*Collaborative post.
Before January last year, when anyone talked about a face mask, we would assume the beauty kind – you know, the sort that you slather on to your face, leave it on so you look like something resembling a zombie and then peel it off when it has dried. Now, when you mention face masks, everyone knows that you mean the cloth kind!
While wearing a mask was commonplace already in some countries, like China, here in the United Kingdom it is a whole new thing for most people. Previously, it was only certain medical professionals that would wear them. This means that there is a lot of us walking around not quite understanding the impact that wearing a mask can have on our skin. While wearing a mask is, of course, extremely important at the moment, looking after our skin is also something that we should all be doing.
Here, we look at some tips to help you protect your skin while you also protect yourself and other people.
Consider the material that your mask is made out of
There are so many masks out there at the moment and it is quite the minefield to find one that is effective, safe, comfortable and kind to our skin. The best option for your skin is a pure cotton mask. Sweat, breath, saliva and moisture all get trapped between your skin and the mask, which makes it the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This is what then leads to an outbreak of spots – or ‘maskne’. Tightly woven cotton masks will reduce the amount of bacteria against your skin.
Avoid wearing makeup with your mask
One of the main causes of acne is blocked pores and the skin not being able to breathe. Add a layer of makeup to that and you have invited skin irritation, spots and redness. Try to avoid wearing makeup as much as possible while wearing a mask, but if you do, make sure you wear as little as possible and remove it all carefully at night. You can also find out how to deal with skin redness so that you do not feel like you have to wear makeup to cover up.
Cleanse your skin when you get home
When you get home and have taken your mask off – remember to put it in the wash without touching it – go and cleanse your skin. It means that all of the bacteria, grime, sweat and everything else that has been trapped on your skin by the mask is cleansed away.
Wash your mask after every use
If you are wearing a reusable mask, you should be washing it after every wear. Pop it in the washing machine or soak it in hot water and detergent for a few minutes. Just be careful of using any harsh chemicals or detergents on something that is used on your face.
No one enjoys wearing a mask and no one enjoys their skin after wearing one but they keep us safe. Wear a mask – but look after your skin.
