How to avoid skin irritation under your mask

You can already feel it coming, that tan line separating the top and bottom halves of your face; the proof of afternoons spent basking in the sun. Rest assured, many of us will head back to the office in the autumn with a similar mark. But it’s not only our tan that the daily use of a mask could potentially affect, but it could also cause some other skin issues. You might already have noticed since it has become compulsory in many public spaces: after a few hours, redness can appear, maybe even irritation or spots. Fortunately, integrating some new habits into our daily lives can help avoid any nasty surprises, and keep your skin fresh even under your mask.

Clean your skin regularly

You’ve probably noticed that under that mask, it’s hot and humid. This tropical atmosphere aids the proliferation of bacteria and fungi, so it’s best to wash your face frequently if you want to avoid seeing blackheads popping up, or ingrown hairs bothering your beard. The heat under the mask can also cause folliculitis or infected hair follicles. Not nice. So don’t forget your beard when you’re washing your face...it’s part of it! “Generally, we recommend washing your face at least once a day with gentle products, free of soap and detergents, to avoid stripping the skin. And if you have to touch your face, make sure you have clean hands before,” says dermatologist Héloïse Clerc.

Remember to wash or change your mask

Masks are effective, but only if used correctly. The golden rule: change surgical or FFP2 masks regularly, and wash any reusable fabric masks. The primary objective is, of course, to wipe out any viral particles, but it will also prevent bacteria and germs from growing in the fibres of the mask, and avoid any resulting skin problems.

The French Standards Association (Afnor) recommends machine-washing fabric masks at 60 degrees for a minimum of 30 minutes after each use. Hand-washing is not advised since it is potentially less thorough and less effective at killing viral particles. Once washed, Afnor recommends letting a mask air-dry or tumble-dry before ironing with steam (at a suitable temperature, of course).

Use products suitable for your skin type

If you have dry or atopic skin, consider moisturising with a barrier cream that will help restore the natural protection usually created by sebum production. Otherwise, it is better to choose neutral products that do not contain fragrances or essential oils. The same is try for oily or acne-prone skin, which needs appropriate creams that don’t damage the epidermis.

When it comes to the mask, Dr. Clerc advises people prone to acne to continue their regular habits: “you should use a cleansing product, a suitable day cream, and a local treatment if prescribed. It’s better to avoid touching acne spots or scars, especially if your hands are not clean”.

Cotton or synthetic?

Depending on the type of mask you use, the effects on your skin may vary. “Synthetic materials like neoprene can more easily cause irritation or reactions. On the other hand, cotton poses a risk due to the occlusive nature of the mask, which can prevent the skin from breathing properly. Even more so if the mask is not clean every time it is used” explains Dr. Clerc

Generally speaking, softer cotton will be better tolerated by the epidermis because it is less likely to trigger allergies or irritations in the areas where the mask is in direct contact with the skin, and where friction is more likely to occur. The choice of mask is therefore important, especially if you are going to be wearing it for hours at a time.

Protect yourself from the sun

The sunny days are on their way, and it seems as though the mask will be sticking around. If you regularly leave the house with your face covered, that famous tan line will eventually take shape. To avoid it, there is no miracle solution. “You either have to limit sun exposure, or limit the use of the mask to mandatory times,” says Dr. Clerc. But whether masked or not, the recommendation when it comes to sun exposure is the same: protect yourself with a sunscreen adapted to your phototype. Dr. Clerc advises anyone with fair skin to use a cream with SPF 50, but also to avoid using any sunscreens with tan activators, as this can lead to pigmentation irregularities. If addition to protecting your epidermis, sunscreen will also reduce the risk of any tan marks left by the mask. Another reason not to ignore it.