How to Treat & Prevent Maskne

Maskne: Your Guide to Prevention & Treatment

We’re all familiar with the change in the way we work, live, and enjoy ourselves during Covid-19. Measures like social distancing and protective face masks have become the norm as we all do our part in curtailing the spread.

If you’ve been wearing your protective face mask a lot, chances are you’ve noticed an increase in pimples and acne around your mouth area and face. Known as “maskne,” this symptom of face masks has become a common issue for many of us. The good news is that you don’t have to choose between wearing a mask and having radiant, healthy looking skin. Read through below for our helpful guide to keeping maskne at bay. 

{ "@context": "https://schema.org/", "@type": "WebPage", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": ["speakable-content"] }, "url": "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/how-to-treat-and-stop-maskne" } document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function (event) { const element = document.getElementsByClassName('oap_hairdiagStart_divbtn'); if (element.length > 0) { let urlParams = new URLSearchParams(window.location.search); if (urlParams != "" || urlParams != null) { var keyValuepairs = urlParams.toString().split('&'); var qrUtmfound = 0; keyValuepairs.forEach(function (item, index) { if (item === "utm_source=pos" || item === "utm_medium=qrcode") { qrUtmfound++; } }); if (qrUtmfound == 2) { let relocHref = document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").getAttribute("href"); let relocUpdatedurl = relocHref + window.location.search; document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").setAttribute("href", relocUpdatedurl); } } } });

What Causes Maskne?

{ "@context": "https://schema.org/", "@type": "WebPage", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": ["speakable-content"] }, "url": "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/how-to-treat-and-stop-maskne" }

The scientific term for maskne is ‘acne mechanica’. This skin reaction is caused by the prolonged use of facial coverings like masks, which tend to trap in warm air, oil and sweat. Long periods of wear also create a humid environment that is ripe for bacterial growth. These factors, combined with the rubbing of the mask on skin causes inflammation, redness and breakouts.

We’ve laid out some basic steps you can apply to your morning and evenings skincare routines to prevent or reduce maskne, while continuing to stay safe.

{ "@context": "https://schema.org/", "@type": "WebPage", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": ["speakable-content"] }, "url": "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/how-to-treat-and-stop-maskne" } document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function (event) { const element = document.getElementsByClassName('oap_hairdiagStart_divbtn'); if (element.length > 0) { let urlParams = new URLSearchParams(window.location.search); if (urlParams != "" || urlParams != null) { var keyValuepairs = urlParams.toString().split('&'); var qrUtmfound = 0; keyValuepairs.forEach(function (item, index) { if (item === "utm_source=pos" || item === "utm_medium=qrcode") { qrUtmfound++; } }); if (qrUtmfound == 2) { let relocHref = document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").getAttribute("href"); let relocUpdatedurl = relocHref + window.location.search; document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").setAttribute("href", relocUpdatedurl); } } } });

1. Choose Your Protective Face Mask Wisely

From surgical and fabric facemasks, to those you make yourself – there are a plethora of options available to us. Each type can impact our skin differently, and choosing the right one for your skin type and need is important. 

When deciding what type of protective face mask is best, your first consideration should always be safety. Check the guidelines in your country or state to confirm what form and thickness is advised. After that, figure out how different materials make you feel and opt for the type that lets you breath comfortably. Alongside this, make sure your mask fits well. A snug fitting mask means less friction and need to touch your face, which decreases the transmission of bacteria from your hands.

In general, dermatologists recommend masks which are made from layers of light and breathable fabrics such as 100% cotton or silk. These fabrics are gentle on skin and go far to minimise friction and irritation. 

Finally, it’s key that you wash your mask daily in order to remove nasties like oil and bacteria. Opt for fragrance-free detergents and fabric softeners to minimise skin irritation. 

{ "@context": "https://schema.org/", "@type": "WebPage", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": ["speakable-content"] }, "url": "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/how-to-treat-and-stop-maskne" } document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function (event) { const element = document.getElementsByClassName('oap_hairdiagStart_divbtn'); if (element.length > 0) { let urlParams = new URLSearchParams(window.location.search); if (urlParams != "" || urlParams != null) { var keyValuepairs = urlParams.toString().split('&'); var qrUtmfound = 0; keyValuepairs.forEach(function (item, index) { if (item === "utm_source=pos" || item === "utm_medium=qrcode") { qrUtmfound++; } }); if (qrUtmfound == 2) { let relocHref = document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").getAttribute("href"); let relocUpdatedurl = relocHref + window.location.search; document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").setAttribute("href", relocUpdatedurl); } } } });

2. Keep Your Skincare Routine Simple

To stave off maskne, ensure that your skincare routine is optimised for your specific skin type. A well-rounded morning and evening routine will target your specific concerns and make sure that your skin can defend itself against the effects of mask-wearing. 

Be wary of potent active ingredients like retinol and acids. This might not be the time to start something new. If you are using a product that contains a particularly strong ingredient, you might want to try including it in your evening routine only. 

As general rule, gentle hydrating products are your best friends when wearing masks. Mild cleansers and moisturisers, as well as fragrance-free make-up removers are all great at caring for mask-wearing skin. Products like the Revitalift Filler Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Makeup Remover effectively remove dirt and makeup without drying skin out. If you find that wearing a mask makes you sweat more, try cleaning your face with a gentle makeup wipe.

{ "@context": "https://schema.org/", "@type": "WebPage", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": ["speakable-content"] }, "url": "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/how-to-treat-and-stop-maskne" } document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function (event) { const element = document.getElementsByClassName('oap_hairdiagStart_divbtn'); if (element.length > 0) { let urlParams = new URLSearchParams(window.location.search); if (urlParams != "" || urlParams != null) { var keyValuepairs = urlParams.toString().split('&'); var qrUtmfound = 0; keyValuepairs.forEach(function (item, index) { if (item === "utm_source=pos" || item === "utm_medium=qrcode") { qrUtmfound++; } }); if (qrUtmfound == 2) { let relocHref = document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").getAttribute("href"); let relocUpdatedurl = relocHref + window.location.search; document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").setAttribute("href", relocUpdatedurl); } } } });

3. Skip Makeup

When applying foundation and concealer, consider skipping the area covered by your mask. Makeup can clog pores (not to mention leave behind residue on your mask’s fabric). If you’re not so keen on partial application, you can swap out traditional foundation for a light tinted moisturiser. Moisturisers help to create a barrier between your skin and the mask, which can reduce friction and irritation. Light, water-based foundations like our True Match Serum combine the best of skin care and makeup, leaving you with a dewy moisturised glow. 

{ "@context": "https://schema.org/", "@type": "WebPage", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": ["speakable-content"] }, "url": "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/how-to-treat-and-stop-maskne" } document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function (event) { const element = document.getElementsByClassName('oap_hairdiagStart_divbtn'); if (element.length > 0) { let urlParams = new URLSearchParams(window.location.search); if (urlParams != "" || urlParams != null) { var keyValuepairs = urlParams.toString().split('&'); var qrUtmfound = 0; keyValuepairs.forEach(function (item, index) { if (item === "utm_source=pos" || item === "utm_medium=qrcode") { qrUtmfound++; } }); if (qrUtmfound == 2) { let relocHref = document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").getAttribute("href"); let relocUpdatedurl = relocHref + window.location.search; document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").setAttribute("href", relocUpdatedurl); } } } });

How to Treat Maskne

If you’re mid-maskne breakout, don’t stress. Classic acne spot treatments work to recover skin without causing further irritation. Keep in mind that these treatments often leave skin drier, which may in turn cause an overproduction of oil. Make sure to follow any treatments with a moisturiser to balance your skin.

Creating a good routine for preventing and treating maskne is an essential aspect of our “new normal”. Following the above tips will allow you to keep your skin looking at its best, while still protecting yourself and others.

For more advice on curating an effective skincare routine, discover Our Foolproof Skincare Routine for All Skin Types from our experts.

{ "@context": "https://schema.org/", "@type": "WebPage", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": ["speakable-content"] }, "url": "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/how-to-treat-and-stop-maskne" } document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function (event) { const element = document.getElementsByClassName('oap_hairdiagStart_divbtn'); if (element.length > 0) { let urlParams = new URLSearchParams(window.location.search); if (urlParams != "" || urlParams != null) { var keyValuepairs = urlParams.toString().split('&'); var qrUtmfound = 0; keyValuepairs.forEach(function (item, index) { if (item === "utm_source=pos" || item === "utm_medium=qrcode") { qrUtmfound++; } }); if (qrUtmfound == 2) { let relocHref = document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").getAttribute("href"); let relocUpdatedurl = relocHref + window.location.search; document.getElementById("hair_color_start_btn").setAttribute("href", relocUpdatedurl); } } } }); { "@context": "http://schema.org", "@type": "Thing", "subjectOf": { "@type": "ItemList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type":"ListItem", "position": 1, "url" : "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/skin-care-hub", "item":{ "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type":"WebPage" }, "headline":"Skin Care Hub", "image":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/apac/au/articles/local-articles/skin-care-hub/skin-care-hub-banner-v2.jpg?rev=4b51c317b74141c390a2b5791b02d3da", "height":900, "width":2000 }, "datePublished": "2020-12-03T00:12:00+00:00", "dateModified": "2024-04-28T12:50:40+00:00", "author": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "L'Oréal Paris" }, "publisher":{ "@type":"Organization", "name":"L'Oréal Paris", "logo":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/shared/baseline/navigationext/loreal-paris-black-logo.svg?rev=a43411e171da48ef888a91b0e2ef7b7c", "width":189, "height":60 } }}, "description":"<p style="font-size:22px;"><strong>Care about your skincare? So do we.</strong></p><br /> At L’Oréal Paris we create advanced, effective <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/skin-care"><span style="color: #E32847;">skincare</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"> – for all skin types and concerns. From our tolerance-testing to our independent clinical trials, you can be safe in the knowledge we are committed to the safest skincare that really works.<br /> <br /> Our latest obsession: glowing, dewy, youthful skin. The key to your best skin yet? A dedicated skincare routine carefully tailored to your skin type and concerns. With skincare products for <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/face-care/anti-ageing">anti-ageing</a></span><span style="color: #000000;">, brightening, and more, the L’Oréal Paris range is designed to replump and reinvigorate any complexion at any age. With products designed to suit every skin type, whether your skin is <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/face-care/normal-skin"><span style="color: #E32847;">normal</a></span><span style="color: #000000;">, oily, <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/face-care/dry-skin"><span style="color: #E32847;">dry</a></span><span style="color: #000000;">, <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/face-care/sensitive-skin"><span style="color: #E32847;">sensitive</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"> or combination, build your best skincare routine with L’Oréal Paris.<br /> <br /> Not sure which skin type you have? Our experts have made it easy with our foolproof skincare routine . Formulated with active ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and retinol, our skin <a href=" https://www.lorealparis.com.au/skin-care/face-care"><span style="color: #E32847;">face care</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"> products deliver effective results. Learn more about the <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/retinol"><span style="color: #E32847;">benefits of hyaluronic acid</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"> and <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/hyaluronic-acid"><span style="color: #E32847;">how retinol targets signs of ageing</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"> from our experts. Whether you are building the ultimate anti-ageing skincare routine, mastering hydration basics, or finding the perfect facial serum, our <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/beauty-magazine/skin-care"><span style="color: #E32847;">Beauty Magazine</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"> has the answers for you. Discover our expert tips and tricks, and our range of day moisturisers, night creams, cleansers, facial serums, face masks, and more." } , { "@type":"ListItem", "position": 2, "url" : "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/hyaluronic-acid-skin-benefits", "item":{ "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type":"WebPage" }, "headline":"Hyaluronic Acid Skin Benefits", "image":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/apac/au/articles/skin-care/contextualized/a-serum-to-suit-my-skin-hero.jpg?rev=76513282ec344e0dbf39335a0e5b779e", "height":900, "width":2000 }, "datePublished": "2020-06-22T08:00:00+00:00", "dateModified": "2023-12-05T06:43:21+00:00", "author": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "L'Oréal Paris" }, "publisher":{ "@type":"Organization", "name":"L'Oréal Paris", "logo":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/shared/baseline/navigationext/loreal-paris-black-logo.svg?rev=a43411e171da48ef888a91b0e2ef7b7c", "width":189, "height":60 } }}, "description":"<p>Uncover the secret behind youthful skin and discover how to maintain fresh and youthful skin at any age. We are all born with naturally radiant, elastic and soft-textured skin, however, these features fade with age due to water loss in our skin cells. To maintain this fresh and youthful plumpness, we must understand that the skin component controlling these features is<a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/hyaluronic-acid"> Hyaluronic Acid</a>.</p>" } , { "@type":"ListItem", "position": 3, "url" : "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/serum-guide-which-one-will-work-for-you", "item":{ "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type":"WebPage" }, "headline":"Serum Guide: Which One Will Work For You", "image":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/apac/au/articles/skin-care/still-life/serum-guide-which-will-work-for-you-hero.jpg?rev=27619b090ae04f5d85ec3046d01bf1e9", "height":900, "width":2000 }, "datePublished": "2020-04-24T17:23:00+00:00", "dateModified": "2024-04-10T00:23:10+00:00", "author": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "L'Oréal Paris" }, "publisher":{ "@type":"Organization", "name":"L'Oréal Paris", "logo":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/shared/baseline/navigationext/loreal-paris-black-logo.svg?rev=a43411e171da48ef888a91b0e2ef7b7c", "width":189, "height":60 } }}, "description":"Serums have quickly gained popularity in the skincare world as they are lightweight while delivering active ingredients deep into the skin. But which one should you go for ? See our guide below for some tips." } , { "@type":"ListItem", "position": 4, "url" : "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/what-is-retinol", "item":{ "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type":"WebPage" }, "headline":"What is Retinol", "image":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/apac/au/articles/our-ingredients/banners_retinol_5.jpg?rev=0a133fb67e804181acdad7b1fd038762", "height":900, "width":2000 }, "datePublished": "2020-11-19T23:36:00+00:00", "dateModified": "2024-12-02T07:46:19+00:00", "author": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "L'Oréal Paris" }, "publisher":{ "@type":"Organization", "name":"L'Oréal Paris", "logo":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/shared/baseline/navigationext/loreal-paris-black-logo.svg?rev=a43411e171da48ef888a91b0e2ef7b7c", "width":189, "height":60 } }}, "description":"Let’s face it, wrinkles and fine lines are inevitable. Signs of ageing are simply a part of getting older. Have you started to notice some sneaky lines pop up? Wondering what you can do about it? Look towards <u><a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/5-anti-ageing-all-star-ingredients" target=_self>powerful anti-ageing ingredients</a></u> with proven results. <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/face-care/proretinol" target=_self>Retinol</a> (and retinoids in general) have been touted as a powerful and effective anti-ageing ingredient in recent years – and we’ll tell you why that hype is deserved. So what are retinols and retinoids, and how can they be used to improve the appearance of your skin? Read on to get the lowdown on what retinol and other retinoids do, and how you can incorporate these effective <u><a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/face-care/anti-ageing" target=_self>anti-ageing ingredients</a></u> into your <u><a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/skin-care" target=_self>skin care routine</a></u>." } , { "@type":"ListItem", "position": 5, "url" : "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/skin-care-routine-all-skin-types", "item":{ "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type":"WebPage" }, "headline":"Skin Care Routine All Skin Types", "image":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/apac/au/articles/skin-care/humanity/what-is-your-phototype-article.jpg?rev=f4f5381bc39a44bbb4cfc87f31f11b08", "height":900, "width":2000 }, "datePublished": "2020-11-19T23:36:00+00:00", "dateModified": "2024-12-02T07:45:52+00:00", "author": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "L'Oréal Paris" }, "publisher":{ "@type":"Organization", "name":"L'Oréal Paris", "logo":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/shared/baseline/navigationext/loreal-paris-black-logo.svg?rev=a43411e171da48ef888a91b0e2ef7b7c", "width":189, "height":60 } }}, "description":"Curating an effective and streamlined <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/skin-care" target=_blank>skincare</a> routine, that you are realistically going to use, can be challenging. With so many different products claiming to be miracle workers it is hard to know which deserve a coveted spot in your <a href="https://www.lorealparis.com.au/skin-care/face-care"><span style="color: red;">daily face care</a></span><span style="color: #000000;"> routine. When it comes down to it, often essential face products are all you need for an effective skin care routine. Keeping it simple with a streamlined skin care routine of effective products means you’re more likely to actually be able to follow through morning and evening and stick to the ultimate rule of skincare – never sleep in makeup. Keep reading for an easy skin care routine that works for everyone, along with product recommendations from L’Oréal Paris that are suitable for all skin types." } , { "@type":"ListItem", "position": 6, "url" : "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/the-secrets-of-anti-aging-serum", "item":{ "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage":{ "@type":"WebPage" }, "headline":"The Secrets Of Anti-Aging Serum", "image":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/apac/au/articles/skin-care/humanity/what-is-global-anti-aging-hero.jpg?rev=7f5ceb44f09d482da133263ae63f9fa7", "height":900, "width":2000 }, "datePublished": "2020-04-24T09:35:00+00:00", "dateModified": "2023-04-06T03:19:27+00:00", "author": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "L'Oréal Paris" }, "publisher":{ "@type":"Organization", "name":"L'Oréal Paris", "logo":{ "@type":"ImageObject", "url":"https://www.lorealparis.com.au/-/media/project/loreal/brand-sites/oap/shared/baseline/navigationext/loreal-paris-black-logo.svg?rev=a43411e171da48ef888a91b0e2ef7b7c", "width":189, "height":60 } }}, "description":"The anti-aging serum is an essential part of our beauty regime, it is packed with active ingredients and wonderfully effective. What are the secrets of the serum ?" } ] } } { "@context": "http://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type":"ListItem", "position": 1, "item": { "@id": "/", "name": "Home" } } , { "@type":"ListItem", "position": 2, "item": { "@id": "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/beauty-magazine", "name": "Beauty Magazine" } } , { "@type":"ListItem", "position": 3, "item": { "@id": "https://www.lorealparis.com.au/how-to-treat-and-stop-maskne", "name": "how to treat and stop maskne" } } ] }