“You protect me. I protect you”.
We’re all too familiar with this new phrase and are all aware of the importance of wearing face masks. It is just as important, though, that we adapt and learn to live as happily and comfortably as possible, given our new social responsibilities.
Wearing a face mask stops the transmission of COVID. But you don’t have to wear a doctors’ mask, and it doesn’t have to be dull. If you choose several visual designs that resonate with your personality, switch between fresh and old masks daily, keep them clean, and take some extra skincare steps, you’ll have nothing to worry about.
If, on the other hand, you wear the same mask repeatedly and don’t adjust your skincare routine, you may likely be in for some oily and acne-prone skin around your mouth and nose. Here, Dr. Bryan Armijo offers some simple skin and mask care tips to protect your skin beneath your face mask.
Use a Cotton Face Mask
The point of a mask for the general public is to prevent droplet (saliva and phlegm) transmission and reduce people touching their mouths and faces. This significantly reduces the chances of contracting the COVID virus when out in public.
With this in mind, a tightly woven cotton mask will be far more comfortable than N95 and surgical masks, which should be saved for frontline workers such as nurses and doctors. Cotton is also very gentle on the skin and is easy to keep clean.
Wear Clean Masks
It would help if you had enough masks to wear a clean one every day of the week. Cotton masks will absorb your skin’s natural oils and microparticles, which, when placed against your skin, can lead to irritation and acne build ups if worn repeatedly.
Regularly Wash Your Face – But Be Gentle
Those particularly susceptible to acne breakouts need to find a gentle pH-neutral soap or facewash. It’s a good idea to wash your face after taking off your mask, but excessive washing can lead to dry skin.
Be gentle with your skin as you wash, and keep in mind that you’re washing to remove excess oil and dust which may have built up underneath your mask – you’re not trying to exfoliate.
Apply Makeup at The Optimal Moment
Foundation and concealer attract dirt and dust, so wearing them under your mask will only exacerbate things. Consider doing your eyes before you leave your house, but leave the bottom half of your face makeup-free.
Be Consistent
Carry out your morning and evening skincare routines just as you would normally. Being consistent with gentle washing throughout the day, exfoliating, and moisturizing will ensure you maintain your radiant skin- even underneath the mask. Using a complete skincare system such as the award-winning LUMIVIVE system will take your skincare to the next level.
If you’re finding your skin is reacting poorly to wearing a mask, you might consider a laser resurfacing procedure to rejuvenate your skin and give you a fresh slate to work with.
Reach Out for Help
The best way to keep your skin looking great is to reach out for help. Our doors remain open with safety protocols in place to keep you safe. To learn more about the many skincare services we offer, please reach out to board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Bryan Armijo, by calling (214) 540-1434 or filling out our online form.