The talk of the town term, MASKNE is something we all have experienced in the past few months. Now it’s high time that we get answers to our questions. Which is, how to cure/prevent maskne?
In today’s article we are going to give you not one, not two but TEN ingredients which will help you fight maskne like a pro!
Read till the end so that you don’t miss out on any way to get smooth, acne and bump-free skin you want! Without further ado, Let’s dive into it.
10 ingredients you should use to fight Maskne
1.Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3. Using niacinamide is a direct way of protecting your skin from sunlight, pollution and other environmental factors.
It is a powerful ingredient, generally used for skin brightening and refining the texture of your pores, making the perfect ingredient o take care of clogged pores that cause acne and the post-acne bumps and dark spots. Too much niacinamide can, however, cause unwanted irritation, so make sure you use products with not more than 5% concentration.
How it helps with maskne: It unclogs pores, normalizes the moisture balance and helps reducing dryness. It also helps to refine the skin texture and smoothen out any bumps caused by acne lesions.
Suitable for: All skin types, especially sensitive skin
Usage duration: Give it around 12 weeks to decide whether it has worked for you
Interesting fact: Topical niacinamide can increase the production of ceramides (which help to maintain the skin’s protective barrier)
2.Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is also known as melaleuca oil. If you’re into aromatherapy and natural products you are probably aware of this product! A patch test is recommended before you actually use this essential oil. It is a MUST to use it in a diluted form. Tea tree oil is not only used for acne but surprisingly, it is also used for healing wounds, as a natural deodorant and even in sanitizers!
How it helps with maskne: It is proven that it helps to cure and to decrease the severity of acne. It is termed as a natural therapy for acne.
Tea tree products are probably best used as spot treatments for the occasional pimple, rather than as a sole treatment for the prevention of acne.
Suitable for: All skin types, in diluted form with other oils for sensitive skin
Usage duration: Twice daily, for 45 days
Interesting fact: Gels containing tea tree oil have been shown to reduce the number of lesions and severity of acne.
3.Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is commonly used as one of the best treatments for acne. The widespread use makes it easy easily available at any local pharmacy in India acnecide. It is recommended to use in the concentration of 2.5 to 10%.
How it helps with maskne: Use it for mild bumps. It can be used in combination with other medications. It works as an antiseptic to reduce the germs (bacteria) on your skin which is caused by the close environment of the mask.
Suitable for: All skin types
Usage duration: Maximum effect seen after 2-3 months
Interesting fact: Some skincare experts say that benzoyl peroxide can shed dead skin cells and make the dark spots or scars seem less prominent. However, benzoyl peroxide as an exfoliant is not scientifically proven.
4.Aloe Vera
Aloe vera plant has been used for centuries as a treatment for various ailments. It is one of the most effective ways to cure skin/hair-related problems, naturally. We say it is a totally smart move to use it for maskne! It is inexpensive, available in local stores and can be consumed on its own as a juice.
How it helps with maskne: Apply it directly on your maskne bumps and leave it overnight and wake up to clear and clean skin. Unless you’re allergic to aloe vera, it has no negative effects. It is commonly known as a “succulent” and helps reduce inflammation, reduce the appearance of scars and marks
Suitable for: All skin types
Usage duration: Maximum effect seen in 5-10 days
Interesting fact: When we apply aloe to the skin, it causes the pores to shrink and tighten. That helps keep out all sorts of impurities like bacteria-laden dirt and grime.
5.Retinol
Yes, we are talking about the same retinol you use for your fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. Retinol aka retinoid belongs to the Vitamin A family and is primarily used to prevent fine lines and wrinkles. But its benefits go beyond that and is great to treat acne too. You can either use retinol-based moisturizers and serums or opt for over-the-counter retinol easily available at your local pharmacy. However, be sure to start at a low concentration using it only thrice a week. It is recommended to use it at night.
How it helps with maskne: Its greatest benefit is it effectively slows down/prevents the clogging of pores which is the major cause of acne bumps. So if you’re dealing with stubborn maskne you should consider using retinol.
Suitable for: All skin types
Usage duration: One night per week for beginners for 4-6 weeks
Interesting fact: To really work its magic, your skin cells must convert retinol into retinoic acid in order to produce its effects.
6.Yoghurt
Believe it or not but this natural ingredient is full of vitamins and can be a pranic healer aka the natural healer for your unwanted acne bumps.
How it helps with maskne: Yogurt has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can help prevent the breakout of acne and ensure glowing and healthy skin. A regular beauty regime with a yoghurt facial mask will help keep skin cleansed, which will also reduce irritating breakouts.
Suitable for: Dry skin
Usage duration: 1 week
Interesting fact: The lactic acid in yoghurt scrubs off your old skin and the bacteria manage to stimulate your complexion.
7.Salicylic Acid
If you there is a battle of ingredients, then salicylic acid would be the clear winner. It is acne’s biggest enemy and used in many products to prevent acne and bacterial growth on your skin.
How it helps with maskne: Once it penetrates into the skin it dissolves skin debris that clogs pores, (acts) as an anti-inflammatory and also helps red inflamed pimples and pustules go away faster.
Suitable for: Oily skin, acne-prone skin. Can be too harsh for dry skin.
Usage duration: 4-6 weeks
Interesting fact: When it comes to skin-care products, there are two classes of acids you’ll see often: beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid.
8.Green Tea
Green tea is great for your health but is it good for your acne? Well yes, it is because like all teas it contains polyphenols. Green tea is proven to benefit mild to moderate acne conditions.
How it helps with maskne: It helps reducing sebum production. It is suggested to not use this ingredient for hormonal acne and consult a doctor for proper treatment. It is anti-inflammatory and the catechins in green tea help reduce maskne.
Suitable for: All skin types
Usage duration: 1-2 months
Interesting fact: Research has shown both oral and topical use of green tea to be effective in treating acne. You can try green tea for acne on its own or in addition to other products.
9.Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid has a bunch of benefits that make it an extremely suitable ingredient to cure maskne. It helps retain the moisture in your skin and keeps it hydrated. This means that hyaluronic acid is used for everything from wrinkles to acne, and even post-sun hyperpigmentation.
How it helps with maskne: Hyaluronic acid strengthens the capacity of your skin barrier by keeping the bacteria and external dirt at bay.
Suitable for: All skin types
Usage duration: 2-8 weeks
Interesting fact: Hyaluronic acid for acne can be an important ingredient if you’re dealing with frequent breakouts.
10.Neem seed extract
Neem seed extract kills all the fungus and bacteria on the skin and truly serves the purpose of a guard. It works well with other ingredients too. It is often found in natural haircare and skincare treatments. It kills free radicals and prevents acne.
How it helps with maskne: It is not suggested to use it topically but diluting it with other ingredients or products to fight acne. You can use it with a non-comedogenic ingredient like almond oil or any other product.
Suitable for: All skin types
Usage duration: 3-45 days
Interesting fact: it’s a good ingredient to complement your acne product, but not one to replace.
How fo you prevent or treat acne caused by masks? Be it products, hacks, habits or ingredients, Do Share with the global beauty community in the comments below!
Read more like this on Broadcast Beauty:
- Maskne Guide: What Is It and How To Prevent Acne Caused by Masks
- Skincare Acids Guide: How to Find The Best Skincare Acid for Your Skin Type
- Retinol For Beginners
