Face Masks Causing Acne Problems?

by Dr. Rebecca Butler (Lantana Resident), Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics & Nnenna Agim, M.D., pediatric dermatologist at Children’s Health (for the following tips)

940.455.7200 LantanaPediatrics.com

74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 Bartonville, TX 76226

Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-6pm Wed: 7:30am-1pm | Fri: 7:30am-5pm Sat: 9am-12pm

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Wearing a mask is vital to prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, this practice may be causing people more acne troubles. I have seen many teens and young adults lately with complaints about worsening or new acne and other skin irritations. These mask-related acne problems, known as “maskne” are becoming more common the longer we wear facial coverings.

How face masks cause acne flares:

Wearing a mask physically blocks pores, and that can trigger the first step in the pathway that causes acne. There are millions of microorganisms on the skin, including bacteria. Some bacteria are good, helping care for your skin. Others are detrimental to skin and can cause breakouts. When your face is covered with a mask, you are changing the usual environment of your skin to a more humid environment, which leads to the “sticky” situation that causes breakouts.

How to prevent maskne:

We cannot control all the factors related to maskne. We still need to wear a mask and wear it correctly — over our nose and mouth. When you are at home without a mask, here are some important tips for caring for your skin.

Wash your face every day. Use a gentle cleanser on the skin each day. Avoid products that are too harsh, as this may disrupt the balance of bacteria on the face and damage the skin. (Remember we need to “good” bacteria to survive for our skin to thrive!)

Avoid heavy face products. When using moisturizers, make sure to pick the lightest moisturizer possible. Skip makeup or use an oil-free product if makeup cannot be avoided. The same goes for sunscreen.

Take care of your mask. Masks should be washed regularly. If the mask is 100% cotton, it will help the skin breathe. After wearing a cloth face mask, it’s a good idea to wash it in hot water using a fragrancefree, hypoallergenic detergent.

Clean your face at the end of the day. You can use over-the-counter products that contain keratolytics, which are medications that unstick the cells and unblock pores. Azelaic acid may also help, with the added benefit of reducing skin discoloration.

Talk to your pediatrician or a dermatologist if severe acne doesn’t go away. If your maskne has gotten severe and painful despite regular washing, there are prescription-strength topical and oral treatments that can help resolve the problem.

Walking In ADental WONDERLAND

by Steve Gamel | photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)

One of the perks of living in the Lantana area is having the opportunity to confidently choose from the best healthcare providers around. When it comes to dental care, it only takes a quick inquiry from your neighbor to learn that Dr. Matt Artho and his team at Country Lakes Family Dental have a reputation of exceeding expectations.

That’s because, from Day 1, Dr. Matt put in place his vision of a neighborhood dental practice that provides the latest in dental treatments and state-of-the-art technology. More importantly, he created a one-stop dental practice that provides a welcoming, comfortable experience for the entire family.

Being that this is the holiday season, dare experience that truly makes Country Lakes Family Dental a “Dental Wonderland!”

Those who personally know Dr. Matt and his qualifications also know of his remarkable background.

Originally a graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Dr. Matt sought a field that fulfilled his desire for a more personal, service-related vocation. What followed was a path that included an enlistment in the Texas Army National Guard, graduating from Texas A&M College of Dentistry, completion of an Advanced in General Dentistry residency, and receiving the honor as a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. Additionally, his honors include being DFW Mom Approved and Best of Denton County eight years in a row! A new and welcome addition to the team, Country Lakes Dental recently brought on Dr. Lauren Smits, whose notable qualifications are only matched with her charm. A graduate of the University Notre Dame, Dr. Lauren received her dental degree from Indiana University of Dental School. In par with their focus on family, Dr. Lauren is a wife of 10 years with three kids, and Dr. Matt is 18

we say that it is this all-encompassing years married with 9 children!

In addition to boasting an experienced background, a key mission for Dr. Matt and his growing team at Country Lakes Family Dental is to consistently stay on top of the latest dental techniques and technology.

“Digital technology is becoming more and more prevalent in dentistry, but this has been the standard for this practice since the beginning.” He explained with 3D printing, the practice features only digital impressions without “goopy” material. Regarding digital x-rays, he states, “Digital radiography is not only safer, but 3D scanning allows us to take an in depth analysis for many treatments. For instance,

the placement of dental implants, and toothbrushes to novel and changing detecting canals for root canal therapy, dental treatments. For instance, Dr. and preplanning orthodontic or Lauren states, “Toothpastes can come with Invisalign treatment.” different types of fluoride or abrasives that Both Dr. Matt and Dr. Lauren also have can have varying effects on your teeth. We can help patients decide what works proficiency in utilizing technology for best for their needs.” same day cosmetic treatments like crowns or veneers. Their latest Both Dr. Matt and Dr. Lauren also equipment includes a dental laser that not ...dare we say mentioned new considerations on mouth only allows for certain that it is this all- rinses and flossing gum, lip and tongue tie encompassing devices. When it comes surgeries, but is able experience that to dental procedures, to complete fillings without anesthesia; a bonus especially for their pediatric population. As Dr. Lauren reinforced, truly makes Country Lakes Family Dental a “Dental Wonderland!” certain dental marketing promotions often do not describe the entirety of the procedures. Dr. Matt and Dr. Lauren make it “We love seeing patients a priority to thoroughly of all ages, and the technology makes it so explain all treatment details and educate much easier for our patients — especially patients by showing them their x-rays, for our kids.” photos, digital simulations, and treatment timelines. Dr. Matt elaborates, “Staying on Between proficiency and equipment, top of dental technology and treatment the team at Country Lakes Dental is also give us the opportunity to practice across very apt in staying current with trending a broad spectrum from preventative and dental topics. This is particularly important conservative care to advanced cosmetic since patients routinely ask a variety of and restorative treatment.” The office also questions — from types of toothpastes thrives to stay innovative on making dental care affordable, including an in-house insurance plan that rivals many dental insurance plans.

Dr. Matt also takes helping his community to heart. He and his team have become reliable sponsors to local Lantana groups including the Lantana Wildcats, Lantana Lightning, the Lantana schools and PTAs, as well as donors to local charities including the Lantana Ladies League and Mission Moms. Dr. Matt retains a continued focus on organizations like Grace Like Rain that help support families facing domestic issues and Ranch Hands Rescue, which gives support to children, animals, and veterans in need. Dr. Matt and his wife recently received recognition by Ranch Hands Rescue as honorees of the Ignite Hope Award.

With so much to offer, it is no wonder this award-winning practice continues to be highly recommended for just about anything. Include the incredibly friendly and feel-at-home atmosphere, the hospitality of Country Lakes Family Dental is icing on the cake. A visit to this comprehensive dental practice is truly a walk through a “dental wonderland!”