Could I have ever imagined writing this post a year ago? Absolutely not! But here we are. I know everyone is probably sick of talking about the craziness of this past year, so let’s just accept the place we’re in right now and talk about skincare. Wearing a mask frequently can cause “maskne,” acne that is caused because the mask traps dirt and oil in pores, so here are my tips for avoiding this new dilemma!

1. Dermatolgoist Jessica Wu suggests wearing masks made out of natural fibers, such as cotton, bamboo, or natural silk to reduce the likelihood of irritation. Wu advises against wearing any coverings that might have synthetic fibers, like polyester or spandex, as well as wool. “I’ve seen people running around with these wool neck gaiters and wraps they’d wear skiing,” she told me. “Don’t wear that. Many synthetic fabric blends are treated with chemicals that can irritate the skin, and they don’t tend to be breathable.”

2. Stay away from foundation, it’s a sure way to clog pores and lead to breakouts. If you must wear foundation, stick to lightweight formulas and apply only on exposed areas. This will help your bottle of foundation last longer too - it’s a win win situation!

3. When your mask comes off, apply some serious moisture to prevent irritation and breakouts. Dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusaloi recommends layering thick moisturizers like Aquaphor or Vaseline on top of your face cream. Get ready for smooth skin!

4. Treat yourself to a hydrating and cleansing facial, you deserve it. At UPKEEP we offer our signature UPKEEP Facial, which is a facial completely specialized for your skin type. Acne prone skin? We got you. Dry skin? We got you! And “maskne” problems? We. Got. You. Come on in and experience it for yourself. The top (and bottom) half of your face will thank you.

and that’s how you UPKEEP,

clair