With numerous mask mandates remaining active, many people have been experiencing irritation on their faces recently. Many people experience skin issues from face masks because of additional stress, sweat, and regular friction. Depending on how often you wear them, your typical skincare routine may not cut it.
Fortunately, there are ways that you can keep your skin issues under control. Here are some of the ways you can wear a mask and still protect your skin.
Choose Your Mask Wisely
Not all masks are created equal. One of the best investments you can make is in a quality mask. Nylon and other synthetic materials are more prone to breakouts and irritation because they trap sweat and bacteria.
If you can, purchase masks made of 100% cotton. Cotton masks are breathable and still keep transmission viruses minimal. Make sure to choose a mask that completely covers your face in order to keep yourself and others safe.
Use Natural Skincare Products
If you currently use a plethora of skincare products made with synthetic ingredients, you should consider disposing of these and replacing them with all-natural skincare products. The reason for this is that many of the unnatural chemicals that are in standard skincare items are far too harsh for a person with sensitive skin.
For example, cleansers with strong synthetic surfactants will strip away all of the protective oils on your face and in doing so, will leave your skin parched and unprotected. This will, in turn, make it more susceptible to dryness, redness, and irritation.
A natural, oil-based cleanser (featuring, for example, coconut, almond, or jojoba oil) would be a much better option, as this will gently remove any grime from your face, without stripping away your skin’s own oils and causing dehydration.
Likewise, instead of using a moisturizer that contains harsh synthetic fragrances that can act as skin irritants, you should consider using a natural moisturizer that is either unscented or one which features natural essential oils that won’t make your skin even more sensitive.
Maintain Your Skincare Routine
If your skin is just getting by with your regular skincare routine, this is not the time to start slacking. In fact, you should become more consistent in order to combat additional breakouts. Over-the-counter solutions like non-comedogenic cleansers and salicylic acid to handle problem areas.
Lots of people have elaborate beauty routines, which involve using a dozen or more beauty products each day. However, if your skin is especially sensitive, it is best to keep your routine as simple as possible. The reason for this is that if you apply half a dozen products to your face each morning and evening, all of the rubbing, scrubbing, and wiping movements that you use during the application process will leave your already delicate complexion looking even more irritated than it did before.
Furthermore, if you use a large number of products, it will be very hard for you to determine which ones are harming your skin and which ones are actually beneficial. This may result in you continuing to use products that are exacerbating your skin sensitivity issues.
By sticking to a basic routine, which includes cleansing, moisturizing, and applying some SPF when you need to go outside, your skin should look and feel less sore and irritated, and you should have no difficulty distinguishing between products that are good for your skin type and ones that are unsuitable.
It’s also important to moisturize your skin often. Dry skin rubbing against masks makes it worse. Depending on your skin type, adding detoxification masks will help keep your skin balanced, especially if you have acne-prone skin. If your problems persist, seek help from a professional who specializes in dermatology. Medical experts are aware that everyone’s skin is different, so they will be able to find a solution that will fit your particular needs.
Minimize Makeup Usage
Of course, people who enjoy using makeup shouldn’t have to go bare-faced to prevent breakage. However, you may want to cut down on how much makeup you apply, especially if you’re experiencing problems because of it.
If you’re running an errand, consider only doing areas that show. If you work in an environment that requires you to look your best, you can add enough to look presentable. Using too much will lead to breakouts that you’ll need to cover with more makeup, creating a never-ending cycle.
Since you don’t know how long you’ll have to wear masks, prepare yourself to experience occasional skin issues. The best thing you can do is give your skin the best chance of being healthy. Everything from choosing the right masks to sticking to your skincare regimen can play a key role in how well your skin behaves while you’re wearing a mask and when you remove it.
