5 Easy & Most Effective Ways to Stop Maskne

Care, 37, had acne for most of her adult life but masks certainly made it worse.

She spent hundreds on scrubs, clay masks, washes and facials which claimed to be effective at stopping acne.

These products did little to stop the acne. In fact, many of the stronger products made her acne worse.

"As I tried all of these products, my skin became more sensitive and the acne flare ups became worse. As my skin got worse, I used more makeup. It was a vicious cycle … my foundation was causing more clogs but I didn’t want to meet anyone without covering it all up." - Care B.

Maskne: What it is and why it happens

Technically called acne mechanica, maskne is characterized by stubborn pimples on your cheeks, chin and jawline.

They are caused by several factors:

  • The humid air inside your mask breeds bacteria. As bacteria counts increase, your skin gets inflamed.
  • Friction further causes inflammation in your skin. This inflammation closes off pores and traps dead skin inside your pores.
  • Dead skin in your pores forms clogs and clogs become pimples.

Maskne can be prevented at every step with some simple changes in your routine.


In order of priority, here are the five easy tips to help beat maskne:

1. Flush out dead skin buildup

@imcareskincare Individual results may vary

Flushing out dead skin trapped inside the pore is the most effective way to stop maskne.

However, it is hard to reach dead skin since it is often deep inside your pore (scrubs and peels only affect the surface of the skin but do little to get inside the pore).

To get deep into the pore, you need an overnight product that is left on your skin for many hours.

So what is more effective?

Top 2 ingredients to beat maskne, according to dermatologists

Looking at the playbook which dermatologists use to treat acneretinoids are the dermatologist’s first choice for treatment followed by AZA.

Dermatologists Acne Treatment Algorithm

Retinol is very effective in flushing out dead skin while AZA serves the dual function of flushing out dead skin and calming down any pimples that surface.

Remove the dead skin and clogs do not form. Without clogs, maskne does not form.

So what is the right mix of retinol + AZA that is effective in flushing out clogs without being too harsh on your skin?

Meet Clear Out. Most acne treatment products only have a SINGLE active ingredient. However, to maximize effectiveness and minimize irritation*, Clearly spent years formulating Clear Out so that it contains the right mix of BOTH retinol + AZA.

*We've combined the top two ingredients which derms use to fight acne (in the right percentages) to drive synergy. This means Clear Out is very effective in flushing out clogs while being gentle on sensitive skin. Over 50% of our users have sensitive or combination skin and they have no issues using Clear Out.

This unique formulation is a deadly combination that flattens active pimples and reduces future breakouts.

98% of people who use Clear Out see significant improvements in their maskne. If you don’t see a noticeable improvement after using your first bottle of Clear Out, you can get a full refund through Clearly’s moneyback guarantee.

2. Get cleansing right

A surprising number of people cleanse improperly —whether that takes the form of over-cleansing, using the wrong products, or just not cleansing at all.

Warm, humid air underneath your mask is the perfect environment for bacteria to flourish. Start everyday with a gentle wash so that you reduce the bacterial load on your skin.

Be careful NOT to overwash as you will strip your skin of essential oils needed to protect your skin against bacteria.

To get the perfect cleanse, you will find that some parts of your face require more cleansing while other parts less cleansing.

So how do you get it right? 

Consider So Fresh Cleanser. This soap-free wash gives you a gentle tingle when you have taken off enough oil from your skin. 

When using So Fresh, focus on areas of your face where you don’t yet feel a tingle.

You will find that your skin is much more balanced and supple after every wash. Your skin will not feel tight or overstripped in any area of your face:

A fresh tingle is all you need to get the perfect cleanse!

Face washing 101

How you wash your face can make a difference in your appearance. Follow these tips from dermatologists to help you keep your face looking healthy.

Source: aad.org

3. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize

Dry skin is a common face mask skin problem.

In addition, abrasive fibers from your mask can damage your lipid barrier, allowing bacteria to penetrate into your skin and cause inflammation. 

If you experience skin sensitivity or redness under your mask, use peptides to repair your lipid barrier

Source: Facetory

Apply moisturizer before and after wearing a mask. Moisturizer can prevent problems, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.

Tip courtesy of board-certified dermatologist Carrie L. Kovarik, MD, FAAD

Consider Protective Moisturizer. It is loaded with peptides and antioxidants that help to reduce dryness and strengthen your skin so it can fight off environmental stressors.

After a single bottle, you will see a noticeable reduction in skin sensitivity and redness. This moisturizer is one of our most popular products!

What about oily skin, what's best for me?

Acne and larger pores are often attributed to oily skin.

As pores are clogged, oil may not reach its intended target leading to a vicious cycle of overproduction (clogged pores -> more oil production -> more clogged pores).

Consider Matte Hydrator, to break the oil production cycle. It keeps your skin matte and supple so that your skin does not need to overproduce as much oil during the day!

4. Keep your makeup light

While we’re all excited to go out again, let’s keep the makeup light (you can’t see it under the mask anyways). 

Liquid or long wear foundation should be avoided as they often contain occlusive ingredients which clog pores.

Opt for powder/mineral based foundation instead. 

5. Wash your masks frequently

You would be surprised at how many people reuse masks without a thorough wash. 

Get into the routine of washing your masks after every use and minimize the use of detergents or soaps which may irritate your skin. 

You can skip detergents or soap entirely by soaking your mask in a bowl of boiled water. 

If the air under your mask is particularly humid or you need to wear masks for a prolonged period of time, consider changing masks mid-day. 

Bonus tip: Wear the right mask

To reduce skin problems, look for masks that offer the following:

  • A snug, but comfortable fit
  • Soft, natural, and breathable fabric, such as cotton, on the inside layer that rests against your skin

A snug, comfortable fit can reduce skin problems. If the mask feels too tight or slides around on your face, it can irritate your skin.

Avoid synthetic fabrics, such as nylon, polyester, and rayon on the the layer that rests against your skin. These are more likely to irritate your skin and cause breakouts.

For more tips on selecting a face mask, visit CDC.gov.


Clearly Basics is a skincare line exclusively focused on acne-prone skin. We have a 4.9 out of 5-star rating which is rare to see with any acne-related brand.

Please use code IMCARESKINCARE to get 10% off your order.

Real People with REAL, Lasting Results

Clearly Basics has helped many people with acne ranging from mild to severe; people with sensitive skin to people with extremely oily skin. For a personalized assessment, please click "Send Message" on the Clearly Basics Facebook page.

Here are some of our stories below. These are users who have documented their entire acne journey on Instagram, including products they have used before they started Clearly Basics:


Mim (@mimandskin), a teacher from Southampton, battled hormonal acne for over 6 years before she tried the Clear Out

@mimandskin Individual results may vary

“Out of everything I’ve tried over the 6 years I’ve battle acne on and off it’s by far stood out as being one of the most effective with no side effects (after the initial “purge”). I’ve used nothing but Clearly Basics for 11 months now and it still exceeds my expectations!”


Toni (@xx.tonilumsden), a stylist from Hertfordshire.

She spent over $6500 in acne products and treatments that did nothing for her acne…

Then she discovered the Power Duo and it changed her life…

@xx.tonilumsden Individual results may vary

Never in my life did I imagine my skin would be this clear! Clearly Basics has completely transformed my skin!”


Alisha (@skinwithak) suffered from persistent acne and went through three rounds of oral medications before discovering Clear Out:

alisha
 

@skinwithak Individual results may vary

All I can say is ‘Clear Out’ by @clearlybasics is a Godsend ❤️ It doesn’t leave me overly dry or flaky which most retinol creams did.” "I wish I came across Clearly Basics before starting oral medication as I would have purchased these and wouldn't have had to put my body through so much!"


Or Ella (@_myskinstory), an aesthetician and a makeup artist who has not found anything like the Clear Out to keep her breakouts under control.

"The Clear Out is my favorite and most recommended product to any of my followers who suffer with mild-acne as well as post-acne suffers. The combination of ingredients are unique and work THE BEST in keeping spots at bay as well as improving acne marks & scars."


FAQ

How is Clear Out Any Different from Other Retinol or AZA Products?

Most products in the market contain only a SINGLE active ingredient so it does not use multiple pathways to address your skin concern.

Using multiple ingredients simultaneously is more EFFECTIVE, but getting the percentages correct in order to maximize synergy is difficult without precision machinery.

Every ingredient in Clear Out took years to balance in order to maximize synergy: ingredients work together to address your skin concerns with better results and less side effects.

I Have Sensitive Skin. Can I Use Clear Out?

Clear Out can work on its own for 95% of the population. The formulation is gentle yet powerful enough to tackle many cases that would otherwise require prescription medication.

For the 5% with very sensitive skin, add the Protective Moisturizer. Using Clear Out with the Protective Moisturizer will ensure that it works for even the most sensitive of skin. The Protective Moisturizer contains a wealth of antioxidants and botanicals that nourish your skin and peptides that simulate your lipid barrier to regrow.

This moisturizer reduces your skin's sensitivity and reduces general redness/blushing. It doesn't clog your pores even on the most sensitive skin!

I Have Oily Skin, What's Best for Me?

Acne and larger pores are often attributed to oily skin.

As pores are clogged, oil may not reach its intended target leading to a vicious cycle of overproduction (clogged pores -> more oil production -> more clogged pores).

Thus we designed Matte Hydrator, to break the oil production cycle. It keeps your skin matte and supple so that your skin does not need to overproduce as much oil during the day!

Most skincare brands have one, perhaps two formulations that are really effective.

However, Clearly carries FIVE formulations that are UNIQUE and the BEST in its class: Clear Out, Lighten Up, Protective Moisturizer, Matte Hydrator and Dark Mark Defense.

What If It Doesn't Work on My Skin?

Clear Out is so EFFECTIVE that you will get a full 90-day money back guarantee if you do not see a noticeable improvement after your first bottle. T&Cs apply.

This moneyback guarantee has been on every bottle of Clear Out and we have seen over +98% success rate.

How Long Will It Take to See Results?

In the first month, this formulation will trigger a purge of dead skin trapped in your pores which can appear as flakes or low level breakouts.

This purge will peak at week 5 and subside after week 8 of use. At week 10, you will turn over a clearer layer of skin that is less clog prone. See below:

@xx.tonilumsden. Individual results may vary

Directions for Use?

Clear Out is only used in the evening as part of your night-time routine:

  1. Wash your face with a cleanser
  2. Apply toner (if applicable)
  3. Apply Clear Out (leave-in lotion)
  4. Apply moisturizer or other skincare that you normally use in the evening

Try Clear Out, Risk FREE!

If you finish an entire bottle and don’t see any results…

You’re entitled to a full refund within 90 days! T&Cs apply.

Try it with CONFIDENCE!



Many more reviews from Google ...


Disclaimer:

Nothing on this article should be interpreted as personal medical advice. For medical related matters, please consult with your dermatologist.

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#RealResults

See what others have to say about Clearly Basics.

Based on 25 reviews
88%
(22)
4%
(1)
8%
(2)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
Skin Type: Normal
Comments: Any ideas on how to get rid of brown skin damage
Skin defence

Marks of sun damage are still there they haven't faded much after using twice a day for 60 days. . I will continue until product is finished. I'm a bit disappointed

Skin Type: Combination

I am so happy that I stumbled upon clearly basics on instagram. I was skeptical at first but decided to give it a try and bought clear out clarifying lotion. It's been 2 months and my skin has improved a lot. I can see significant reduction in pores and acne.

Skin Type: Combination
Amazing

After years of medication and products, I decided to try clearly basics. In just 6 weeks my skin has calmed and I am now able to treat scarring.

So glad to have found these products!

Finding products that helped to control my acne without irritating my sensitive skin has always been a huge challenge. The clearly basics products have been my saviour, I can't recommend them enough ☺️

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Excellent and actually works

I am so incredibly impressed with the TLC for pore minimising - it 💯 works and has transformed my skin.

I’m in my 50’s and always had hormonal flare ups with larger pores as I age - this is a game changer and have just reordered my 3rd bottle !

❤️❤️❤️❤️

Skin Type: Combination
The Best!!

So good been buying for a couple years. Just a shame they no longer ship to UK and I have to look for another product

not bad but I thought the formula has changed since what it was previously (i had it maybe 2 years ago) and I found it less effective now

Skin Type: Combination
This is the stuff.

So, long time sufferer of acne. Started when I was 12 and I'm 28 now still battling it. I've tried all kinds of different things to try and get it under control and besides birth control, nothing has helped long term. I never want to take birth control ever again and I just happened upon this brand and decided well, why not try? To my amazement, it has helped more than anything else I've tried, I'd say it has improved my skin to the level it was at when I took BC. Of course I still get pimples every now and then, and tiny flare ups during PMS but my skin is nowhere near as bad as it used to be. I highly recommend this company. To those who are considering trying this out, be aware that during the first week or so your skin will go through a purge and your acne will appear to get worse at first. Stick with it! Once that phase is over is when your skin will begin improving. I do need to use it every night for it to be fully effective, but even when I do forget, the pimples don't get too out of control. I just can't say enough good things about this product. It has helped my confidence improve immensely and I definitely recommend trying it to those who have skin as finicky as mine.

Skin Type: Sensitive / Dry
The only moisturiser I trust

I am super sensitive and this is the only moisturiser that I trust honestly incredible.

Skin Type: Combination
Amazing!

I use this product and with the clear out and it has really helped my hormonal acne.

This skin care routine is the o lay one that has helped clear up my daughters skin.

My daughters skin is really starting to look better!

Skin Type: Oily
So far so good

Bought this for my daughter that has struggled with acne for years. She has seen improvement and less frequent breakouts.

Best moisturizer I have found!

V
Lighten Up Redness Rescue Cream
Veronica Ilenya Ranieri
Skin Type: Sensitive / Dry
Perfect

Has changed my skin from acne pro to almost perfect 😍😍

Skin Type: Combination
Obsessed !!

Obsessed with this cleanser!! It left me feeling fresh and prevented break outs. It is incredible . Loved this product so much

My skin feels so soft after using this moisturiser!

My skin feels so soft after using this moisturiser!

Skin Type: Combination
Fresh and clean!

My face is filled with energy and feels so fresh and clean!

Skin Type: Normal
excellent item!

have been using this for years! so good for my skin :)

C
So Fresh pH Balancing Cleanser
Carmelinda Di Manno
Skin Type: Combination
Fresh Feeling

My skin feels so clean and still hydrated when I use this cleanser. It’s balancing and refreshing. My skin has responded really well to it and at times my skin can be sensitive. I highly recommend this product to anyone with relatively oily t-zone area

Skin Type: Combination
Very happy!

Love the texture, the minty scent and the lather.
I wish the bottles were a bit bigger HOWEVER they are just small enough to fly with.

Skin Type: Normal
Comments: The only thing I now need to use to keep my skin clear.
The holy grail for clearing hormonal acne.

This is the only product that I have needed to keep my skin clear since discovering it about 2 years ago, after suddenly developing cystic hormonal acne at the age of 25. I now only need to use it every second night, so it's incredibly affordable. It has also never irritated my sensitive skin and it has faded previous acne marks to truly clear my skin. After years of trying expensive supplements/products/harsh prescription creams, Clear Out was the only thing that gave me long-lasting results.

Skin Type: Oily
Clearly Basics is the only product that has helped my Adult Acne

I have always struggled with dehydrated acne prone skin. Every month like clockwork I would get a new breakout on my chin or cheek area. These included large cystic acne that by the time they came to a head would take me months to clear. With new breakouts each month this created more & more spots before the first could heal leaving more hyper pigmentation spots that never have time to clear. Clearly basics changed all that for me. It gave my skin a chance to heal and reduced the number of breakouts each month. When I do get a new breakout it resolves itself quickly with less scarring and redness. Now that the acne is under control the products are helping to eliminate the remaining hyper pigmentation spots left from years of acne. I have not been using the product for long but I will continuing relying on this product and look forward to the day I can happily look in the mirror at a smooth clear & even complexion some day soon.

Skin Type: Combination
Comments: Product consistency in terms of smoothness/coarseness/stickiness/ is sometimes a miss, don't believe it affects the result provided.
Great Combo

Have seen great improvements by using these 2 items concurrently, hard to fault and wil continue purchasing.

Individual results may vary

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