sheet masks are terrible for acne prone + oily skin types
Sheet masks for oily skin or for acne prone skin can actually increase bacteria on the surface skin since your skin is trapped under the sheet mask, which can cause breakouts.
Schaffran suggests giving it a wash every one to two days, depending on how often you're wearing the mask. And of course, if you can safely take a break from wearing a mask, this helps let your skin breathe better, Dr. Richmond says.
“Masks impose heat, friction and occlusion on the skin and when combined with a moist environment from breathing, talking or sweating, this is a recipe for breakouts,” Dao says. “Pores get clogged and can become pimples or acne cysts.
If you want to spend your beauty bucks wisely, Dr. Nazarian recommends face masks for boosting hydration, fading hyperpigmentation, and helping to diminish breakouts, all of which you can notice improvement with weekly use.
Wash your skin twice a day with a mild soap. Don't use a brush or washcloth — use your fingers instead. Over-the-counter skin cleansers that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can be applied to affected areas to help the pimples clear.
Silk is a natural anti-microbial fiber that does not clog pores – making it the best option for your skin! It helps keep your skin hydrated and wicks away moisture, which helps prevent pimples, blackheads, and breakouts.
“Silk is better than other fabrics because it is more breathable and less abrasive, meaning it causes less friction and restriction on the skin.” Dr. King agrees and adds: “The nature of silk will also be less irritating as less heat and moisture will build up.”
“Satin, silk and bamboo are better for acne-prone skin because they're less absorbent and do not draw oil away from the face,” said VanHoose.
If your sheets are bacteria ridden, they can cause acne breakouts on your skin. Normal cotton sheets are woven in a way where the fibers can trap sweat and bacteria. As your body expels heat when you are sleeping, the fibers catch the heat, which promotes your sweat glands' activities and often produce more sebum.
To prevent new breakouts from developing overnight, she recommends switching your pillowcase anywhere from every few days to daily (more often if you regularly wear makeup or are particularly acne-prone.) And yes, these guidelines apply even if you wash your face right before bed each night.
Bedroom Breakouts
Is your acne worse and you can't figure out why? Your dirty pillowcase could be to blame. The embedded dirt, dead skin, and bacteria can clog your pores. If you have bad breakouts, change your pillowcases every 2-3 days and the rest of your bedding once a week.