How to care for your skin after wearing a face mask all day

Wearing a face mask when we go outside has become the new normal. This is a precautionary measure which we’ve been advised to adhere to so as to protect us from coronavirus and/or reduce chances of spreading the virus if we’re ill (although, if you’re sick, you should be staying indoors).

Whenever I venture outside and wear my mask for as little as 10 minutes, as soon as I remove it, I’m left with skin that feels upset from the constant rubbing. This left me wondering how those who have to wear the mask all day feel. How do they deal with the friction and sweating? 

If you’re wondering how to care for your skin even as you wear your mask all day, every day, read on.

1. Cleanse your skin

You need to clean your skin as soon as you remove your face mask. Opt for a gentle cleanser that will not aggravate your skin further. Health.com recommends using a cleanser that will not strip the moisture from your skin. While cleansing, use lukewarm rather than hot water since lukewarm water helps to protect the skin barrier.

2. Moisturize

Because your face mask is constantly rubbing against your skin, you’re bound to suffer from dry patches and friction burn. A good moisturizer will help replenish any lost moisture, soothe skin irritation and replenish the skin barrier.

3. Pay particular attention to irritated skin

For those areas where the skin is more irritated than others, health.com recommends products that will further repair the skin barrier e.g. petroleum jelly. Apply this on top of your moisturiser to help your skin to heal. You can also apply this just before wearing your mask.

4. Clean your face mask frequently

Dirt caused by the accumulation of oils, dust and sweat can clog your pores resulting in break outs. Even as you cleanse your skin at the end of the day, to reap maximum benefits, ensure that you clean your face mask after each use.  ?