How to Protect Your Skin from Your Protective Mask

As things begin to open up a bit and some of us venture back out into the world, there is a lot of uncertainty about exactly how things will go, but one thing we know for sure: masks are the new norm.

 

The mask is essential to protect yourself and those around you. Unfortunately, it’s not the best thing for your skin. A protective mask may rub against skin, creating irritation, and disrupting the skin barrier. Additionally, the mask creates humidity that can increase sebum production. That excess oil then gets trapped along with sweat and dirt under the mask.

 

Here’s how to avoid irritation and breakouts that could go along with wearing a protective mask.

 

Choose your fabric wisely

There’s no reason a mask can’t be fashionable, but pay attention to the fabric when making your choice.

 

For the inner layer that sits closest to your skin, avoid anything that is not breathable, or that has a potentially irritating rough texture. A soft, breathable cotton is your best choice.

 

For the outer layer, a heavier layer of fabric is preferable to provide protection from microbes.

 

If you’re making your own mask, the CDC recommends adding a filtering layer (like a coffee filter) between the outer and inner pieces of fabric.

 

Keep your mask clean

Keep multiple masks so you can use a fresh one every time you go out, and wash your reusable masks regularly to remove pore-clogging dirt, sweat, oil. Use fragrance-free detergent and dryer sheets to help avoid irritation.

 

Cleanse your face before and after

A mask traps dirt, oil, and sweat, so starting with clean skin will help to reduce pore-clogging elements. A cleanser with antimicrobial properties like Vivant’s Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Wash or Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Exfoliating Cleanser will do double-duty right now, killing acne bacteria and virus germs.

 

Keep up your skincare regimen

With dirt and oil getting trapped under a sweaty mask, cellular debris will build up more quickly. Acids will help loosen and lift dead skin cells, dirt, and oil. Vivant’s Daily Repair Pads are an acid cocktail in a textured pad that makes it ultra-simple to keep skin debris-free.

 

Keep up your entire four-step regimen including SPF. You may not need it under the mask, but your eyes, where the skin is thinnest and most vulnerable to photodamage, are still exposed.

 

Skip the makeup

Humidity created by the mask can increase sebum production, so by wearing makeup, you’re increasing your chances of sparking a flare-up. Since your skin will be covered anyway, it should be easy to skip foundation. Concentrate on your eyes instead.

 

Give skin a detox by using a mask a couple of times a week. For oily skin, use Vivant’s Sulfur Clay Mask to draw out impurities and deep clean pores. For an acne-fighting boost, apply a layer of BP 10% Gel Medication underneath the mask.

 

Algae Soft Mask is a hydrating and healing mask for all skin types. You can turn it into a rejuvenating mini-facial by adding a layer of Derm-A-Renew or your favorite serum underneath.

 

Soothe irritated skin

If friction from the mask is causing redness, rashiness, or irritation, look for gentle, anti-inflammatory ingredients to promote a resilient skin barrier.

 

Wash with a gentle cleanser. Vivant’s Green Tea Antioxidant Cleanser has potent anti-inflammatory properties and is a sebum reducer. For skin that’s generally dry and irritated, Cleansing Milk Gentle Non-Drying Cleanser soothes and nourishes the skin barrier.

 

For hydrating oily skin, Totaloe Calming & Hydrating Gel is a fast-absorbing, oil-free formula that helps regulate sebum production, reduce inflammation, and speed healing. Drier skin will get quick relief from anti-inflammatory Allantoin Sedating & Hydrating Lotion.  

 

To reduce redness and help repair the skin barrier, try Rejuv Rx Peptide Concentrate.

 

Get professional advice

If you can’t get in to see your skin care specialist, many are doing online consultations. They can take a virtual look at your skin to assess your current needs and provide appropriate products. Find a Vivant Skin Care professional.