Maskne is a new phenomenon coined in the COVID-19 pandemic to describe the acne experienced around the nose, upper lip and chin area in a response to regularly wearing a mask. Mask-provoked acne is new to the general public, anyway, but has long been experienced by medical and construction workers.
The causes of these pimples, or whiteheads, are two-fold: the first is the physical barrier they provide, which causes pores to become blocked with the dead skin cells we shed all the time, so-called acne mechanica. A bacteria associated with acne, called P. Acnes, causes inflammation in blocked pores and sebaceous (oil-forming) glands, and in addition to the physical friction, masks also provide a warm, moist environment for P. Acnes to grow and multiply, thus further inflaming the spots, and even causing deep spots, called cysts.
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It is important to clean the skin, removing any sweat build-up in the pores of the skin. If your skin type is naturally dry, then using a moisturiser to act as a barrier to prevent friction and irritation.
If your skin type is naturally quite oily, then using a face swipe regularly may help to remove excess moisture and sweat build up and make wearing a face mask for prolonged periods a bit more comfortable.
Yes, you are fit for work if you are suffering from maskne.
Appearance is important to all of us, and skin problems can have a huge effect on our self-esteem and confidence. If you feel your acne is causing you substantial distress and over the counter remedies have not got on top of it, book a routine appointment to discuss with your doctor. They will ask about your acne and examine you, and may suggest prescription medications.
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