15 Products To Help Combat "Maskne," According To A Dermatologist

When it comes to acne, benzoyl peroxide is usually the way to go, due to its effects against acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and opening up pores. “I call that a triple threat!" Dr. Allawh says. She recommends the PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash in the mornings and/or evenings.

To treat any maskne that you've already gotten, Dr. Allawh suggests using Neutrogena On-The-Spot Acne Treatment, as the benzoyl peroxide within the cream will fight acne.

Replenix Acne Solution BPO Acne Gel is another benzoyl peroxide product that Dr. Allawh suggests to use to fight already-existing acne. "Remember to wash the BPO wash off completely as it may bleach towels, sheets and clothing... nobody wants that!" she says.

Along with benzoyl peroxide washes, Dr. Allawh suggests using anti-bacterial washes as well. "I recommend gentle cleansers containing a salicylic acid-based cleanser," she says. "Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid ... it dissolves the excess dirt, oily residue, and dead skin cells, which can build up in pores and are responsible for acne breakouts." She recommends the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, which is a salicylic, anti-bacterial wash.

The CeraVe Renewing SA Face Cleanser is another salicylic acid-based product that Dr. Allawh recommends for fighting maskne. The anti-bacterial qualities of the wash will help keep your skin clean after wearing your mask all day long.

"Those with dry, sensitive skin may be concerned about drying out their skin even more with this frequent washing," Dr. Allawh says. "Over drying our skin may cause the oil-producing glands in our skin to work overtime and produce even more oil ... I strongly recommend using an oil-free facial moisturizer that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t cause you to break out." She recommends Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream. It's specifically for dry skin so it'll help keep your skin hydrated.

"For those who are experiencing more comedonal acne (i.e. black heads and white heads), a topical retinol at bedtime is recommended," Dr. Allawh says. "It is important to find a topical retinol that is lightweight, non-greasy that provides hydration with the benefits of a pure retinol." For this, she recommends the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil.

CeraVe Renewing Retinol Serum is another retinol product Dr. Allawh recommends. "Retinol creams are excellent in the treatment of acne with the caveat that they can be drying," she says. "In general, I recommend starting 2-3 times weekly with a pea-sized amount to the entire face and titrating up to nightly."

If you're ever pressed for time, Dr. Allawh suggests using a quick facial towelette to wipe your face after taking your mask off. "After removing the mask, using a gentle cleansing wipe ... and/or washing your face with a gentle facial cleanser ... are helpful ways to remove the excess oil, debris, sweat and dirt from your face," she says. Just remember to wash properly if you use the face wipe.

A pimple paste is exactly what you think it is — a thick cream that you put on a blemish and leave overnight to help treat it. This one uses willow bark, a natural alternative to salicylic acid, to clear pores and treat already existing acne. It is also made of clay and sulfur to absorb excess oil and sebum to prevent future breakouts.

Maskne occurs because the mask causes friction against the skin and breaks down the protective barrier against humidity, dirt, and oil. This mist will help fortify that barrier and help treat any blemishes that come from those masks using witch hazel, willow bark, tea tree, and glycerin.

The beauty (pun very much intended) of an acne patch is that you can hide your blemish while also treating it at the same time. Hydrocolloid — a plant-based gel — absorbs oil and pus, and then encases it so that the pimple clears up quicker. As an added bonus, you can wear it under your mask as a barrier to prevent further irritation.

While great for treating maskne, salicylic acid can be drying. This cleanser gives you the benefits of the powerful acne-fighting ingredient while also moisturizing your skin with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. There’s also cucumber and cica to protect the skin from environmental aggressors and help reduce redness.

Stop maskne breakouts before they get bad. This spray helps treat blemishes in their early stages thanks to its alpha hydroxy- (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliants and prebiotic sugar. Together, they work to reduce surface bacteria and create an ecosystem where acne-forming bacteria won’t be able to grow.

Treat your skin at night with a different kind of mask. This one contains lactic acid for hydration and stimulation of collagen production, glycolic acid for exfoliation, and salicylic acid to unclog pores.

Experts:

Dr. Rina Allawh, MD, board-certified dermatologist