Professor Ryan’s tips to prevent acne breakouts during COVID-19.

Quaracne has become a hot topic in recent months! Here are some of Professor
Ryan’s tips to prevent acne breakouts during COVID-19.

Always make sure you use an oil-free or non-comedogenic makeup (which is the vast majority of foundations available today). This typically does not cause acne unless it is applied in very heavy layers. Acne caused by mechanical obstruction of pores is known as Acne Cosmetica. The main causes of acne related to makeup use, however, are not fully cleansing off makeup or using dirty makeup brushes and sponges. Always try to double cleanse at night. Makeup brushes accumulate oil, dirt and bacteria. Wash makeup brushes and sponges at least once weekly and keep them in a clean environment (not rolling around the bottom of a handbag or makeup bag). Lately I have been recommending @Brushbags to protect your brushes and skin from bacteria and dirt.

Another reason your skin may be breaking out is if you are wearing a facemask when you go our or while you work. “Maskne” is very common at the moment, particularly in healthcare workers. This is another form of acne mechanica, caused by the combination of rubbing from the mask, which causes local pressure on the sebaceous ducts and irritates the skin barrier, as well as the warm, moist micro-environment under the mask, which dilates the pores, increases oil production and causes clogging of the ducts with bacteria and oil. This causes inflammation of the sebaceous glands which causes acne breakouts.
Here are some tips to prevent “Maskne.” Before wearing your mask, wash your face with a gentle cleanser, apply an oil-free moisturiser to protect the skin barrier, and avoid wearing makeup under the mask. After taking off your mask, wash your face with a cleanser containing salicylic acid, apply your topical retinoid to keep your pores clean and tight, and use an oil-free moisturiser to hydrate and restore the skin barrier. Don’t reuse disposable masks as they harbour bacteria, dirt, oil and makeup.
Using a balancing acid-based mask - such as Biologique Recherche Masque Vivant - 2-3 times a week can help reduce breakouts while improving skin texture.
If you would like to book a skincare consultation please do get in touch with us on
(01) 912 3030 or email us at info@instituteofdermatologists.ie .