The Best Way To Clean Your Face Mask
Face masks, we’re all wearing one but how often are you cleaning yours?
Since the impact of COVID-19 has come into play, many aspects of how we live have changed significantly. Face masks or coverings have become a daily essential to slow down the spread of the virus with coverings now available in many colours, patterns and fabrics.
As we slowly get used to wearing the now compulsory face gear, we can't forget what makes them effective... cleanliness! We know that bacteria from face masks is having an effect on our skin with 'maskne' or mask acne becoming a major player in skin irritation and reactions. With makeup, moisture and sweat build up underneath masks, it’s really no wonder that some of us are seeing disruptions to our skin. The constant rubbing of face masks doesn’t help either, further adding to the irritation. You can read our previous blog for more information on how to avoid maskne, but in summary, the main answer is to maintain clean skin, and you can’t do that without a clean mask!
Tips for How to Clean Your Face Mask
1. Wash after every use
It’s advised to wash your mask after every single use in order to stay safe and eliminate germs and viruses. The very least you want to aim for is once a day. We recommend you keep a stash of face masks at home, in order to rotate between them, while others are being washed. Remember to always wash your hands before putting on a face covering, and to wash your hands again when removing it. Clean masks can be stored in a clear, plastic resealable bag for hygiene purposes. Implementing this practice can also help to avoid breakouts.
2. Wash on a high temperature
After using a face covering, it needs to be washed in soap or detergent. The cleaning process will be more effective at removing dirt and germs if used with hot water. If you want to go the extra mile to avoid skin irritation then opt for a fragrance free detergent that will have a gentler effect on the skin.
Image © Moon & Mellow
3. Use a cotton mask
Cotton face masks are a good option for several reasons. Firstly, cotton is a breathable fabric for the skin, which comes in handy as so much moisture can get trapped underneath a mask. Face coverings should never restrict the user’s ability to breathe.
Cotton masks can also be washed on high temperatures without losing their shape or shrinking. Remember that face masks should be made up of several layers of fabric, usually 3, a moisture absorbent material touching the face, a filter like material in the middle and a moisture resistant material on the outer layer. We love Moon & Mellow's range of organic cotton masks featured above.
Our Top Tip:
Just remember, that as advised by the World Health Organisation, masks alone cannot prevent the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing and frequent hand washing and sanitising are key.
Did you know that our Lavender & tea Tree Hand Sanitiser adheres to WHO standards, and is made with 70% isopropyl alcohol, to effectively disinfect hands as well as skin softening glycerin and anti-inflammatory lavender to reduce any inflammation of the hands?
For every bottle we sell we donate an additional 50% to healthcare providers in our local community, as our small way to say thanks. Learn more about our GIVE A HAND DONATION PROJECT here.
