TDC Health News

Wearing a mask is now part of our daily lives and may be so for the near future. For many people, wearing a mask can cause acne-like breakouts, or irritation, on the skin that is covered. Here are some helpful hints to prevent and treat this annoying problem.

1. Cleanse and moisturize your face daily. Use a mild, fragrance free cleanser and apply a non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) facial moisturizer after washing.
2. If you have dry skin, apply a moisturizer before and after wearing a mask, as a mask can irritate dry sensitive skin.
3. Protect your lips by wearing a lip specific moisturizer or petroleum jelly before placing the mask on. This can be done before bed as well.
4. When possible do not wear makeup before applying a mask. If you decide to wear make up select a brand that states it is "non-comedogenic" or "does not clog pores."
5. When wearing masks, try to avoid using new irritating skin products such as chemical peels, exfoliants or retinoids. The irritation they cause can be worsened by mask wearing.
6. If you are noting irritation, you may need to stop products which you previously could tolerate such as retinoids, salicylic acid or other facial treatments.
7. Use a gentle facial wipe immediately after removing a mask. This can be especially helpful to those people who wear a mask for many hours throughout the day. These wipes can be found at any drugstore. You may want to reapply a moisturizer after cleansing the face but before reapplying your mask.
8. Wash your cloth masks. This is recommended to be done after every use.
9. Continue your previously prescribed treatment plan from your dermatologist if you have acne, rosacea or another dermatologic condition. However, if you find that it is not working or not tolerated while wearing a mask reach out to your dermatologist for their advice.

If despite these practices you continue to have issues please contact Tulsa Dermatology Clinic at 918-749-2261 and we will be happy to have one of our board-certified dermatologists see you!