Taking off your mask at the end of the day is almost as satisfying as slipping off your shoes… until you see what’s underneath.

I know I can't be the only one struggling with irritated, bumpy skin around my chin from wearing a mask all day. If I were the skin trapped in that muggy environment for up to 7 hours a day, I’d be trying to say, “Save me!” as well. For anyone else with acne-prone skin who’s struggling with the dreaded “mascne,” here are my best tips to fight and prevent it.

Wash those hands.

Yes, I know exactly what you’re thinking, “We already hear that 20 times a day!” However, doing an extra scrub of your hands before removing your mask is an extremely helpful way to prevent infecting the skin around your chin. With the summer heat trapped inside your mask, it’s like wearing your own chin sauna. This heat and humidity opens up your pores and makes them sensitive to germs. If you’re anything like me, you’re probably tempted to touch your skin when you remove your mask at the end of the day. To ensure that you don’t place any more germs on that area, give your hands a quick wash before taking off your mask, and you’ll help prevent clogging those pores any more.

Ditch the makeup.

For all of my ladies out there, I know this can be a scary one. Having more acne usually makes us want to cover up more, but this is exactly where the mask becomes your friend. Rather than trapping concealer, powder, and foundation under your mask; leave that area bare if you know you’ll have your mask on all day. The mask will be your sidekick in hiding the acne around your chin, and you’ll still be good to apply your normal face and eye makeup around it. This was recommended to me by my dermatologist, and I can truly say I notice a big difference when I skip the makeup under my mask. No clogged pores under this face covering!

Tone up your skincare.

Another great tool to combat mascne is to incorporate toner into your skincare routine. Toner is typically used after removing your makeup and washing your face. Apply it with a cotton round to your entire face and neck to get the final cleanse that your skin needs. It’s amazing to see how much excess dirt and oil comes off after using a toner, and it leaves a great foundation for your skin to absorb any other skincare products you apply after. If you’re going without makeup for the day, use your toner in the morning as well to make sure you have a clean face when putting your mask on.

Wash that mask (gently).

Keeping your mask clean is one of the most important tips to keeping your mascne away. Even if you’re not seeing the old makeup rub off onto your mask, sweat and oil can still be lingering in the fabric. Giving your mask a quick hand wash at night and letting it air dry will ensure that you aren’t applying that old dirt to your skin. My biggest tip is to find a gentle, unscented soap (baby soap is a great option) to use when you are washing. Trust me, you definitely don’t want to throw your mask into the wash with your Oxi-Clean and Scentboosters. If you find yourself buying new masks throughout the year, be sure to give them a wash before wearing them as well.

If you’ve been on the struggle bus with your skin since wearing a mask, you are not alone. Being proactive is the best tool, and incorporating these tips into your daily routine will be a huge help. Got any “mascne” tips of your own? Leave them in the comments below, and let’s kick this mascne to the curb!

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Jordan K.