CLEVELAND, Ohio — There are a lot of things that can cause acne, but we know one of the big ones is bacteria.

When we go out and put our mask on, it creates heat and moisture, which is the perfect environment for bacteria to grow on the skin. But doctors say that isn't a reason to stop wearing your mask. You just need to put a little extra effort into the way you clean your face and your mask.

“The big thing that we recommend to prevent is going to be a good skincare regimen. So, you know, that's keeping the keeping the face hydrated. keeping, keeping the face clean,” said Dr. Austin Williams at Kettering Health Network.

Dr. Williams says there are easy things you can do to prevent “Maskne.”

“I would first recommend the regular over-the-counter acne therapy, the benzoyl peroxide, salicylates, things like that. If it's getting really bad and you're getting like big areas of angry red inflammation, go see your family doctor. You may need some topical antibiotics or you may need a stronger something.”

Washing your masks often is a must. If you’re acne-prone, make sure your mask is made of cotton.

"It’s going to be easier on the skin than polyester or something like that would be,” said Dr. Williams.

If you’re wearing a stronger mask, like an N95, other skin issues can easily arise.

“With any, with any areas that are actually irritated by the masks, you see the pictures of like ICU nurses and doctors that have big indents from from the N95s. Vaseline is actually going to be really helpful for that. It brings down the irritation of the skin,” said Williams.

But even with these potential skin issues, Williams says continuing to wear a mask is the most important thing.

“The big point I am going to drive home every time I'm asked about this, I know that the masks are uncomfortable, especially in the summer. I know that this topic, the mask being, you know, inconvenient or even painful for some people, but as bad as things are getting, please, please, please wear your mask,” said Williams