Protecting yourself with personal protective equipment (PPE) including face masks is important, however, it can be hard on your skin and may be having some unintended consequences and less than desirable side effects to your skin.  We can help you with some important skin self-care tips that can create a new calm and help your skin feel normal again.   

Below is some information from one of our spa skincare partners, Dr. Carl R. Thornfeldt, the Founder and CEO of Epionce. He shares information on what can happen to the skin during mask use, as well as some regime suggestions to keep your skin healthy and happy. We’ve also shared some easy helpful tips that can help keep your skin clear and blemish free.

•  The enclosed area of the mask against our skin produces a microenvironment of warm moisture. This super-hydrates the outer layer of the skin, dilates pores, oil and sweat glands and can disrupt the microbiome (microorganism community) – all compromising skin barrier function. These factors also increase local inflammation.

• Folliculitis (inflammation of one or more hair follicles) due to the yeast and bacteria build up.

• Chronic skin conditions such as rosacea, acne, heat rash, seborrheic and atopic dermatitis can also flare due to the disrupted microenvironment on the skin, as well as due to increased stress.

• There is a risk of developing irritant and allergic contact dermatitis to mask material.

• Chafing and irritation due to the mask edges continually rubbing in specific areas of the skin.

Daily Regimen Suggestion

Start by cleansing with Lytic Gel Cleanser or Purifying Wash for an anti-microbial, deep cleaning effect. Follow with the application of Lytic Plus Tx or Lytic Sport Tx for anti-inflammatory, keratolytic and anti-microbial benefits. Then, apply Renewal Lite Facial Lotion twice daily to help repair and restore the damaged skin barrier.  

To Calm Chafing + Irritation

Renewal Calming Cream and Medical Barrier Cream contain optimal levels of cholesterol and ceramides to repair the damaged barrier. Apply as needed to affected areas. Enriched Firming Mask is also beneficial and will reduce redness, calm irritation and boost hydration and can be left on overnight for enhanced results. 

 Some other important tips to remember to help prevent skin problems and keep you blemish free are:

1) Apply moisturizer before and after wearing your mask, as well as protection for your lips.

2) Try avoiding makeup when wearing your mask to avoid clogging pores.

3) Try different masks if necessary that do not irritate your skin or behind your ears. Some synthetic fabrics can be irritating to the skin.

4) If you are using a fabric mask, wash it regularly to remove oils and skin cells that collect inside your mask.

5) Ask for help from your dermatologist or skin specialist if you develop or have a skin concern.

We hope you find benefit from this information and suggestions.  As the skin can be affected by stress and change in our environment, it’s important to stay positive and remember that together, we are stronger and we will get through this time and still feel beautiful on the inside and outside.

Epionce has made it easy to try these regime suggestions with online ordering using Milano Day Spa’s Professional Code, plus you receive free shipping!  So just go to www.epionce.com and shop with this code: 20160512.  If you have any questions, regarding information in this blog or about in spa services that can help your skin, please feel free to call us at 708.246.9200.

Have a happy & healthy day!

Michelle