Dr. Xuan Huang, MD, PhD, Medical Director Patients’ Choice Awards recognized Dr. Xuan Huang for providing the most positive experience for her patients.
Holding both a Certificate and a Diploma from American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM), she
utilizes the most advanced technology in her aesthetic medical spa practice.
Dr. Huang received her MD in 1999 and Ph.D. in 2006, and is a Clinical Assistant Professor at Case Western Reserve University. She has authored numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals, speaks at
community symposiums and national forums, and has served as a panelist in many national conferences.
Three steps to keep your skin healthy and glowing under your mask
We wear masks as a great way to protect ourselves and others. However, masks can cause friction in small areas, redirect your air flow against your face, and trap moisture. This is the “perfect storm” for the flare ups of conditions like acne, rosacea, and rashes that are caused by extreme dryness.
More than one-third of frontline health care workers reported adverse skin reactions. The term “maskne” (mask acne) has taken social media by storm.
The Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology reported the highest incidences were acne, facial itching and rash. Having a consistent skin care regimen can help to prevent these problems.
As the Medical Director of Huang Aesthetics and Wellness Center, Dr. Huang suggests that mask wearers maintain this daily skin care routine at home, to soothe the skin and avoid flare-ups.
Step 1: Clean, Exfoliate and Tone
Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Keep the skin clean, remove oil, bacteria and any other irritants. Gentle exfoliation smoothes skin and removes dulling and clogged skin cells. After exfoliation, apply toner to minimize skin’s oil and balance its PH.
Step 2: Antioxidant Creams and Specific Skin Care Regimen
Use an antioxidant cream to prevent free radical damage and support the skin’s natural DNA repair, which in turn maximizes the skin barrier function. Proceed with a specific skin care regimen targeting your particular skin issues such as aging, dry skin, acne, rosacea, or sensitivity. In case of itchy rash, scaly skin, bumps or blisters, or swelling and burning—stop all skincare products and call Dr. Huang’s office for a complimentary consultation.
In areas of increased pressure or friction from your mask such as around the edge, nose, behind the ear, use moisturizers with richer emollients that serve as a barrier cream with ingredients such as: Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid and Dimethicone. If these products do not provide relief, Dr. Huang may suggest a medical skin care product that suits your needs.
Step 3: Makeup Substitutes and Sunscreen
Consider avoiding makeup in your mask area. Components of cosmetics can act as an irritant and cause flare-ups. If you must, a light dust of loose mineral-based noncomedogenic cream or powder can be less harmful. There is also tinted sunscreen products, which could provide both sun protection and mild coverage at the same time.
Huang Aesthetics and Wellness Center carries a variety of medical-grade skin care products that address skin conditions you may encounter with the prolonged use of masks. For example, Hydrating Creme from ZO Skin & Health is an excellent choice for skin barrier repair and restoration. It supports skin’s natural DNA repair process and helps new and healthy skin cells grow. It can instantly reduce itching, dryness, redness and irritation. With continued use, this will reduce the intensity and frequency of flare-ups caused by the masks.
Huang Aesthetics and Wellness Center uses the latest technology bundled with effective products to reduce the look and feel of skin that has suffered from these prolonged conditions.
If you need more than the 3-step program, feel free to reach out for a complimentary skin consultation in one of my offices or online through your smartphone. You may also reach out to us via Facebook messenger @Huang Aesthetics for questions on any other skin conditions.
We are confident in helping you regain healthy and glowing skin that is resistant to the damage from the masks.
Happy Holidays in good skin!
