemic ensued lockdown a number of dos and donts were facilitated It is likely that the use of masks will remain a constant part of our lives in the near future wearing a mask at work while running errands or just walking around to keep you safe Since masks persistently rub against your skin you may experience breakouts lets understand how to handle these breakouts betterTime spent wearing reusable masks may result in a rash or an acne breakout now cited as Maskne Using face masks may cause skin irritation and breakouts for many reasons type of fabric and tightness over the face are a few examples the material may cause excessive friction to the skin Many are sensitive to fabrics and when paired with makeup dirt and sweat it is a recipe for acne Irritation caused by wearing masks is likely to be a result of contact dermatitis an allergic reaction to cloth materials the bacteria formed from not cleaning the mask well enough or reusage of disposable masks The use of a mask may lead to abrasions on the bridge of your nose chin cheeks or also behind the earsHere are a few tips shared by Dr Kiran Godse consultant dermatologist in Hiranandani Hospital Vashi to prevent or treat breakouts while safely using masks It includesMASK HYGIENE First and foremost mask cleanliness must be the topmost priority it should be washed if reusable or be swapped for a new one after every useIf you experience skin irritation use antiseptic soap with warm water to clean your mask Rinse it thoroughly and ensure it is completely dry before use you may choose to dry steam your mask in the washing machineSKINCARE Makeup may clog your pores and wearing makeup under a mask could increase the acne or breakouts take a break from using any cosmetics for a while or at least till you get it treatedCleanse your skin regularly by washing your face every morning and in the night with a mild facewash that will help unclog pores it is best to then use an oilfree moisturiser in place of waterbased moisturiser afterwardsDo not squeeze or break your pimples this will further lead to inflammation and may also infect the areaExfoliation is also important as it helps the skin cells turnover Salicylic or Glycolic Acids present in exfoliates will help prevent acne These are also available in the form of serumsAvoid using products with Petrolatum an ingredient used in cream and ointments petroleum jellyBefore using and after removing your face mask cleanse and then moisturize your faceCHOOSE THE RIGHT FABRICKnow your skin type The last problem youd want to deal with is an itchy skin and face Fabric sensitivity varies from person to person and different fabrics come with different textures Look for a soft and breathable material that is able to absorb moistureDo not let go of the basic hygiene practices washing your hands thoroughly before going before wearing your mask out as well as immediately after returning home If issues persist and there is an infection scare you must consult your doctor immediatelyRemember we are living in a time where safety and precaution are paramount in defeating an unforeseeable adversaryCatch up on all the latest Crime National International and Hatke news here Also download the new midday Android and iOS apps to get latest updates MidDay is now on Telegram Click here to join our channel middayinfomedialtd and stay updated with the latest newsThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever