But with all this mask-wearing, more people are beginning to complain about a skin condition nicknamed, “maskne” or “mask acne.”
Maskne , or it’s proper name “acne mechanica,” is caused by the combination of rubbing from the mask, which irritates the skin barrier, as well as the hot moisture trapped inside, which dilates the pores and allows bacteria and oil to clog them up.
Another way a cloth mask can cause breakouts is when you don’t wash it and the cloth had a build-up of dirt and bacteria.
Here are a few tips:
If you are prone to acne, dermatologists recommend avoiding masks made of fabrics like polyester that tend to trap sweat underneath.
Using a mask with an inner layer made from an absorbent material such as cotton can help absorb sweat and is less likely lead to breakouts.