Skin care tips for wearing a face mask

Whether you are on the front lines or in line at the grocery store, face masks have become an essential accessory.

And while they’re important to help keep bacteria and germs contained, they can also cause the skin underneath to, well, freak out.

Face masks can create limited air flow, pressure on skin and increased moisture and humidity. Those add up to prime conditions for skin irritation, acne and added oiliness.

The good news is you don’t need to sacrifice your skin for the sake of your health. We’ve got some skin-saving tips to prevent and treat issues so you can keep your confidence up when the mask comes down.

Keep up on your daily skincare routine

Cleansing and nourishing skin morning and night is more important than ever to help maintain your skin’s natural barrier and ability to repair itself.

Always use a gentle cleanser to remove buildup and debris. If you have oily and acne-prone skin, try Artistry Studio™ Glow Boss Cleanser + Exfoliator followed by Artistry Studio™ Rosé All Day Anti-Acne Toner + Pore Refresher with salicylic acid. Also, add an intense moisturizer at night like Artistry Youth™ Xtend™ Enriching Cream to promote moisture barrier repair and prep for the next day’s abuse.

Adopt pre- and post-mask routines

Hydrated skin is good, but too much moisture immediately before wearing a mask will irritate skin and could cause long-term damage.

Instead, before putting on a mask, reach for a 100% pure vitamin C product to improve and protect the skin barrier without overly hydrating skin’s surface. We recommend Artistry Skin Nutrition™ Vitamin C + HA3 Daily Serum to help strengthen skin’s support while also hydrating deep within skin’s surface.

After removing your mask for the day, be sure to cleanse again and apply a more restorative moisturizer (like you would use in the evening). Try Artistry Studio™ Clean Start Micellar Makeup Remover + Cleanser Wipes for a quick clean during masked outings.

Give skin issues special care

Increased and repeated mask use can cause skin irritation and acne breakouts – especially along the chin and cheeks. And those can turn into areas of hyperpigmentation.

Treat areas of concern with products designed for the job, like Artistry Studio™ Rosé All Day Anti-Acne Toner + Pore Refresher for blemishes and irritation and Artistry Signature Select™ Personalized Serum with the Anti-Spot Amplifier to reduce visible dark spots.

Follow up with a rich moisturizer full of brightening ingredients to keep an even skin tone. We recommend an Artistry Ideal Radiance™ Illuminating Moisturizer. It pairs antioxidants with complexion perfection.

Keep makeup to a bare minimum

Adapt your makeup routine to the new norm. You can do that by skipping makeup under your mask altogether or using an oil-free primer, such as the Artistry Studio™ Shanghai Edition 2 in 1 Perfecting Matte Finish Primer, or hydrating foundation like Artistry Hydra-V™ Sheer Weightless Foundation. It allows your skin to breathe.

You can also swap out a full-on lip color for a hydrating and soothing lip balm, like Artistry Studio™ Pampered Pout Lip Balm + Overnight Mask, which can be used during the day, too. Also, be sure give your face plenty of makeup-free moments to refresh.

Pick your mask wisely

Whether you are buying a mask or making your own, look for material that is breathable with 100% cotton fabric. Synthetic materials tend to hold moisture close to skin and cause more irritation.

And don’t forget to clean your cotton mask regularly by throwing it in the washing machine according to CDC guidelines.

So, for the sake of your skin, the next time you reach for your face mask, try a few of these precautions! Want to learn more about the products mentioned here? Visit Amway.com.