Professional skin care
Masks protect us, but they can also cause skin problems. Many spa clients are asking, “Can face masks cause acne?” Sadly, yes. Since masks are part of daily life, clients are turning to you for help with mask-related acne and irritation. To help, we asked several Eminence Organics International Trainers to share practical tips you can use to guide clients toward clearer skin under a mask.
Mask hygiene: mask care habits
Start by talking with clients about how they use and care for their masks. This is new for most people, and good habits can reduce mask-related breakouts. As a Certified B Corporation, we recommend reusable masks because they’re better for the environment—many of our staff wear them. But reusable masks need regular washing. The CDC advises washing them often, and infectious disease expert Dr. Amesh A. Adalja says, “It’s best to wash them after each use, [as] the mask itself can become contaminated.”
Why do face masks make me break out?
Wearing masks is important, but keeping them clean matters for skin health. International Trainer Jude Herrera explains that reused masks “can harbor oils and bacteria. They also trap heat and moisture against the skin, allowing bacteria to thrive, which can cause acne and irritation.” He suggests using color- and fragrance-free detergents to lower the chance of irritation. If daily washing feels like too much, suggest clients own several masks and wash them together weekly.
If disposable masks are needed, International Trainer Katie Rattray warns to avoid certain materials. She says to “watch out for latex, which can increase the likelihood of contact dermatitis.” Makeup can also worsen irritation; International Trainer Hector Rafael advises avoiding low-quality, comedogenic cosmetics that clog pores. When possible, encourage clients to take short mask breaks—Hector says a break helps air flow and lets trapped moisture dry out.
Prevent breakouts from mask-wearing
Once clients improve their mask care, help them tweak their skincare to prevent breakouts. Katie recommends two key steps: 1) create a barrier between skin and mask, and 2) keep skin hydrated. Since masks can draw moisture out of the skin, she suggests using facial oils during the day to seal in hydration and form a protective layer. For breakout-prone skin, try the Facial Recovery Oil; for dry skin, the Linden Calendula Treatment is a nice option. She also recommends richer creams at night for extra overnight hydration.
If a client uses a cleanser with abrasive beads or strong foaming agents, switch them to a gentler cleanser to avoid stripping and irritating the skin. International Trainer Brian Goodwin emphasizes starting with a mild cleanser: the Calm Skin Chamomile Cleanser helps sensitive skin and protects the moisture barrier. For oily or problem skin, the Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser uses salicylic acid to reduce oil while yogurt soothes and cools. For a gel cleanser that won’t dry skin out, try the Stone Crop Gel Wash, which brightens and balances with stone crop, chamomile, and shea butter.
For clients who wear masks 8+ hours a day, oil, heat, and bacteria can build up. Brian suggests a simple DIY on-the-go cleansing pad: apply the Clear Skin Willow Bark Exfoliating Peel to a clean cotton round, seal it in a small bag or airtight container, and carry it for midday use. Instruct clients to gently glide the pad over the skin where the mask sits rather than scrubbing. After cleansing, a toner like the Stone Crop Hydrating Mist can calm and boost hydration, leaving skin clearer and more comfortable.