Maskne (mask and acne) is the buzzword assigned to the increased spot breakouts people are experiencing in their skin, particularly on the lower half of the face, due to the constant close covering of a mask. Maskne can also present itself in the form of extremely dry and itchy patches, raw and red skin and even rashes.

Mask wearing promotes a warm, moist environment which is created by talking, breathing and sweating within the mask, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. This in turn then leads to the build-up and spread of often painful acne beneath the mask. This bacteria promoting environment, combined with clogged pores from the occlusion of the mask, unavoidable friction caused by the mask and sometimes pre-existing acne are all elements contributing to Maskne.

Speaking about the increased worry regarding Maskne, renowned Irish Skin Therapist Eavanna Breen said: “Since it became mandatory to wear masks in public, I have seen a significant increase in the amount of clients who come to the clinic or contact me about their concerns with Maskne. There is some frustration about this condition, with some clients saying they are wearing the masks, not touching their faces and therefore should see a reduction in acne but instead unfortunately we are presented with this new phenomenon.

“The important thing to remember is that there are lots of different steps we can take in order to help with this new condition. The severity of the maskne may differ between people but one important piece of advice would be that reusable masks are washed frequently, ideally after every use to minimise the spread and transfer of bacteria.

“General advice would be to examine your skincare routine and keep things simple. I would advise anyone to speak to a skincare professional if they have concerns about their skin. At Akina Beauty Clinic in Dublin 2, myself and my team of skin experts will come up with the best possible plan of action and treatments for your individual skin’s particular needs. Often your routine from home and the products you are using can be making these conditions worse without you knowing. Here at Akina Beauty we will make sure you are on the right path”.

However, with mask wearing set to be part of our everyday lives for the foreseeable future, there are a few simple steps we all must get used to in order to minimise these breakouts:

Step 1: Invest in a gentle cleanser. Often cleansers contain surfactants that strip the skin's hydrolipidic barrier and potentially further aggravate the skin. Speak to a skin therapist about which products are needed specifically for you.

Step 2: Ensure your mask is cleaned regularly if you are using a cloth mask. If using disposable masks, change them as required.

Step 3: Keep your skincare routine simple, go back to basics for a period of time to allow your skin barrier to heal and repair itself, due to the conflict inflicted by this new daily mask wearing.

Step 4: It is important to continue to wear sunscreen, as taking your mask on and off frequently can remove your sunscreen and leave the skin vulnerable to further damage and inflammation.

Step 5: Most importantly: do not pick your skin. This will likely lead to aggravating the condition, further spreading of the acne and even scarring.

Eavanna Breen and the Akina Beauty Clinic team are available for daily skin treatments and consultations. During all consultations, the expert team will carry out a thorough analysis of your skin, discuss any concerns you might have and set you on course to secure your best possible skin health and complexion.