How To Fight "Maskne" With These Simple Steps

 "Maskne" is a growing indirect effect of COVID-19 in today's society. You may have seen this word pop up in your timeline or your friend mentioned it in a conversation over lunch. "Maskne" is essentially acne caused by wearing a face mask due to COVID-19. Now the thing about acne is that it is essentially inflammation of a blocked poor at a hair follicle and when you add in a face mask it adds an additional physical barrier that blocks oils and prevents the skin to essentially "airing out".

Chin acne it's self is already a tough type of acne to deal with because it is usually linked with a hormonal imbalance or the overproduction of oil glands. Both of these issues can be considered to be interconnected as well as difficult to treat simply with products. However, the use of the right products can make a world of difference when it comes to mask acne especially in conjunction with lifestyle changes.

To start off here are a few lifestyle tips that will allow your skin to reset and find a balance through your microbiome. 

1. Don't wear the mask longer than needed, but also do not take risks by disregarding guidelines.
2. Implement greens into your diet.
3. Consider minimizing or stopping the use of face make up temporarily.

Finally I would like to recommend a few  products to you that i have found to be helpful when it comes to acne in general. An  important thing to pay attention to when implementing products into your routine is making sure they are fragrance-free because fragrance has been known to cause sensitive skin and weaken your skin barrier. (This is not what we want especially when fighting acne caused by mask friction and  humidity entrapment.):

---

Countercontrol Clear Pore CleanseR

The Clear Pore Cleanser from Beautycounter is designed for acne prone skin. This cleanser helps remove dirt and debris from your pores which is important because it prevents buildup and should be used in the morning to prevent locking debris in when wearing a mask and at night to allow your skin a clean surface to restore itself on.

---

Countercontrol Matte Effect Gel Cream

The Matte Effect Gel Cream from Beautycounter is also designed for acne prone skin. This gel is light weight and allows your skin to absorb moisture without leaving residue which could end up trapping in moisture when wearing a mask leading to clogged pores.

---

Countermatch Adaptive Moisture Lotion

The Adaptive Moisture Lotion from Beautycounter is designed for normal skin that is seeking replenishment and nourishment. It is important to keep your skin healthy and hydrated so that the skin barrier and microbiome does not wear down which will prevent the passage of antigens and harmful bacteria into the skin tissue.

---

Counter+Charcoal Facial Mask

 The Charcoal Mask from Beautycounter is designed to pull toxins out of pores which can prevent and treat occurring acne. This mask is especially useful as we are beginning to go more and more places that require masks such as work and school. This mask can be used 2 to 3 times a week to draw out impurities and prevent acne from forming.

---