Maskne: How masks are causing breakouts and what you can do about it

For all the good they are doing, there are a few tiny issues that we have to deal with when it comes to constantly wearing face masks.

Skincare issues are one of the main concerns and let's be honest, a few breakouts are a small price to pay for saving lives. Still though, much of the population have noticed flare ups and conditions such as eczema, breakouts and rashes, as a result of the severe stress brought on by the pandemic... and by wearing a mask. At this stage everyone has worn a mask at least once. Some of us may have already even experienced a few breakouts because of them. Here's everything you need to know about this newfound 'maskne,' and what you can do to tackle it. What is 'maskne'? The new beauty buzzword of 2020 is "maskne." And yep, you've probably guessed it - it's acne from wearing a mask. Since masks were made a permanent thing in July more and more people are noticing that their skin is acting up more than usual - particularly on the lower half of their face. So, why are people breaking out from masks? According to Akina Beauty's Eavanna Breen, these breakouts are being caused by the constant, yet necessary, covering of the mouth, nose, chin, and cheeks. “Since it became mandatory to wear masks in public, I have seen a significant increase in the amount of clients who come to the clinic or contact me about their concerns with Maskne," she says. "There is some frustration about this condition, with some clients saying they are wearing the masks, not touching their faces and therefore should see a reduction in acne but instead unfortunately we are presented with this new phenomenon." So, what you can do about it? The good news is that there are some steps you can take to prevent breakouts and flare-ups. "One important piece of advice would be that reusable masks are washed frequently, ideally after every use to minimise the spread and transfer of bacteria," says Eavanna. She adds that to combat these breakouts, we should "examine your skincare routine and keep things simple." If your skin gets really bad, you can always reach out to a professional. But in the meantime, it's definitely worth changing up your skincare routine, and going for some products that aren't as harsh on the affected areas. "Often your routine from home and the products you are using can be making these conditions worse without you knowing," says Eavanna.