*Sponsored Post*

The National Department of Health (NDoH) recently recommended during their Level 4 restrictions, the use of face masks when in public – and rightfully so, as this is one of the ways, in addition to hand-washing and social distancing, to reduce the transmission of the Coronavirus¹. However, some people may be experiencing breakouts in their skin.

Welcome “Maskne”, the latest and not-so-luxurious term to enter the world of COVID-19. As the name suggests, Maskne, is acne that results from wearing a face mask^2,3 or dermatologically known as acne mechanica. This type of acne is commonly triggered by sweat, friction, and pressure on the skin and causes inflammation, unpleasant red rashes and tiny clusters of pimples around the nose and mouth specifically³. Cetaphil®, a leader in gentle skincare products, shares some tips to help take care of your skin while wearing a mask.

3 cetaphil

Choose a soft and breathable mask

Cloth face masks can now be easily purchased from a variety of places online or home-made. It is recommended to use a mask with three layers, selecting a non-woven (or similar) fabric with strong filtering capability as the middle layer, and the accompanying inner and outer layers for comfort, structure and some additional protection⁴.

It is recommended to wash re-usable masks regularly as they are prone to collect dirt, oils, bacteria, and germs, which may exacerbate skin problems⁵. It should also be noted that the Department of Health has discouraged the public from using the N-95 masks, as these have been reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders¹.

Include a gentle skin cleanser into your skin care routine^3,5

Select a skin cleanser like the Cetaphil^® Gentle Skin Cleanser, a mild, non-irritating, non-drying gentle skin cleanser for even the most sensitive skin. This cleanser can be used without water. So, if you have irritated or sensitive skin, gently swipe a cotton round with the cleanser over your skin.⁶

10 Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser 125ml

Create a skin care barrier by using a moisturiser^3,5

After your daily morning exercise and post cleansing, apply a moisturiser like the Cetaphil® Daily Hydrating Lotion. This lightweight, oil-free moisturiser with Hyaluronic Acid provides instant hydration, maintaining the skins protective barrier, and helps to protect skin from dryness.⁷

11 cetaphil product

Don’t forget your Sun Protection Factor, even in the colder months

Although half of our face is covered by our face masks, it is still important to apply an SPF on a daily basis, as some of the skin is exposed to the harmful sun rays when going for morning walks. Opt for a non-comedogenic and oil-free option as they work to decrease excess oil that can clog pores and lead to acne.

Keep in contact with your dermatologist

If you are concerned about the health of your skin or keep experiencing skin breakouts, keep in contact with your dermatologist. Some dermatologists are offering a Telehealth solution, which is the distribution of health-related services and information via electronic information and telecommunication technologies.

4 dermatologist

Find Cetaphil in South Africa

Available from Dischem, Clicks and leading pharmacies nationwide.

Website: www.cetaphil.co.za

Facebook: www.facebook.com/CetaphilSA

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cetaphil_southafrica

References

https://sacoronavirus.co.za/2020/04/21/use-of-cloth-face-masks-by-members-of-the-general-public-in-south-africa-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/
https://www.montgomery-dermatology.com/post/mask-ne
https://www.health.com/condition/skin-conditions/maskne-mask-acne-mechanica
Recommended Guidelines Fabric Face Masks RSA DTIC
https://www.health.com/condition/infectious-diseases/coronavirus/face-mask-skin-irritation
Galderma Data on file: Cetaphil^® Gentle Skin Cleanser ID CARD 0024 0214.
Galderma Data on file: Cetaphil® Daily Hydrating Lotion ID Card 1407 and Packaging 08/08/19

Full product information on the Cetaphil® range is available from Galderma Laboratories South Africa (Pty) Ltd.,

Co. Reg. No.: 1996/000311/07, PO Box 71150, Bryanston, 2021. Tel.: (011) 706 2339. www.galderma.com. ZA/CET/1295/0520.

Rochelle Friedman

Aesthetic Appointment | Website

Rochelle is the founder and driving force behind Aesthetic Appointment. With a passion for the aesthetics and pro-ageing industry in South Africa, she has been in the aesthetic publishing industry since 2012, dedicated to creating a valuable platform for insights and knowledge, bridging the gap between patients and doctors - delivering reliable, medical-based information. Rochelle firmly believes in the power of a good skincare regimen, especially when started at home, and is committed to educating consumers about the myriad of treatments, procedures, and products available to them.