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You have to wear a mask, right? But are you wearing the right mask that will be most effective in stopping the spread of COVID-19? That’s a valid question on the minds of a lot of us, especially with the variants of the virus that are emerging – that are more easily spread and possibly even more deadly.
We want to do our part, and experts are saying it's time to up our mask game to combat the spread of COVID-19. There are so many different types of masks and face coverings, so we did some research to help you find the best ones, how to wear them, and how to keep them clean.
What is an N95 mask and should I be wearing one?
Experts agree that the N95 mask is the most effective mask to wear to prevent particles from penetrating. It filters both large and small particles and are also known as disposable respirators. They come in many shapes and sizes and are disposable.
When used properly, the N95 mask traps particles as small as 0.3 microns up to 95% of the time. You might be wondering how small the COVID-19 particles are: 0.1 micron in diameter. Don’t mistake the small particle size of the COVID virus as being able to easily penetrate the filter of the N95 mask. The reason the mask is so effective is that in most cases, the COVID particles are emitted through respiratory droplets that are much bigger than 0.3 microns, thus catching them before they penetrate.
On top of that, the N95 mask is comprised of material that have an electrical charge. Since virus molecules don’t travel is straight lines, their zig-zag pattern and the electrostatic fabric trap and hold the virus. This is why the N95 is considered the best mask type.
Two is better than one: How to double mask
The N95 is the best mask to wear but that isn’t to say you should trust just one mask. Experts are recommending double masking as being more effective, and this was prevalent at the Inauguration of President Joe Biden last month – Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and his husband were seen doubling up on their face masks as were many other in attendance.
Dr. Anthony Fauci agrees with the method. “So if you have a physical covering with one layer, you put another layer on it, it just makes common sense that it likely will be more effective,” he told TODAY.
But is there a way to best wear two masks?
New research suggests that by wearing a surgical mask, or N95 mask, under a cloth mask, you can block up to 70% of the fine particles transmitting COVID. So you can enjoy the fashion statement of your cute, floral cloth mask while maximizing protection with an N95 mask underneath.
If you don’t have an N95 mask or want something reusable, you can use two layers of tightly woven cotton fabric. This should be more effective than one mask. But make sure they fit properly.
“When looking for a face mask choose one that has ear loops as opposed to ties – ties can loosen and may fall off and become annoying,” Elizabeth Mullans, M.D., Board- Certified Dermatologist at Uptown Dermatology told Mom.com. The mask should be secure so it doesn’t slide down your nose and wraps across your face covering your mouth. You don’t want gaps on the side of the mask.
How to clean your face mask
Cleaning your reusable mask is as important as wearing it properly. “Most face masks will trap sweat and moisture, which along with friction from the fabric can disrupt the skin's protective barrier. This can result in irritation of the skin. Residue from laundry detergent can also become embedded in the fabric and cause further irritation,” Dr. Mullans said. “It is best to use a hypoallergenic detergent such as Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin, Free & Clear.”
This is important because if you aren’t able to wear a new facemask every day, you need to make sure your mask is clean. It’s also important to wash and dry the mask at the highest temperature setting to ensure all bacteria is killed.
For those who find that wearing a mask is creating skin irritation, you can do what mom Jene Luciani Sena recommended. “Find one that has skincare ingredients infused into the fabric to fight acne,” she told Mom.com.
Dr. Mullans also told us that during harsh winter months, use a strong moisturizer under the mask and when it is hot, change it more frequently since you’ll sweat in it and get it soiled faster.
