According to recent reports, most of us could still wear protective face masks in 2021, even once the vaccine is ready. Although pharma companies and some governments started distributing the vaccine, chances are it won’t be available for everyone. This is largely because it will take some time before the COVID-19 vaccine will roll out. Therefore, life with masks may resume for another 12 months, and I believe we will have a range of products to make wearing masks easier and more practical.
The most frequently asked questions are:
- What to look for in face masks?
- Where to find the best face masks?
- What are the best face masks for sensitive skin and acne?
- Maskne: How to prevent mask acne
- How to safely clean face masks?
- How to store a face mask?
What to look for in a protective face mask?
The CDC recommends that face masks have the following features:
- A snug fit that sits gently against the face and doesn’t gap on the sides
- Two or more layers of cloth
- Allow for breathing without restraint
- The ability to be cleaned and machine dried without damage or change to the form
Where to find the best protective face masks?
Uniqlo AIRism face mask is a high-performance 3-tier design which includes a layer of AIRism moisture absorbing fabric and block UV rays, and a built-in filter.
Herschel classic fitted face mask is also made with three breathable layers featuring a soft liner and a center sleeve that fits a standard air filter. The mask fits close to the face with an adjustable lightweight nose bridge and side adjustment tabs.
Clarev Bisous masks are made from surplus fabric and lined in the signature chambray material. They come with easily adjustable straps. However, the masks don’t have metal wire to fit across the nose or filters.
Vida protective mask (for sensitive skin) is made of 2 layers of 100% cotton, easily adapts to different sizes with adjustable straps and features an integrated metal nose-piece for a snug fit. Each mask comes with a 5-layered PM2.5 activated carbon filter with two layers of melt blown polypropylene. Available in Regular, Kids and X-Large.
Tory Burch face mask is suitable for small faces. They have adjustable ear loops and a contoured nose piece to fit your face. The two-layer fabric is super soft and moisture-locking. Plus, it has an interior pocket that fits a filter (not included).
What are the best protective face masks for sensitive skin and acne?
People with sensitive skin can experience breakouts and irritations, such as Rosacea, at the slightest change in routine. I’ve had breakouts around the chin area and tenderness around my nose, which I suppose are a result of friction with mask fabric. To manage this problem, I’ve been giving my skin extra daily TLC and have shared my routine tips in the Maskne section below.
If you want a face mask designed for sensitive skin, you should consider masks made with anti-microbial, anti-viral silver, and copper particles. Such fabrics work to zap bacterial and reduce the risk of breakouts. Or you may opt for masks made with natural silk.
What is “maskne”?
Maskne is a term used to describe various skin conditions associated with wearing a face mask. It can include:
- Acne.
- Rosacea.
- Contact dermatitis.
- Folliculitis.
What causes Maskne?
Clogged pores cause Maskne. Since we already have oil, bacteria, and dead cells on our skin, wearing a mask causes more build-up of these substances, which blocks the skin. Another reason could be friction. In this case, the face mask can rub against your skin leading to irritation. A third reason can be an allergic reaction to the material in the mask that is sometimes pretreated with chemicals or feel rough on your skin. Likewise, scented detergents may cause skin irritation.
How to treat Maskne
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser: If you have sensitive skin, you should follow a skincare routine that includes washing your face regularly with a mild cleanser. I’ve been using Vichy Anti-Acne facial cleanser for years to treat breakouts and irritation. It’s one of the gentlest cleansers on the market recommended by dermatologists.
Use non-comedogenic creams that won’t clog your pores. And if you experience some skin inflammation, apply a mild cortisone cream to the area with a moisturizer that contains ceramides to help relieve itching and irritation. You may want to consult with your doctor or pharmacist for a proper prescription. I’ve been using my high-frequency Pure NuDerma every two days to maintain clear skin.
Go easy on makeup, or even better, skip the makeup while you’re treating Maskne. Beauty products such as foundation, concealer, and blush can clog your pores and lengthen healing.
Never reuse a cloth mask without first washing it. And always clean cloth masks after EACH use. Use unscented, hypoallergenic laundry detergent, then let it dry thoroughly in a clean area.
Dermatologists recommend applying a topical antibiotic cream or gel on your skin before putting on a face mask to prevent bacteria build-up that causes acne.
Throw away disposable masks after wearing them. Consider keeping several face masks on hand in case you need a fresh one.
Remove or change your mask when you can practice physical distancing. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends removing your mask for 15 minutes every 4 hours to give your skin a break.
How to safely wash your mask
Centers For Disease Control & Prevention recommends washing cloth face mask after every use. If you have a disposable face mask, they recommend throwing it away after wearing it once. You can wash your masks by hand or use a washing machine with an unscented laundry detergent. If you prefer to use a washing machine, consider putting the masks in a mesh laundry bag before placing them in the machine. By doing so, you protect the fabric from getting tangled and ultimately damaging the mask.
You can choose to dry your masks entirely in a warm or hot dryer. Or you can hang your mask in direct sunlight to dry completely. If that’s not possible, hang it in a dry clean area and make sure it dries completely before wearing it again.
How to store protective face masks
Store wet or dirty masks in a plastic bag
Always have two separate pouches or bags to store your masks, one for dirty and wet masks and the other is for clean masks. And make sure to clean dirty masks as soon as you can and hang them to dry thoroughly to avoid mold.
Modern Metal Face Mask Rack
This rack is perfect for air drying face mask and keeping them handy by the door.
Best rated UV face sanitizers
Washing masks every day is a drag! As a mom, I make sure my family wears fresh mask so I hand clean them every day because it doesn’t make sense to run a washing machine just for masks. These UV sanitizers will take care of this chores and will even motivate your kids to sanitize their masks independently.
Must have mask accessories
The web is flooded with unique and useful mask accessories such as straps, organizers, ear savers and even natural refreshing spray. Take a look at our favourite picks from small businesses and craft experts.
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4 comments
Hi Elle,
This is such an informative article! I didn’t realize there are so many different types of masks. I have sensitive skin so this is helpful for me.
All the best,
My
Great resource! It’s safe to say masks will be part of life for a while still for sure.
Excellent And very informative post. I love everything about it. I love the suggestions as well, will be using this post to purchase some masks 🤗. Thanks for this guide!
Glad you found it useful.