With the consistency of donning protective masks, mask acne has become a trending topic. The world has already coined the term as “maskne” (a combination of the word “mask” and “acne“. My personal struggle with maskne has been an uphill battle since March 2020. As a social worker, I wear masks on a daily basis, sometimes hours upon hours. I started to notice that my breakouts became more centralized around the areas where my mask normally rests – around my both sides of my cheeks, my lower chin/jawline and between my nose and lips.
At first, I did pick my skin. I thought that I needed to pop the pimples, in order for them to heal quicker; however, after enduring a large amount of scarring, my mind quickly changed and I was also introduced to a new set of problems – dark spots. Afterwards, I started to find myself engaged in more extensive research about products that I believed would be beneficial for the treatment and healing of my skin’s inflammation. Finally, I established an effective maskne routine that helped maintain my skin’s clarity while also protecting it’s overall radiance.
Keep reading to discover my go-to affordable, products that are a sure-fire way to combat your own beef with maskne!
Cleansers
CeraVe Foaming Face Cleanser, $15.99
I use the CeraVe Foaming Face Cleanser about two to three times a week. It’s ideal for cleansing the skin while also removing excess oil that can cause acne. In addition to its affordable price, this cleanser also includes three essential ceramides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.
100% Organic Raw African black soap, $6.00
My holy grail! The soap is made from the ash of plants like cocoa pods, palm tree leaves, and plantains. Pure African Black Soap is popular for relieving acne, removing blemishes, deep cleansing pores and rejuvenating the skin.
Acne Spot Treatments
Peace Out Acne Healing Dots (20 count), $19.00
Whenever you spot an up-and-coming pimple, just place one of these medicated dots over the raised area. Not only are you protecting your skin from scarring, but the active ingredients (such as salicylic acid, vitamin A and aloe vera), help diminish inflammation overnight.
Peace Out Acne Serum, $34.00
Bonus tip: Use the Peace Out Acne Serum in combination with the Peace Out Acne Healing Dots for a double-packed defense against current and future blemishes. I even wear the serum underneath my mask for added prevention.
Dark Spot Treatments
Cocokind Turmeric Mask Stick, $8.99
Dark spots beware! There is no chance in sticking around with the Cocokind Turmeric Mask Stick. This organic gem contains turmeric, ginger and tea tree oil which help to treat acne, calm the skin and also fades scarring. Keep in mind that this treatment does stain easily.
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $14.99
Sunscreen is one of the staples of my skincare routine. Aside from harmful UV protection, the Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is also top of the line when it comes to improving tone, texture, dullness and blotchiness.
Honorable Mention
Lush Cosmetics Mask of Magnaminty, $14.00-$30.00
Perfect for an evening of self-care and even more perfect as an acne spot treatment! This minty clay mask soothes, calms and gently exfoliates skin with the combination of honey, peppermint oil, ground aduki beans and vanilla absolute.
In addition to the treatments and formulas listed above, I also infuse drinking plenty of water into my daily routine. Effectively hydrating is crucial for flushing out toxins, reducing inflammation, promoting elasticity and even maintaining adequate levels of moisturization. Alkaline water is usually a fave for me, due to it’s function of of balancing pH levels within the body. Typically, I set my daily water intake goal at about four to five 16-ounce water bottles/day.
Whew, there ya have it! In the meantime, do you have any other tips for avoiding maskne? If so, drop them down below along with any other products you believe could be beneficial. I’d love to hear your input – we’re in this together!
Photo Credits: Peace Out Acne Healing Dots via Popsugar, Peace Out Acne Serum via The Coveteur, Cocokind Turmeric Mask Stick via Snazzish, Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 via Aveeno, CeraVe Foaming Face Cleanser via Cosmetics Paragon, African Black Soap via A Taste of Africa, Lush Cosmetics Mask of Magnaminty via JP Cosme, and Alkaline 88 Water via BevNet. I do not own the rights to the product photographs featured in the blog post.
ESMESHA CAMPBELL - Lifestyle, Fashion Culture, and Beauty 