Combating Mask Acne
Wearing masks is a necessary precaution we all must take right now. Your skin, however, may disagree with that sentiment and you might find yourself breaking out in the very area your mask is covering. Why is this and what can you do?
Your mask is creating a hotbed for bacteria. With no fresh air and nowhere for your breath to escape, that bacteria will just sit on top of your skin and go into your pores, causing some gorgeous open and closed comedones (whiteheads and blackheads). Well, they’re gorgeous to me but probably not to you. You may also experience inflamed papules and pustules.
The first thing you can do is ensure you’re using a clean mask every day. Whether that’s a disposable or washable mask, you don’t want to use the same one day after day. Your next step is going to be to examine your current skincare regimen. Are your products promoting your barrier function? Are they stripping your skin of its oil? Are you feeling dry and tight at the end of your workday after wearing masks, or more oily?
I personally have had to change out all of my daily products to support my barrier function, and I’ve removed most active ingredients like retinol to reduce potential irritation. I’m going to share with you a few hero products that you can incorporate into your current regimen of double cleansing and exfoliating.
Barrier Defense Booster $75
Barrier Defense Booster
This has been my savior. It’s an oil booster, so you can use it before or mix it in with your moisturizer to help relieve dryness and sensitivity while reinforcing barrier integrity against future irritation. It features Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel oil to soothe and condition, and Squalene to prevent moisture loss and make the skin supple. And don’t forget everyone’s favorite Tetrahydrocurcuminoids from turmeric to combat free radical damage and stop skin damaging enzymes in their tracks.
AGE-Bright Clearing Serum $65
AGE-Bright Clearing Serum
This daily serum is perfect for when you get off work and wash your face for the night. It kills p. acnes bacteria (the bacteria responsible for the majority of acne) in minutes. White shiitake mushroom and niacinimide work together to promote brighter and more even skin tone. It also hydrates and soothes the skin because it features phytoactives from the Resurrection Plant.
Calm Water Gel $50
Calm Water Gel
This ultra lightweight moisturizer adds water to the skin to prevent dehydration and doesn’t leave an oily shine. It features Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Cactus Pear) stem extract that helps soothe sensitivity and imparts water-binding properties to support healthy moisture balance. Aloe Vera Leaf juice helps relieve irritiation from dryness. Calm Water Gel has been life changing for my skin.
All of these amazing products can be purchased at CG Wax Studio. If you don’t have a reservation but need help, reach out to me and we can do curbside pick-up.
