maskne hacks

So you've definitely noticed chin acne creeping into 2020 skincare issues?

Ugh, yes! It’s not fun, but somehow I find solace knowing it’s not just me and that if we all share our tips and tricks, we can knock it out quickly! 

What steps are you taking in your skincare routine to deal with the "maskne?"

A few things I am doing that have helped:

I cleanse twice in the evening. I use the same soap, Eminence Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser, and just cleanse a second time to really clean the skin.
I spot treat with Thayers Blemish Stick with Witch Hazel and lemon—I love this stuff! It has been a lifesaver for blemishes.
I do my weekly Alitura Clay Mask, but add a few drops of Lavender, Lemon and Frankinscence essential oils—allgreat for clarity, calming and brightening skin.

Double cleansing is officially a skincare routine thing. What exactly is double cleansing?

Cleanse the first time to remove makeup. Cleanse the second time to remove any excess makeup and clean the pores.

Other than skincare, what else can we do? Guessing you have a hack!

Spray Colloidal Silver on the inside of your mask after you’ve worn it. Colloidal Silver is a natural antibacterial, so I’ve used it inside my worn mask. No studies have been done on this that I can find. However, I feel like it definitely helps cut down on my maskne. 

Is blaming chin acne on stress an old wives' tale? What foods can help?

Chin acne is generally related to hormonal imbalances. Foods that help with hormonal acne include:

Sulfur-rich veggies like kale, broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, onions, Brussels sprouts and cabbages.
Healthy fats: grass-fed/grass-finished butter and ghee, extra-virgin olive oil, walnut oil, flax oil, coconut oil and avocado oil.
Omega 3s for decreasing inflammation: Wild-caught salmon, flax seeds, hemp seeds, and fish oils are great choices. 

How do you know if it's the mask causing blemishes versus hormones?

If you never experienced chin acne before wearing a mask regularly, then you’re probably just experiencing the irritations of the mask and bacteria build-up.

However, if you had chin acne before and now it has spiraled out of control, then you may also have some hormonal imbalances.

Regardless, it’s never a bad idea to add all of these into your diet on the regular. They’re all superfoods and support the body all the time! 

What kind of mask do you wear?

I switched to mainly wearing a silk mask. I immediately found it cut down on the amount of maskne I was experiencing. I’m not sure if it’s because it doesn’t rub as much on my face or the material is just easier on the skin, but I highly recommend one if you can find one! I have a PJ Harlow one, but there are a ton of options out there.