Essential Oils for Face Mask Comfort
Let’s face it, wearing a mask is uncomfortable. And if you have to wear it for a long period of time because you’re an essential worker, it can become irritating. Essential oils and essential oil products may help you manage your comfort level by adding coolness and calmness. You can use oils before you put the mask on and after you take it off.
It is important if you are using the essential oils directly on your skin that you follow label directions. Please dilute oils with a carrier oil before using. If you are new to essential oils and are not familiar with safe practices, please ask.
BEFORE THE MASK
Fresh breath
This first suggestion probably seems like a no-brainer, but a great tasting toothpaste and long-lasting mouthwash are certainly going to help keep your breath fresh, which is important. And if you are allowed to take a break during the day, brushing or rinsing with mouthwash again can refresh you whether you wear a mask or not. Try adding a drop of Thieves or Peppermint Vitality to your toothbrush. If that’s too hot for you, consider Thieves toothpaste and mouthwash. In between breaks, mints and gum are helpful.
Use oil under your tongue (sublingual)
Assuming you brushed your teeth at home, by the time you get to work, you may feel the need for additional refreshment before you put your mask on. Putting Thieves Vitality under your tongue can give you a fresh taste, a fresh scent, and may help support to your immune system. You could also use peppermint vitality or another favorite vitality oil.
Use oil under your nose
Adding an oil under your nose will allow you to inhale it for an extended period, making your breathing more comfortable. Oils rubbed on the skin, especially in a sensitive area like your upper lip, should be diluted with a fatty oil (olive, grapeseed, coconut) before applying. Choose eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, or any oil that you enjoy and helps you stay calm.
Add a protective barrier
Having something rub on your skin all day is irritating. If you coat your skin with a thin protective layer on the areas of your skin where the mask makes contact, you may be more comfortable. One possible solution is lip balm. I’d suggest lavender. Before putting on your mask, apply a light, smooth layer across the area where the mask will touch your skin. You could also make your own barrier stick using coconut oil and shea butter. You can find the recipe here.
Spray the mask
Spraying your mask will help you inhale a pleasant scent while you are under the mask. You can use essential oils to make your own spray or buy a product already made. DIY mask spray is easy to make.
What you need:
- A four (4) ounce spray bottle.
- Add 2 ounces of witch hazel.
- Add 2 ounces of distilled water.
- Add 10-20 drops of essential oil.
- Shake and spray.
Which oils should you choose? Peppermint is great for a cooling feeling. Other choices will support calming. Single oils suggestions like Frankincense, Thieves, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lavender or blends like Valor, Stress Away, Peace & Calming, and Breathe Again. If you don’t want your mask to be wet, spray the air and then wave your mask through the air. Repeat until you feel your mask has the strength of scent you desire. For pre-made mask sprays, consider Lavender Cooling Mist or Thieves Spray.
DURING THE DAY
Stay hydrated
It’s important to stay hydrated during the day. Staying hydrated flushes toxins from your system, keeps your energy level up, helps curb your appetite, and nourishes your skin. And you want to take good care of your skin. Adding essential oils to your water can make it more appealing as well as provide therapeutic benefits. Citrus oils are a good choice; however, please be sure you use a glass or metal container. You don’t want to add citrus oils to plastic bottles.
Reapply
When you get a break where you can take your mask off, repeat any routines that are helpful. This is the time to use mouthwash, apply more protective barrier, or spray your mask again.
AFTER THE MASK
Take care of your skin
After wearing a mask for a long period, it is important to wash off your makeup and the dirt, grime, and impurities you picked up throughout the day. Follow these steps for great skin care.
- Cleanse. Use a good soap and hot water. Use facial care products that are plant-based and effective.
- Tone. You want a toner that gently removes impurities without drying the skin. Toner can also be a good mid-day refreshment for your skin.
- Moisturize. A good moisturizer helps your skin retain and maintain proper hydration.
Take care of yourself
The best thing you can do is to take care of yourself. Eat healthy meals and get enough rest. Essential oils support calm, restful sleep. Two favorite calming oils are Lavender and Frankincense.
Hopefully, one or more of these tips will help you become more comfortable with your face mask. What routines do you find helpful? Let me know in the comments.