Over the last several months, we have (mostly) adjusted to the new reality of wearing protective face masks in public. We keep masks on-hand in our cars, invest in masks that match our personal styles, and more. Our skincare routines should be no exception.

If you have noticed acne breakouts around your nose and mouth recently, you are not alone! “Maskne” is facial skin irritation and breakouts that are caused by wearing a protective mask for long hours every day. The main causes of “maskne” are:

• Continuous friction
• Excessive sebum production by the skin
• Excessive moisture
• Heat
• Bacteria
• Retention of dead cells that aggravate the state of the skin
• Trapped dirt

The combination of these factors will most likely result in a breakout if you don’t take proper precautions. Although rumor has it that “maskne” only happens to people who were not suffering from acne prior to masks, we believe that’s a stretch. “Maskne” is an aggravation of preexisting skin issues due to wearing a protective mask, and as such, the best way to prevent it is by cleansing your skin properly.

Wondering what you can do to keep your skin healthy and free of breakouts, even under a mask? We suggest adopting a skincare routine that incorporates our favorite “maskne” prevention techniques! Our experts want to help you feel the best about your skin WHILE staying protected from COVID.

Luxe’s “Maskne” Prevention Skincare Routine

MORNING

Morning routines are all about protection from the sun, pollution, and the elements. First thing after you wake up, start by splashing your face with warm water, and then follow the steps below:

• Cleanse with a gentle face wash or cleanser — this can help freshen the skin for the new day, removing sweat and debris from the night and preparing the skin for other products.
• Exfoliate (as recommended by your esthetician) to remove dirt and other pollutants.
• Apply toner. This is a lotion or wash designed to cleanse the skin and shrink the appearance of pores. A toner’s job is meant to gently refresh your skin without stripping it of its natural moisture.
• Moisturize and wear SPF to prevent irritation, sun damage, and uneven tan lines on the face. In some cases, you can add a special gel instead of cream to avoid oily skin.
• Wear a CLEAN face mask.

NIGHT

Nighttime routines are meant to cleanse the face of all the irritating pollutants it may have come into contact with during the day. When you go to bed with clean skin, it can repair itself while you sleep so you wake up with a fresh, bright face! Follow the steps below:

• Cleanse — again! This helps rid your face of dirt, dead skin cells, and pollution from the day. They also dissolve any excess oil, makeup, and grime from your face.
• Moisturize again, too! Make sure you choose a lotion without SPF. Nighttime lotions tend to be thicker and more hydrating than daytime lotions, in order to help repair the skin while you sleep.
• Go to sleep on a CLEAN pillowcase.

Want to go a step further? We recommend incorporating the following into your routine for an extra beauty boost:

• Products with active ingredients (AHAs, BHAs, etc.), which dissolve dead cells and brighten skin.

• Retinoids, which keep every cell functioning optimally for skin health.
• Antioxidants, which neutralize free radical damage and keep our skin healthy.

**Tip: Your skin loves to be spoiled, so, as we said above, make sure your face mask is clean and fresh. Same goes for your pillowcase. Furthermore, we suggest designating a specific soft towel to be used EXCLUSIVELY on your face.