Written by Janu Yasotharan
When it comes to ‘maskne’, or mask-related acne, none of us are really in the clear, pun intended. Medically known as acne mechanica, maskne is a skin condition that occurs with prolonged and consistent use of personal protective equipment. Maskne isn’t a new phenomenon by any means, as it has impacted health care professionals for quite some time now. But with the rise of the general population’s use of masks in their day-to-day lives, maskne has become quite the topic of conversation.
The reality is that our developing understanding of the ‘new normal’ requires us to wear masks regularly, and sometimes, for longer periods of time than we normally ever would have. The naturally occurring sweat, oil, and bacteria on our skin being trapped by the heat, friction, and moisture from quite literally existing behind a mask is an acne flare up waiting to happen...even for those that don’t have a history of dealing with breakouts.
The consensus on many platforms is that to rid ourselves of maskne, we should be regularly switching out our masks/washing them, break up with our makeup, and that less is more...for now, anyway. But doing just these may not always do the trick. Using topical treatments, pore cleansers, and catering your skin care routine to the environmental impacts that your body is being exposed to can help calm and balance your skin’s microbiome (think of your microbiome like an invisible ecosystem that, similarly to your gut’s flora, will work to keep your skin healthy and in optimal condition).
Enter Clear Start’s Breakout Clearing Booster and Blackhead Clearing Fizz Mask!
Clear Start’s Breakout Clearing Booster is a fast-acting, lightweight spot treatment packed with effective and efficient ingredients that kill breakout-causing bacteria in just 15-minutes. The salicylic acid in this product stimulates natural exfoliation, helping to clear the skin and minimize breakout formation. Our patented Thymol and Terpineol (TT) Complex and Phytoplankton Extract work with the skin’s natural microbiome to reduce breakout causing bacteria while preserving “good” bacteria- kind of like a probiotic! While the Niacinamide in Clear Start’s Breakout Clearing Booster works to enhance the skin’s own antibacterial defences and evens skin tone, a seaweed-derived Chondrus Crispus Extract that is complexed with Hyaluronic Acid, locks in moisture to soothe irritated skin.
Ultimately, this product helps boost the skin’s natural defences, soothes breakout-irritated skin, and helps unclogs pores. All you have to do is apply a small amount directly to your blemish or breakout before heading out with your mask on. Alternatively, apply a thin layer all over the face after toner and under moisturizer for breakout prevention.
For your post-mask needs and to take your maskne prevention and treatment routine to another level, try Clear Start’s Blackhead Clearing Fizz Mask. It’s a fizz activated mask that targets blackheads before they turn into breakouts. By activating upon application, our Blackhead Clearing Fizz Mask helps to open pores and decongest skin. Skin Care Therapist, Nyssa Grays highlights how well this product facilitates easy blackhead clearing, especially on the nose area. “There is nothing more satisfying than a smooth blackhead-free nose!” she says, and we agree. Packed with anti-microbial Sulfur, purifying Kaolin Clay, and hydrating Apple Fruit Extract, this mask is absolutely IT!
To learn more about products that will help fight maskne, visit our Clear Start page!
