We all know we’re living in unprecedented times, and with that comes the need to wear a mask whenever you’re outside your house to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Covering your nose and mouth all the time is not ideal for most people, but it’s vital for public safety and will likely be mandated for quite a while.

That being said, while masks are doing a public service in keeping us and those around us safe, they can also be irritating your skin. Whether the masks are giving you dermatitis, dry skin, irritation, or causing breakouts, here are some tips for not letting face coverings ruin your skin:

• It may seem obvious, but wash your face daily, both in the morning and at night. At night it’s especially important to cleanse since you’ve likely been out and about, so your skin has been exposed to your face mask, as well as pollutants in the air throughout the day. Cleansing is essential for healthy skin.

• Moisturize frequently. Perhaps you’re noticing dry patches on your face where your mask covers your skin. Be sure to incorporate a gentle moisturizer (like Kaia Earth’s Intensive Botanical Night Cream and Pure Moisturizer Serum) into your routine after cleansing.

• The American Academy of Dermatological Association recommends this reference guide when deciding on a moisturizer: Oily skin should use a gel moisturizer; Normal or combination skin should use a lotion; and dry skin should use a cream.

• The weather is changing as winter approaches, and with that comes dry air. Protect your lips and prevent them from getting chapped with products like Vaseline or Aquaphor.

• Reduce the amount of makeup you’re applying. If your skin is acting up, giving it a break from makeup can help restore its health and give you back your glow. Cosmetics tend to sneak many harmful ingredients into their products (think: parabens, fragrance, chemicals), so do your research and make sure you are aware of what you’re putting on your face.

• Drink. Tons. of. Water. You may not feel dehydrated, but when your body isn’t getting enough water, it shows on your skin. So bump up your fluid ounces and keep hydrating.

• Check the fabric of your face mask. Maybe your skin isn’t a fan of the fabric of the mask, so it can be helpful to try different types to see what agrees with your body best.

Give your skin the love and attention it needs, and wear a mask! #Moisturizer