A Dermatologist's Take On Skin-Care And Face Masks

Donning a facemask is absolutely essential in current times. But do we need to change our skincare with this “new must”? The answer is YES, indeed!

It's not just the health care workers who are suffering from the side-effects of protective equipment, but even the common man struggles daily with the facepiece. So, read on for some expert tips on achieving healthy, problem-free skin in this new normal era.

1. Fit & Fabric Matter

Wear it right; neither too loose, nor too tight. Often readjusting a loose mask may invite finger contamination. However, a very tight fit may cause uncomfortable, red and sore bands on nose and ears. Insist on soft cotton fabrics with the right snug fit.

2. Let’s Shop For Styles & Patterns

Have you ever worn the same slippers for 30 days straight in a month? Hope you remember how annoying the patchy skin looks! Your face is no exception. Change the pattern often to avoid a “mask tan”. This is necessary to avoid persistent friction and sore areas, otherwise, one may later have to deal with nasty, hyperpigmented bands. 

Image Courtesy - Freepik

3. Let’s Learn To Be A “Hygiene Freak”

• Always wear a clean, laundered mask. Doctors are reporting an alarming rise in mask induced acne - “Maskne”.
• Use fragrance-free mild soaps and detergents to wash your mask. Else you may end up with bothersome allergic rashes and irritant eczema.
• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends a 15-minute “Mask Break” every 4 hours (It goes unsaid that social distancing is a pre-requisite).
• Always remove your mask with sanitised hands and avoid touching the inner area. Fold and store your mask in a clean ziplock.
• This year you have more than one humidity concern to worry about. So, change that damp mask frequently. The build-up of bacteria and yeast on the skin underneath a wet mask, may lead to seborrhea, acne and irritating painful cuts on the corners of your mouth. 

Also Read: 10 Skincare Tips By A Dermatologist For Humid Weather

4. Tailor The Regime

• Wash your face thoroughly and frequently, before and after mask use.
• Don’t forget to tone if you want to avoid clogged pores and breakouts.
• Opt for oil-free makeup, preferably, only on exposed areas.
• Do keep a 10-minute gap between product application and wearing a mask. Dab with a tissue so that extra product does not stick to your mask.
• Keep healing creams handy and apply on sore pressure areas after removing your mask. Look for ingredients like ceramides, Hyaluronic acid (HA), squalene and dimethicone.
• Minimise use of retinol, at home peeling agents, hair bleach, and strong astringents. Instead, focus on “Repair & Hydrate”. Avoid heavy-duty creams and stick to light serum-based moisturisers.
• Consult a dermatologist if needed, to help modify your skincare routine.

Lock or unlock, masks are here to stay! So, why not change our skincare game?

About The Author 

Dr Harsimran Kaur

Consultant Dermatologist & Cosmetologist

New Delhi

Reach Out @ harsimran.kaur.688@gmail.com