Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, masks have become an integral part of our lives. Stepping out of home without wearing one is a strict no-no as it is one of the most effective ways to prevent getting infected by the Coronavirus. However, there is a downside to wearing masks, especially for long hours – it can cause immense damage to your skin.

Skin irritation

Wearing a face mask causes oils, dirt, and sweat to accumulate on the skin, which can lead to redness, rashes, and irritation as the fabric damages the skin’s protective barrier. Here is how to prevent it:

• Choose a mask made of cotton and natural filters. Steer clear of synthetic fabrics in order to allow better circulation.
• Wash your skin with the appropriate face wash for your skin type and moisturize it 30 minutes before wearing the mask.
• Ideally, it is best not to put on makeup under the mask, so pores don’t get clogged.
• A 15-minute break every 4 hours of wearing the mask is essential so your skin can breathe.
• Make sure you wash the mask after each use to clean and disinfect it from the dirt and grime stuck to it.

Maskne

As mentioned, sweat, skin oils, etc. getting trapped on the skin surface while wearing masks, can cause irritation. But do you know that it also causes “maskne” – acne caused due to masks? If you stay in a place with warm, humid weather during the summer, sweat, sebum, and moisture from breathing under the mask can clog pores. In winter, the mask will rub against dry skin, so hair follicles break open and release acne-causing bacteria into the skin. Here are a few tips to prevent it:

• Wash your face twice a day – before wearing the mask and after taking it off.  Use a gentle cleanser to remove impurities from skin.
• As stated above, avoid wearing makeup underneath. If that isn’t possible, use makeup minimally, so the skin can breathe.
• Use serums and face mists to keep skin nourished and hydrated.
• To combat acne and pimples, opt for spot treatments creams that contain salicyclic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
• While washing the mask after every use is necessary, make sure it is washed in warm water.
• If you wear disposable masks, replace as often as you can, to prevent accumulation of oil and sweat, and allow it to air out between uses.

Dry and chapped lips

 Wearing masks continuously can cause lips to become overly dry and chapped, with lots of peeling and flaking. Use a lip balm to keep those puckers moisturized, even if they are hidden underneath.

Sunburn and uneven tan marks 

If you have to be outdoors during the day, then you have to wear a mask. Unfortunately, it can cause sunburn in areas that are not covered by the mask. Never step out without putting on sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, so the skin doesn’t get sunburned or tanned in patches. Your skin is also protected from the harsh effects of UV rays.

Taking good care of your skin is a must, so you must not neglect problems like acne, wrinkles, sagging skin, and so on. A healthy boost of collagen in your diet could work wonders for the skin! Why not give it a try from our collection of Marine Collagen Crushes? You will certainly see visible results in just a few weeks!