Let’s face it. Due to COVID-19, we’ll probably be wearing face masks for quite some time (please wear your damn masks). They finally made us disposable masks in black. We got the chic mask chains. Silk masks are a thing. But maskne is still plaguing us. According to Dr. Caroline Robinson, dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology in Chicago, “Maskne describes a phenomena of acne related to friction, sweat/oil trapping, bacteria, occlusion and heat related to mask wearing. Prior to the pandemic, this condition was better known as acne mechanica and was mostly seen in athletes or people with occupations that required them to wear a helmet or strap on their faces for long periods of time.”
Below are the maskne-fighting skincare products we’ve personally tried and keep in our skincare arsenal to kick maskne’s a*s consistently.
The Arsenal
01
Dr. Dennis Gross | DRx Blemish Solutions™ Acne Eliminating Gel
$40
We won’t lie. This lil’ gel literally smells like relaxer. But its clean formula and quick results make it worth the stench. Used twice a day, maskne won’t stand a chance.
02
iNNBEAUTY PROJECT | Pimple Paste
$15
Hold the toothpaste! Your Auntie was wrong about that toothpaste-on-a-pimple thing. This Pimple Paste is 100% ‘bout that life.
03
Peter Thomas Roth | Therapeutic Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask
$52
When you feel the maskne brewing, this is what you should reach for. This mask is oily skin’s (and a pimple’s) best friend.
04
EVENPRIME | Blemish Patch
$10
The flyest way to mask the most unsightly blemishes, these purple pimple patches serve as a protective barrier against further bacteria. The star shape is a bonus (and conversation starter)!