FIVE skincare tips to help you care for your skin while wearing masks
Wearing a face covering is part of daily life at the moment. When worn for extended periods every day can this lead to skin problems like dry, irritated skin or maskne (maskne definition: acne caused by regularly wearing facial masks).
Tip number 1 - Cleansing
Cleansing every night is more important than ever if you’ve been wearing a mask for an extended period throughout the day. Masks can trap moisture, sweat, oil and dirt close to our skin which can block pores and lead to breakouts. Try not to use harsh cleansers that strip the skin of its own natural oils and disrupt your skin’s barrier function - this can make your skin dry and sensitive and more prone to irritation and breakouts. An oil based cleanser like our cleansing balm is perfect as the cleansing oils attract dirt and sebum from the skin, while the butters and plant oils moisturise and soften the skin.
Tip number 2 - Use a weekly clay face mask
Don’t underestimate the benefits of a clay face mask! They are perfect for a deep cleanse which is really beneficial after wearing a mask all week. Clay also exfoliates your skin, gently lifting off dead skin cells which may block pores and lead to breakouts. This is such a great way to exfoliate, as it doesn’t involve scrubbing your skin but will certainly leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. We have four clay face masks for different skin types. Our masks also contain botanicals like Aloe Vera which are wonderfully soothing on the skin.
Tip number 3 - Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise
Dry skin is a common face mask problem. Our face oil is perfect for using at night after cleansing. The blend of plant oils are highly moisturising and full of vitamins and antioxidants that protect and repair the skin overnight. The oils also have natural anti-inflammatory properties which can help soothe redness and irritation. Although we don’t normally advise that it’s necessary to use our face oil in the day, if you are wearing a mask it could be helpful to add our face oil to your morning routine too. Mix a drop or two to your moisturiser for an extra moisture boost or apply to your skin after your moisturiser, as a final step. Our face oil contains plant oils that form a thin layer on the skin, protecting against moisture loss and helping to prevent chafing from the mask. Oh, and don’t forget to drink plenty of water throughout to keep your skin hydrated from within.
Tip number 4 - Avoid wearing make-up (other than eye make-up)
Beneath a mask make-up is more likely to block your pores and cause breakouts so try to avoid using concealers and foundations if possible. While wearing a mask your eyes are what people focus on so concentrate on your eye-make up instead 😉
Tip number 5 - Apply lip balm
Wearing a face mask can make your lips feel dry and chapped. Apply a lip balm to your lips before you put your mask on and before bed. A natural lip balm that contains oils and butters will nourish and moisturise your lips, keeping them soft and forming a protective barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss.