As we do our best to stay protected during Covid-19, some of us may find ourselves developing skin issues from continuously wearing a face mask. If you’re one of those developing acne from your face mask, La Roche-Posay has some answers (and preventive tips) for you…

Why Face Masks Cause Acne

According to skin experts, face masks create a pressurised seal around the nose and mouth so that air doesn’t escape the area.

With little room for air circulation and our hot Malaysian climate, humidity around the nose and mouth area increases and our sebaceous glands start producing more sebum.

Our pores become oversaturated with excess sebum and our skin becomes an oily, fertile farmland for acne, pimples and whiteheads.

So, how do we fix this?

It’s possible to prevent breakouts by considering the type of mask we wear and by adding some mindful changes to our skincare routine.

La Roche-Posay’s Covid-19 Acne Skincare Tips

La Roche-Posay has been pioneering dermatology since its creation in 1975. The brand works in close partnership with leading dermatologists to combat various skin pathologies like acne.

Today, they share with us their best tips on how to care for skin during this pandemic…

First and foremost, know your mask…

La Roche-Posay dermatologists recommend using a soft-textured mask that doesn’t collect dirt or oil in the fabric.

The common blue masks we use are best at that job. However, these masks can rub against the skin after prolonged use and this can irritate acne-riddled skin. Countering this is easy. Just apply an extra layer of moisturiser as a buffer from the friction.

Cloth masks are okay choices because they create less friction on the skin. However, they require frequent (and thorough) washing after use. The gentlest are silk masks but let’s be real; these are hard to source. If you prefer Make sure your cloth masks are washed every 1-2 days.

Now, before the mask goes on…

#1 Cleanse

Keeping clean is the most important thing you can do to prevent breakouts. Choose a gel cleanser that respects your skin’s pH balance so that your skill will be dirt and bacteria-free without dryness.

La Roche-Posay recommends Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel
Why? It has an effective pH-balanced formula that is friendly on skin. It is proven to reduce acne, blemishes, blackheads and controls shine. Soap, paraben, alcohol and oil free. Non-comedogenic.

#2 Tone with zinc sulphate

A zinc sulphate-infused toner will help regulate the overproduction of sebum and also minimise pores. This prevents clogging and the onset of whiteheads and large comedones.

La Roche-Posay recommends: Serozinc

Why? This oil blotting toning mist is infused with Zinc Sulphate. It controls sebum production, soothes the skin and tighten pores.

#3 Moisturise

The skin’s moisture barrier is responsible for keeping essential nutrients in and dirt out. A good moisturiser enforces this layer, making it a necessary step for treating face mask acne.

La Roche-Posay recommends: Effaclar Mat (For Normal to Oily Skin)

Why? This is a mattifying, non-comedogenic moisturizer that controls shine and sebum production. Great for wearing during the days it keeps skin looking matte even during humid climates.

After the mask comes off…

#1 Soothe

Skin, especially acne-prone skin, can bear marks of irritation and inflammation after a day of prolonged mask use. Experts at La Roche-Posay recommend giving your skin some soothing first-aid at night to help it take on the next day better.

La Roche-Posay recommends: Effaclar K+ (For Oily Skin)

Why? This is a soothing moisturizer is infused with Salicylic acid and its anti-oxidation + anti-sebum lasts for for 8 hours which is great for routine.

#2 Boost with moisturizer or serums

Give your skin a better fighting chance by packing it with extra hydration, nutrients and soothing assistance after the mask comes off.

La Roche-Posay recommends: Effaclar Duo+ (For Acne Prone Skin)

Why? This is an anti-acne moisturizer with salicylic acid and LHA. Visible results from just 12 hours. Eliminates blemishes, imperfections and unclogs blocked pores. Non-comedogenic.

If you’re interested in La Roche-Posay’s anti-acne products, you might want to check out the La Roche-Posay x Shopee “Acne Fighters Super Brand Day”!

La Roche-Posay and Shopee are coming together to bring you a 3 day beauty sale from 9th to 11th July 2020.

Bust acne together with great discounts and offers from La Roche-Posay. Available only on Shopee!

More information about La Roche-Posay’s anti-acne Effaclar Range (https://shopee.com.my/shop/216926703/search?page=0&shopCollection=22043230)

La Roche-Posay’s Facebook Page.