Behind the mask: Students share skin care tips for quarantine

Skin care was an internet sensation before quarantine, but the pandemic has brought an influx of time for self-care — and mask-wearing calls for extra measures. Wearing a mask has become part of people’s day-to-day ensembles, but luckily there are ways to prevent “maskne” from ruining your quarantine glow-up. 

First-year student Mckenna Griffin said she had to change up her skin care routine with the onset of mask-wearing.

“I used to have really really good skin and then we started having to wear masks and I’m struggling to control breakouts,” Griffin said. “No matter what I do it seems like it gets worse, so it’s kind of a struggle.”

Similarly, senior Katherine Wilder said she has been struggling with new breakouts as a result of wearing masks daily. 

“I think before COVID-19 I would only wash my face once a day, and didn’t really focus too much on skin care because I didn’t really notice my face breaking out as much,” Wilder said. “With wearing a mask, especially combined with the hot weather, it’s the perfect recipe for acne and breakouts.” 

First-year student Ronik Grewal had not given much thought to skin care before quarantine. But he said he has now decided to contribute some of his extra time to self-care. 

“Now, I guess because I’m at home most of the day, I’ve been more effective in my face care routine because I’ve just slowed down and been taking more time with it,” Grewal said.

Masks can trap sweat and irritate your skin, causing breakouts. According to Neutrogena, an American skin care company, one of the key steps in preventing this acne is washing both your face and your mask on a regular basis, as well as using an oil-free moisturizer and as little makeup as possible. 

"Vogue" Beauty Editor Zoe Ruffner also recommends washing your mask frequently and using creative eye makeup rather than trapping foundation under your mask. She also noted that sticking with gentle products and a consistent routine is crucial for taking care of your skin. 

As with most trends today, skin care is no stranger to TikTok. Both Griffin and Wilder referenced TikTok sensation “Skincare By Hyram,” which led them to begin using primarily CeraVe products in their skin care routines. 

All three students said they wash their faces twice a day as well, and mentioned other products and brands such as witch hazel, vitamin C serum, face masks, Clean&Clear, cleen and Origins. 

“I have very sensitive skin, and so since quarantine started I have been having to wash it every morning and every night,” Griffin said.

Griffin said simplicity is key when it comes to skin care. She said everyone’s skin is different, and what works for someone else might not work for you. 

“Sometimes less is more. Try and use clean and unscented beauty products,” Griffin said. “A lot of people try to sell you stuff that smells good but it isn’t good for your skin.”

Grewal said whatever you do, it is crucial to follow the directions for products.

“Follow the directions, especially when it talks about taking your time with it,” Grewal said. “It’s the same with brushing your teeth; they say two minutes because that’s what it takes to be effective.” 

Students said skin care is important because it gives them confidence. 

“If you have any type of breakout, I personally feel like everyone can see it, ” Wilder said. “Being preventative can stop breakouts from happening and help you feel better about yourself.”

Skin care could be the first step in putting your best face forward, Grewal said.

“When you look good, you feel good,” Grewal said.  

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