Masks causing eczema and acne to flare up, experts say
A RISING number of people are suffering from flare ups in acne, eczema and dermatitis as a result of face masks for an extended period, dermatologists say.
The risk is increased if the user is wearing heavy make-up or foundation because it leads to blockages in the skin. Those with existing skin conditions are also more likely to suffer as a result of the accumulation of sweat combined with friction and pressure.
Dr Mona Gohara, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine, said: “There is certainly an increase of acne as a result of mask-wearing.”
Eczema is also possible as well as allergic or irritant dermatitis caused by detergents they are washed in.
The risk of “maskne” is the result of a
‘Use a facial cleanser after taking off the mask, cleanse any cloth masks and don’t use the same mask each day’
condition called “acne mechanica”. “This is friction and also the occlusion of clogging of the pores from sweat, spit, humidity and even bacteria,” Dr Gohara said.
She said people with a tendency towards acne, those with oily skin who may have been wearing a mask for a long time, as well as adopters of a poor skincare routine, may suffer.
“My advice to others is to use a gentle facial cleanser after taking off the mask, cleanse any cloth masks and don’t use the same mask each day,” she added. “Use a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment on active spots and a gentle retinoid as well. Do not use scrubbing or excessive exfoliation and apply a gentle barrier cream to protect the skin from rubbing.”
Dr Vishal Madan, consultant dermatologist at Stratum Clinic in Manchester, added: “Too much moisturiser can block off pores and that can result in more spots.
“If you are using too much foundation, the mask adds pressure on the skin which means it will be absorbed into the skin to a deeper level.”
Jochen Zaumseil, L’Oréal’s executive-vice president in Asia-Pacific, said popular skincare brands such as La Roche-Posay and CeraVe had seen a “huge boom”.