While watching a recent edition of Darian Harvin‘s informative and delightful IGTV series Beauty Headlines, she asked viewers if they were experiencing “maskne.” I had been receiving pitches from publicists repping brands with products to cure acne caused by wearing face masks since COVID-19 touched American soil. However, I hadn’t taken a moment to make the connection between the random breakouts that started appearing along my upper cheekbone area and my face covering. The combination of sweltering heat, sweat and dirt had indeed resulted in maskne.

Taking better care of my fabric face masks is the first step towards maintaining healthy skin (washing them regularly in warm water is a must). The second step? Incorporating a few detoxing products into my evening skincare routine, including a pore cleansing mask and toner.

Watch the video to see my deep detoxing skincare routine for maskne, then keep reading for more details on all the beauty products featured.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

I prefer to use the double-cleansing method before bedtime, as I want to ensure that I remove all of the day’s dirt, sweat, sunscreen and makeup (if I even bothered to apply). This cleansing balm is formulated with active ingredients such as elderberry and starflower oils and a Mediterranean algae known as Padina Pavonica, which boasts anti-aging benefits. This makes it powerful, yet pleasant enough to leave my skin feeling clean and soft.

Clean Skin Club Clean Towels

Fellow skincare enthusiast @buymechanel was the one to introduce me to these amazing biodegradable face towels. I haven’t used a traditional wash cloth since incorporating this product into my routine. It has an exfoliating side that is perfect for busting away dirt and a smooth side I like to use after washing off my cleanser or mask.

Erno Laszlo Pore Cleansing Clay Mask

This pink-hued skincare product has become a top three favorite of mine in recent months. Unlike most Bentonite clay masks, this one is non-drying to the skin and has a really creamy texture thanks to the rosewater that allows it to glide right on. Sugar cane and kaolin up the detoxifying factor of this facial treatment. I like to leave on for 10-15 minutes, and you can even use a facial steamer to aid in the pore cleansing process.

Farmacy Deep Sweep 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner

I was fortunate to receive a sample of this toner before its release. The ingredients label was what initially intrigued me, as it it contains salicylic acid, papaya enzymes, moringa, chlorella and is alcohol-free. Almost like a smoothie for your face! What I love about this product is that it really is gentle.

SK-II Facial Essence

You’ve heard and seen me praise this essence time and time again. It’s a staple in my routine because I find that it nourishes my skin and makes it feel supple. It’s a great primer for serums.

Rose Ingleton MD Complexion Brightening Booster

One of the first things I notice about a person is their skin. Blame the Beauty Director in me. But when Amanda Murray aka @londongirlinnyc shared that this serum was the secret behind her luminous glow, I had to get my hands on it ASAP! No wonder it delivers such amazing results, as it’s formulated with citric acid, malic acid and lactic acid to target dark spots, hyperpigmentation and dullness. After just three days of using it, I was shocked by how brighter my complexion appeared.

Bobbi Brown Extra Eye Repair Cream

Bobbi Brown just gets it! I’m a huge fan of the makeup maestro’s namesake stick foundation, brick highlighters and much more. So when the brand gifted me this eye cream for Mother’s Day 2020, I was overjoyed! I’ve been using it faithfully since May and my undereye area is smoother and brighter. Every mother needs this in her skincare arsenal.

Rose Ingleton MD Signature Moisturizer

Okay, so when I added Dr. Ingleton’s serum to my shopping cart, I decided I needed to round it out with her moisturizer. And that was a very smart decision. Drawing inspiration from her Jamaican heritage, this face cream has a blend of tropical ingredients, including bilberry, sugarcane, orange lemon, and of course, shea butter, vitamins C and E. It’s lightweight and hydrating — making it ideal for summertime or underneath makeup.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

To complete my P.M. skincare routine, I smooth on this cult-favorite overnight lip mask. The berry scent is heavenly, and it just gets the job done!

Hey Beauties: Have you experienced maskne? What beauty products or treatments have you done to tackle the acne caused by wearing face masks? Let’s discuss!