The CDC continues to recommend that people wear masks in public and around others, especially where it’s difficult to maintain a six-foot distance. (To better understand how cloth face coverings can prevent the spread of COVID-19, this Stanford scientist explains the concept of source control).

And while choosing to wear a face covering means practicing good hygiene (and a show of mutual respect), it can also inadvertently do a number on the skin. Dermatologists are reporting an increase in patients with acne problems as a result, and many have been experiencing irritation, rashes, redness, abrasions and even post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 

How Does Wearing a Mask Irritate the Skin?

When sweat, oil or makeup are on your face and then trapped by a face covering, congestion begins and can lead to blemishes, acne, eczema or even rosacea.

They also create direct friction: The rubbing and pressure caused by a mask can disrupt the skin’s barrier. When you exacerbate that with sweat or moisture from breathing, the skin can become vulnerable to irritation.

So we have itchy and oily skin, irritation and pesky pimples, all frustrating results of our new mask-wearing normal. But masks are essential! So what can we do? Find ways to mitigate the damage—it just takes a little TLC.

Tips for Keeping Your Skin Healthy While Wearing a Mask

Wash Your Face 

First things first: Cleanse your skin. If possible, lightly cleanse immediately before and after wearing a mask. At the very least, wash your face in the morning, once after wearing your mask, and then at night. Since you’ll be cleansing often, make sure to use a facial cleanser that is gentle, preferably cream-based and can effectively remove dirt and oil without disrupting the skin’s barrier (We like the SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser.)

If you have acne-prone skin, prevent pimples with a salicylic acid-based face wash that will help prevent pores from clogging and breakouts from happening. Use it once or twice a day. We like the SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel.

And pay attention to your skin. If you notice tightness or excessive dryness, tone the cleansing back and allow your skin to breathe.

Lubricate Your Skin (Moisturize Heavily!) 

This is especially important for health care workers. Heavier moisturizers will aid in creating a protective barrier between the mask and your face to reduce friction. Apply a ceramide-based face cream (we recommend the SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Retore) around the areas where the face covering will touch, about 30 minutes before putting it on. 

This will also helping to diminish any chafing. If you’re experiencing excessive itching or an eczema-type rash, call us, and we’ll be happy to walk you through steps to treat inflamed skin. 

Don’t Forget the SPF 

A mask will not prevent you from UVA or UVB rays, so don’t skip this step! We love SkinMedica’s Total Defense + Repair SPF 34. And anyway, who wants a mask tan? 

Consider Going Makeup-Free 

Whenever possible, avoid makeup under your mask, which can too easily become an irritant, blocking pores and causing congestion. If you want to throw a bit of makeup on for a sense of normalcy, go foundation-free under the mask and let the lower half of your face breathe. 

Choose the Right Mask 

Prioritize material quality and breathability. Multiple layers of tightly woven, yet breathable fabric will be effective. (A quick test recommended by Iahn Gonsenhauser to NBC News: hold the mask up to the sky. If you can see the sunlight through the fabric, it’s not woven tightly enough).

For your skin’s sake, choose a lighter, natural cotton instead of synthetic fabrics.

Wash Your Mask Regularly

Ideally, reusable masks are washed every day, as lotions, makeup and allergens can build up on the mask (this is especially important if you’re sensitive during allergy season as pollen and environmental irritants can stay on the fabric).

If possible, buy a few, wear one per day and wash at the end of the week with a sensitive skin detergent. 

Exfoliate Once a Week

Use a physical exfoliant like a facial scrub once a week to really remove the dead skin and debris from the top layer of your skin. You can also exfoliate with chemical peels or beta alpha hydroxy pads, chemicals that dissolve the top layer of dead skin cells. Learn how to properly exfoliate your skin here.

When worn tightly enough, most cloth masks will help reduce transmission of the coronavirus to others by blocking large droplets from coughing or speaking. For more information on how to safely and properly wear a non-medical mask, check out WHO’s recommendations.