‘Maskne’: How To Prevent Acne Breakouts Due To Face Mask

Joshua Tresvalles  6/12/2020

As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, many of us have to wear a face mask when going out to lessen the chances of getting infected by COVID-19. At some point, you may have noticed some acne breakouts around your face caused by a sweaty, sticky feeling you get after wearing one. That feeling breeds pore-clogging, breakout-causing oil and bacteria. This effect, it turns out, is what is increasingly referred to as “maskne.”

Maskne, also known by the scientific term “acne mechanica,” is a type of acne that is caused by friction or pressure on skin as a result of wearing heavy clothing or protective gear — in this case a face mask, either disposable or cloth-based.

In addition to eczema or dry, itchy skin, wearing a mask throughout the day can cause breakouts in areas where the mask meets your skin, such as your nose, cheeks and chin. The reason for that is because your mask traps sweat, dirt, oil and humidity, which are stuck on your skin all throughout the day. Bacteria formed under your mask can be pushed into the skin through friction caused by the mask being pressed onto your face, causing increased inflammation, which in turn triggers acne.

If you are worried about pimples suddenly appearing after an hour or more of wearing a face mask, Dr. Axe has shared some ways to help you prevent mask-related acne breakouts:

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