When wearing a mask for a prolonged period of time, men may find some skin issues ranging from rashes, breakouts to uneven skin colour cropped up. A good skincare routine is paramount during this time.

1. CLENSE During this time, you need to gently wash your face as the mask would rub your face the whole time. Direct friction can lead to skin disruption making the areas in touch with the mask more sensitive. Use mild formula with cleanser which suits your skin type so it is not too dry. Keeping your skin hydrated is vital in protecting the skin barrier from the friction. Avoid washing your face with a warm to hot water to maintain your skin balance. After wearing a mask throughout the day, you should wash your face as soon as you return home.    

2. EXFOLIATE If you spend most of your time outdoor, the part of your face that is exposed to the sun may have different colour than that covered by a mask. Exfoliator may be the answer. Focus on the exposed area and be sure to scrub gently as much as possible around the covered area where it tends to be sensitive. Use facial scrub which contains fine beads to avoid irritation and inflammation 1-2 times a week. For an upper part of your face exposed to elements, you can use whitening products to fix an uneven tone.

3. MOIST No matter how hot and humid the weather may be, skin moisturiser is of utmost important. Dry skin means you are prone to develop skin-related issues. Most men do not like the oily feel after applying moisturiser. These days you can take your pick from loads of options and formulae out there ranging from light and watery, semi-solid gel to thick cream. Bear in mind that your skin, too, can get dehydrated regardless of how oily you think your skin is. It is always a good idea to keep it moisturised especially when wearing mask is still mandatory.

4. As mentioned above a part of your face covered by a mask is way more sensitive than usual. Moreover, shaving deals with the skin parts which are normally fragile and sensitive whether mask or no mask. It goes without saying that we have to be extra cautious when it comes to shaving. During this mask wearing period, we recommend that you use electric shaver instead of normal razors to avoid skin aggravation.

5. When you wear a mask, an upper part of your face will be the focus of attention. Hence, extra care is needed around your eyebrows and eyes. Disheveled brows may have to be brushed with a clear mascara gel, vaseline or hair wax. Be careful not to let it run on your skin. Comb your brows with a spoolie to keep it in shape. Put moisturiser around your eyes in the morning and evening for a captivating fresh glow. To fix an appearance of black circles under your eyes due to lack of sleep, go for an eye cream with caffeine to make your eyes look well rested.

6. Men’s indispensable grooming product is sunscreen. Apply it daily all over your face including covered areas under a mask because UV is capable of penetrating through a mask to harm your skin. If you want to maintain young looking skin without ageing signs, put sunscreen on your face and neck as well.