What is Maskne & how to treat it with DMK

So, it’s the new norm to have to wear a protective mask in busy public areas, shops, salons and hairdressers. As we adapt to these changes to stay safe some people have found their skin is suffering. Mask Acne! Or Maskne as it’s been dubbed is a real problem!

The technical name for Maskne is actually, Acne mechanica. This is an acneiform eruption that is common after repetitive physical trauma to the skin such as rubbing, occurring from clothing or sports equipment or this case masks. As well as the friction the skin is not getting enough exposure to air and this also contributes to the formation of acne mechanica.

We are often asked by our clinics how they can control and treat the breakouts and irritation their staff are suffering with from having to wear masks all day. Flare ups of acne, perioral dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis around the mouth and nose are also becoming common from wearing masks.

If we wear a mask for long periods of time, we have an increased moisture rich environment where bacteria will flourish. Combined with heat trapped by the mask, sweat, and friction it’s a skin nightmare waiting to happen! So, what can we do prevent or control Maskne? Well there are a few basic rules to wearing a mask that everyone should follow, and we also have some fantastic products in the DMK Skincare range that can treat the condition.

What can you do?

There are two types of masks to choose, a disposable mask or a re-usable mask. The disposable mask is suitable to wear for up to approx 2-3 hours, just be aware reusing a dirty mask or a disposable mask more than a few times increases your risk of irritated skin. Makeup, sweat, saliva etc all possibly getting on the mask and then you reapply it, No thank you! If your disposable mask needs to be refreshed, throw it in the bin and pop a clean one on.

The reusable masks are a great option for someone who has to wear a mask all day every day, all you need to do it wash it with a little detergent and dry it out at the end of each day. Your reusable mask should be of good quality and have at least 3 layers of fabric. The middle layer being the filter layer. Just think you don’t want to sit in sweaty dirty mask!

DMK is the world leader in skincare and we have numerous products in the range that can help treat, prevent and control Maskne.

Actrol Powder

This is an antibacterial powder specifically formulated to reduce excess sebaceous oil flow whilst assisting in the clearing of acne. Actrol Powder absorbs oil without dehydrating the skin, it also offers a cleansing seal on the skin and encourages healing.

This unique formulation is suitable for sensitive, oily and acne prone skins. You can use a clean dry fluffy brush to dust your face lightly with Actrol Powder to reduce moisture and create and antibacterial seal. Pop your mask on and away you go!

Acu Mist

A powerful skin mist that kills 98% of bacteria, formulated with a concentrated blend of botanicals that Dr. Danne developed call Botanichem, aloe, alginic acid from seaweed and antioxidant orange peel.

Designed to help acne sufferers restore the very important acid mantle (which acts as a barrier against bacteria, and other potential contaminants) as well as protect against trans epidermal water loss. This spray will keep the skin hydrated and protected throughout the day, you can regularly spray you skin and mask to reduce bacteria build up. Easy peasy!

Acu Masque

This has been a skin saviour for so many during lockdown. Acu Masque is a diverse and versatile masque that aims to fight acne-causing bacteria, purify the skin, soothe and reduce redness, and inflammation. It contains Bentonite clay, Sulfur, Kaolin and Eucalyptus.

It also purifies ducts which are plugged by dead cells and sebum, and prevents pimple eruptions, while acting as an astringent on enlarged pores. Apply 1-2 nights a week on cleansed skin, leave for 10-20 minutes and rinse well with warm water.

Beta Gel Serum

This is one of our Signature products in the DMK range. It is an immune-boosting serum formulated for acne, burns, sunburn, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, premature aging, sluggish skins, super sensitive skins, and anyone who needs increased healing and skin regeneration. A unique serum packed with vitamin C and the most potent beta-glucan extracted from yeasts’ cell walls.

Beta Gel serum can help reduce swelling, redness, and inflammation allowing healthier skin cells to fight back. It can be applied directly to any skin condition. Apply morning and night on clean skin before creams or SPF.