How to keep your complexion clear while wearing a face mask.

While wearing a face covering may help keep us safe from Covid-19, many have found face masks can cause some less than desirable side effects when it comes to your skin. A small price to pay for avoiding contracting this very serious virus, but a cause for concern nonetheless. Wearing masks can lead to an accumulation of sweat, which can lead to blocked pores.

What You Can Do to Help Keep Your Skin Clear and Healthy
The good news is, there are several things you can do to prevent your face mask from causing any damage to your skin. Firstly, it is important to consider the material that your mask is made from. Ideally, these should be made from tightly woven cotton instead of synthetic fabric, as they will feel more breathable and softer on the skin. If you’re using a homemade cloth face mask, you should also wash it regularly, as it may be absorbing your skin’s natural oils which could lead to breakouts.

Build a Barrier
Masks rubbing against the face can irritate sensitive skin. To avoid this, use a barrier cream or balm to protect the pores. Apply an oil-free moisturiser to damp skin multiple times a day to restore the skin barrier and ensure your skin is properly hydrated at all times. Invest in a cream that contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid as both these ingredients are highly moisturising, while ceramides create a good barrier layer on the skin.

Change Up Your Routine
To prevent your skin from drying out, stick to unscented or fragrance-free cleansers. Cleanse your skin twice a day, morning and evening – no more, irritated skin won’t thank you for it. Instead, when you remove your face mask, make it a routine to wash the mask itself. Swap them out after each use and always have a fresh, clean mask on rotation.

Inside Out
Supporting your skin from within is the best form of protection. In addition to a healthy diet, try Cleanmarine For Women (now known as CleanMarine PeriodPlan), a unique all-in-one omega 3, phytonutrient and vitamin blend designed to provide extra nutritional support for women. This Irish supplement brand contains vitamin B2, which works to maintain normal, healthy skin and vitamin B6 which contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity.

Gently Does It
If your skin is experiencing irritation, take a break from using any harsh scrubs or chemical exfoliators that may worsen the problem. Pat your face dry with a towel to dry it after cleansing rather than rubbing the skin which can lead to further irritation.

Less is More
For make-up wearers suffering from “maskne,” acne caused by the mask trapping dirt and oil in pores, resulting in spots or redness around the mouth area, switch up your products to lighter formulas, particularly foundations and concealer, or better yet, skip make-up altogether while the skin recovers