Most of us have been wearing masks in some capacity to help protect ourselves and others during this global pandemic. While wearing a mask to the store once or twice a month likely isn’t causing damage to your skin, there are people in the medical and essential services field who are wearing masks 8 to 12 hours a day and their skin is taking a toll.
Repetitive friction and limited airflow can cause a number of issues to the skin. Here we will explore how skincare products can help to treat these problems.
Chaffing or blistering of the skin:
N95 and medical-grade masks are designed to keep all outside air away from the nose and mouth. This means a snug fit of the mask against the face which can cause chaffing, blistering, and rawness to the skin. This type of damage to the skin is not only painful but can also cause long-term scarring. Here we recommend keeping the skin clean and treated with healing ingredients when the mask is off.
Vivier HEXAM® is a gentle, antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory cleanser that works well to clean compromised skin. Gently washing the affected area once or twice daily with lukewarm water and patting dry can help to prevent infection and promote healing.
In addition to keeping the area clean, you should use a moisturizing cream such as Vivier LEXXEL® . This will help alleviate and protect against chapping, cracking and roughness, while also relieving itching due to dryness. Applying a thin layer of LEXXEL® whenever the mask is off and overnight during sleep will help to soothe, calm and repair the area. Should the irritation caused by the mask become unbearable, there are bandages available at your local pharmacy designed for sensitive skin that may be worn as a barrier between the skin and the mask.
Avoid active ingredients like retinols, vitamin C, acids, and exfoliants until the skin has healed.
Congested pores and breakouts:
Trapping our skin in the confined space of a mask can increase the amount of impurities and oils that get trapped under the skin. If you’re noticing new breakouts or black heads caused by wearing a mask regularly, there are a few ingredients to incorporate into your routine to help keep the skin clear.
Salicylic acid is a gold-standard ingredient when it comes to keeping pores clean and skin smooth. Switching to Vivier Medicated Wash will help clean out the buildup of impurities in the skin as it features 2% Salicylic acid. Using Medicated Wash just once or twice daily will improve breakouts and work to clear congested pores.
What’s better than salicylic acid for congested skin? Salicylic acid TWICE! While Medicated Wash is a great first step to keeping pores and skin clear, for additional targeted treatment of blackheads and breakouts, try using Vivier AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cream. This powerhouse product packs some amazing ingredients: Salicylic acid for clear pores, alpha-hydroxy acids for a smooth, youthful complexion, Vitamin C and Vitamin E for antioxidant and anti-aging support, and peptides which play a key role in collagen production. This product is a 3-in-1 exfoliating, brightening, anti-aging lotion that creates clear, glowing skin. Apply morning and night after serums but before other creams.
Dry and dull skin:
Restricting airflow and trapping stale, oxygen-poor air against our skin can cause a general dry, dullness to the skin. Our skin, like the rest of our organs, performs better and is healthier when it’s hydrated. One way to hydrate the skin is from the inside out by drinking plenty of water. We can also boost skin’s hydration from the outside in by incorporating hyaluronic acid. Vivier Ulitmage™ is a revolutionary, medical-grade hyaluronic acid gel that delivers hydration to our skin, allowing the skin to function at its best. Ultimage™ also features neuropeptides, which smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Applied once or twice daily after serums but before lotions will improve the look, appearance, and health of the skin.
Stay safe, stay healthy.
By Claire Ashley
A Vivier Skin Care Expert.
