MASKNE is the new acne: think about dedicated Maskne products!
Maskne, or mask acne, is a growing problem that consumers and formulators are trying to address. Many individuals, especially healthcare professionals, wear facemasks for very long periods.
Maskne, or mask acne, is a growing problem that consumers and formulators are trying to address. Many individuals, especially healthcare professionals, wear facemasks for very long periods.
Prolonged hours in the warm environment within the mask and the added friction from wear can lead to skin irritation and sensitivity, causing micro-tears and allowing easier entry for bacteria and dirt to clog up skin pores. Moreover, breathing into a mask also creates a warm and humid environment that increases oil and bacteria production and gives rise to the loss of microbiota balance and skin dysbiosis – that can be considered a form of impaired homeostasis in which the microbiota is shifted towards a less complex, less varied pathological spectrum.
Today, surgical and protective masks are a daily necessity, so it is not simple to avoid wearing them. New approaches are needed to prevent imperfections and irritations, while allowing consumers to wear protective masks properly.
So, what can we do to protect our skin?
The utilization of ultra-lightweight and water-based facial care products can act as an additional barrier against any friction to prevent skin irritation. Below there are some examples of the properties that a maskne product should have in order to be good and healthy for the skin:
What kind of evaluations can we perform to support the efficacy of your maskne products?
Mérieux NutriSciences CosmeticLAB integrated and multi-tool approach exploits the synergies of different techniques.
MASK TISSUE AND PRODUCTS CONTROL
Skin compatibility. Patch test confirms the absence of irritation. It is performed by a dermatologist on a panel of healthy volunteers with normal or sensitive skin.
LESS IS MORE
Cosmetic formulation need to be adapted
Free pores. The product should not occlude skin pores.
Ultralight formula. Cosmetics need to be gentle and soft on the skin.
No transfer and long-lasting effect. Skin imaging analyzer and follow-up of make-up over time: the software processes the image to obtain color quantification in comparison with the untreated area.
PREVENT THROUGH SKIN REINFORCEMENT & PROTECTION
In vitro testing to identify how the product or ingredient can prevent the Maskne
Skin barrier effect. Skin is part of the first defense system in fighting external infection and maintaining its homeostasis is fundamental to protect our body.
Soothing action. Calming products to avoid stress and anxiety.
TREAT THROUGH THE SKIN MICROBIOME BALANCING
In vivo evaluations to preserve the skin homeostasis
Skin microbiota equilibrium. Several factors associated with the constant use of protective masks can lead to the loss of microbiota balance and cause skin dysbiosis. An integrated and multi-tool approach can be applied to prove the balancing effect of a product.
Moisturizing and hydration. The hydration level in the surface layer is an important factor affecting the biophysical properties and function of the skin barrier.
TEWL – Trans-Epidermal Water Loss. Improve the barrier function of the stratum corneum to counteract excessive skin perspiration due to a wetter environment under the mask.
WARM FEELING
In vivo evaluations with measurements and images – The visual evidence
Skin thermography evaluation. Analyze thermal distribution and changes due to non-contact infrared measurements to evaluate the efficacy of cosmetic, dermatologic and aesthetical products and treatments.
Anti-redness and skin homogeneity properties. Dull complexion, skin color, and absence of blemishes and imperfections.
SKIN BREATHES
Consumer expectation – The wow effect
Relaxed skin. Feel the skin breathe under the mask material.
Perfumed effect. Stress reducer or energy activator thanks to the aromas contained in the product.
Well-being. Wear the mask and feel comfortable.
