12 Tips to Prevent COVID-19 Mask Acne (Maskne)

The coronavirus outbreak has increased the use of surgical and non-medical protective masks when leaving home. Unfortunately, the improper use of face masks is a frequent cause for acne breakouts for people with sensitive and/or acne-prone skin. As an integral part of our lives in the present and near future, it is important that we find ways to incorporate them successfully.

It seems that Maskne (Acne caused by wearing masks) is real! Looking at search volume for the word “acne,” it is easy to see an increase of nearly 20% vs. pre-corona levels. Interestingly the search volume decreased significantly in the first two weeks of the pandemic, increasing again in the third week and beyond.

How Can Protective Masks Cause More Acne?

Breathing in and out under a mask increases the temperature and humidity of the covered areas of the face, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to breed. Wearing a mask causes constant friction against the skin, damaging the outer protective layer. The resulting vulnerable and damaged skin allows the bacteria on its surface to easily enter deep into clogged oil glands, causing increased…