HOW TO PREVENT SKIN IRRITATIONS FROM WEARING A MASK

SKIN IRRITATIONS FROM WEARING A MASK ARE A REAL THING:
Here is how you can protect your skin.

As we adjust to our new normal we are faced with new ways to conduct our daily lives. Some of us are working out of home, cancelling vacation plans, scheduling our trips to the grocery store and wearing a mask while we are in public. 

While masks can protect us, covering up our skin can contribute to clogging our pores and oil glands resulting in skin irritation and breakouts. It is important to continue wearing a mask even while your skin is irritated, in order to help in protecting our health and the health of others.
Here are some great tips from board certified dermatologist Dr. William Schweitzer for taking care of your skin under the mask:

BE GENTLE
Invest in mild skin care products while using a mask. Use a light moisturizer that won’t clog your pores and opt for a non-soap mild cleanser to gently clean your skin after the mask comes off. Stay away from attacking your skin with heavy cleansers and exfoliants.

BE CHOOSY
Choose a mask that is light and will allow your skin to breathe. If available, opt for paper disposable masks and discard it after each use. If you are making your own mask, choose soft fabric such as cotton to prevent your skin from getting irritated. Wash your mask after each use with a gentle detergent.

BE FREE
Opt to go makeup free under the mask. Wearing heavy makeup under the mask contributes to skin irritation and breakouts. If you must use something, apply a sparkly eyeshadow on your eyes and pencil in your eyebrows and show off those areas.

BE PROTECTIVE
If your skin is already irritated from wearing a mask protect your skin under the mask and after taking the mask off.
Breakouts: wash your face after wearing a mask with a gentle cleanser free of alcohol and soap. Use a non-comedogenic light moisturizer after each wash.
Dry and irritated skin: protect your skin with a protective ointment such as petroleum jelly after you wash your skin with a gentle cleanser. Apply a good coating when you go to bed and if your skin is not acne prone, you can use a light protective layer under the mask.

For more information:
www.prodermimage.com
Book your next appointment with Dr. Schweitzer:
805-379-5970

ProDerm Image – Cosmetic Dermatology
960 South Westlake Blvd., Suite 208
Westlake Village, CA 91361