Are you suffering from 'Maskne' - the horrid new skin condition caused by face masks?

24/2/21

Are you suffering from ‘Maskne’? Well if so, you are among the many people now being afflicted with the newly named ‘Maskne’ which is a new found skin condition caused by the essential daily wearing of facial masks. Whilst no one would dispute their enormous importance in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 they are shown to cause skin sensitivity, spots and soreness.

Unfortunately, the enclosed area of the mask against our skin creates a micro-environment of warm moisture. This is exacerbated by hot air getting trapped in the mask when we breathe or talk which further creates a warm humid environment underneath the mask. This dilates the pores and disrupts both the oil and sweat glands – all of which ultimately disrupts the skin barrier function resulting in activating skin inflammation beneath the mask. Additionally, the yeast and bacteria that make up the microbiome then multiply causing infection and releasing pro-inflammatory molecules that aggravate skin damage. Sweat glands can become clogged, and allergic reactions to the yeasts, bacteria or even the mask material can negatively impact the skin in the form of breakouts, rosacea, perioral dermatitis and skin sensitivity. This has given way to a new collective term for these skin conditions called ‘Maskne’.

What are the symptoms of 'Maskne'?

Any of these conditions individually or collectively:

• Folliculitis
• Rosacea
• Acne
• Seborrheic or atopic dermatitis
• Chafing irritation
• Heat rash

So how can Epionce help?

The goal is to normalise the skin by repairing the underlying damage that induces the visible skin changes and retrain the skin tissues. This helps the cells to keep the skin clean so it can be at its best to prevent environmental damage as well as combating the disruption caused by wearing masks.
Below you'll find regime suggestions to help keep skin healthy and happy.

Start with clean skin

Begin with antimicrobial but not barrier disrupting cleansers which include Epionce Lytic Gel Cleanser or for those that are excessively oily, use Epionce Purifying Wash. Second, use the appropriate toner, such as Epionce Purifying Toner for acne or oily skin, or Epionce Balancing Toner for rosacea. Toners help remove traces of dirt, oil or makeup without stripping the barrier.