Why you should wear Silk Masks - Maskne and its benefits
The appearance of Covid-19 led us into unprecedented times. We never thought, that a simple thing such as a surgical mask, would save the lives of many!
Why you should wear a Silk Mask
Societies and lifestyles have changed to adapt to the current times where Covid-19 still runs rampant around the world. Before life can continue as 'per usual' or pre-covid state, masks are worn to protect ourselves and to prevent further spread of the virus.
Wearing masks daily brought about a new phenomenon worldwide: the dreaded 'Maskne'.
Mask-ne
Coined by Elizebeth Arden's Dermatologist, Maskne is acne caused by wearing a surgical masks or a facial mask. Worn daily, an extra layer of covering on your face can affect your skin adversely, such as an increased sebum and sweat on your skin. Research shows that it is not caused by a 'lack of ventilation' but from increased levels of moisture, such as breathing and talking while we have our masks on. It results in an abundance of bacteria around the area of skin where we wear a mask, inevitably breaking the microbiome-or balance of bacteria there, causing an overgrowth of bacteria that makes it acne prone.
Who is prone to Maskne?
This list is exhaustive and states certain factors that make you more susceptible to having acne from wearing masks:
- Sensitive skin
- Wearing Surgical Masks daily for long hours
- Dry or oily skin
- Those who already have existing acne conditions - making them worse
- Environmental factors such as humid and warm climates
- Material of masks worn
Silk Masks, Covid and Maskne
A laboratory-based study examines the properties of silk fabric as a functional protective barrier; face covering for the COVID-19 pandemic and it shows that:
- Silk face covering works as well as disposable single-use surgical masks in repelling droplets in spray tests
- Silk face coverings have an advantage over surgical masks where they can be sterilized for immediate reuse.
- Silk is a hydrophobic barrier to droplets and is shown to be more breathable than other fabrics that trap humidity and is not single use.
Although respirators are still the most appropriate form of protection, silk face coverings possess properties that make them capable of repelling droplets thus is still a better alternative based on its benefits to our skin.
Benefits of Silk
The breathable nature of silk will be less irritating for the skin since less heat and moisture will build up. Gentle on your skin, the luxe fabric causes less friction or frication related irritations as well, meaning that you would likely not experience many of the mask-related skin issues.
Read about Why we use Silk - Benefits of Silk here
First ever Silk Mask in Singapore
Bells & Birds Mulberry Silk Masks
Bells & Birds are the first to create and supply Silk Masks in the Singapore market. Our signature silk face masks are handcrafted and made from 100% mulberry silk in 13 essential colours that will match effortlessly with your outfits.
These were created due to the consistent breakouts and acne caused by wearing surgical masks. After consistent wear of our mulberry silk masks since May, Amanda (founder of Bells & Birds) found that her mask-ne has cleared up considerably compared to when she was wearing surgical masks.
Mulberry silk is the finest in the market, more refined than other types of silk, it is 100% natural, odourless and hypo-allergenic. It is commonly used for luxurious bedding and sleepwear products.
Why you should wear a Silk Mask
If you’re worried about acne, it is definitely recommended to invest in a silk mask (or two!). Give it a try and see if it makes a difference to your skin. If maskne is not a problem you face (lucky you!), in terms of comfort, switching to an authentic, comfortable and luxurious silk face mask makes wearing masks all the more comfortable. You might even not want to wear other materials of face masks ever again!
Shop Bells & Birds Mulberry Silk Masks
