Whether you wear makeup or not, you might have encountered some skin struggles as a result of wearing a mask to protect yourself and others from the spread of the current pandemic. Here are 9 simple ways to help mitigate any side effects that you might be experiencing and help to prevent any future breakouts!
1. Wash your face as soon as you get home
This can help remove any environmental debris from the air as well as any sweat build-up or pore blockages. Removing the grime and aftermath of a long day feels cool and refreshing, and will help keep your skin clear. Use a gentle face cleanser when you get home for the day, instead of waiting for bedtime.
2. Avoid washing your face frequently
The icky feeling of sweat and oil build-up might make you want to wash your face a ton throughout the day. Doing so, however, might strip your face of its natural oils and leave your skin dry and irritated. Do your best to time your wash for when you will be home for the rest of the day.
3. Clean your face mask after each use
If you use a cloth mask, the CDC states that you can “include your face covering with your regular laundry.” Using warm to hot water is best for killing bacteria. Easy peasy! Be sure to discard your disposable masks to limit the amount of dirt and oil that you will keep putting back on your face each time you put the mask back on.
4. Rotate your cloth face masks throughout the week
If you can, buy or make a couple of masks. Instead of washing one mask every day, you can clean them all at once or twice a week. You’ll have a clean mask every day, and less laundry to manage.
5. Opt out of heavier, oil-based products
The oil can mix with your natural sebum, sweat, and bacteria – a recipe for clogged pores. This especially goes for your makeup. You want to give your skin a chance to breathe, especially if you’re using a tighter face mask that could pick the oils and carry them inside the fabric.
6. Wear less makeup on the bottom part of your face
You may want to go without foundation altogether and opt for just eye makeup. Try tinted moisturizer instead of a heavy-duty foundation, or just spot correct with a concealer, after all, your face will mainly be covered and all the attention will be on your eyes!
7. Avoid touching your face with dirty hands
You may need to touch your face when adjusting your mask, putting it on, or taking it off. Try to ensure your hands are clean while you do so. Use hand sanitizer or wash your hands before reaching up to limit the amount of dirt and oil you transfer onto your skin.
8. Hydrate skin
Moisture loss is one of the biggest causes (and effects) of irritation. As we know, irritation can cause and worsen breakouts. Spritz rosewater or aloe vera juice on thirsty skin throughout the day. Use hydrating serums before and after wearing a face mask.
9. Use a moisturizer before leaving your house
If you know you’re going to be wearing a mask for an extended amount of time, it’s important to moisturize beforehand; especially since you might not be able to throughout the day. Use a nourishing ingredient, like shea butter or sea buckthorn oil, to seal in hydration and soften the skin. Lightweight moisturizers are our personal favorites to keep skin from feeling too hot and heavy inside your mask.
Whatever shape, material, or filter you use, adapting to a face mask means changes to your skincare and makeup routine. To ease and avoid breakouts, these changes might make your morning more minimalistic as you cut products out of your routine. It might also mean using lighter products that suit your skin better during these difficult times.
You may have to compensate with more hydration and less occlusive ingredients. Occlusives are a class of ingredients designed to provide a protective seal over skin and lock in hydration. Treat yourself and your skin gently!
Sara was born and raised in the Czech Republic. In 2012, she moved to the US and worked many jobs but never felt fulfilled, which lead her to share her story and her passion for fitness (former fitness professional), nutrition tips (vegan) and makeup. She is also a new mom. Sara and her husband welcomed their baby boy in June 2020.
Sara is a makeup junkie at heart and decided to start her own business to help women look and feel their best. She loves supporting other business moms feel beautiful inside and out as they work to create their own destinies. You could find out more about her HERE.
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