The New Normal… Masks!

Covid-19, a word that changed our concept of lifestyle and luxury. The world is dependent on this accessory like wearing a watch. But isn’t this highly uncomfortable though mandatory. There are a lot of standards out there like N95, KN95, KF94 which you may come across when you go looking for a mask which can be very confusing.

So how should you choose a mask for yourself and your loved ones?

There are a few factors to be considered when selecting an appropriate mask:

Standard: If you Google N95 vs KN95 vs KF94 or any other standard, you would most probably end up on a site that will give you the technical specs of these standards, only to confuse you more. The important thing to know is that these are all standards defined by various agencies across the globe which rate the filtration, and none of them can truly block a coronavirus.

An average coronavirus is only 0.125 microns in size and there is always a possibility of it to penetrate your mask. So which one should you choose? The answer is none of them. What you need is a mask that has a virus shield and kills the virus itself, rather than blocking it and in turn suffocating you. These virus shields may be marketed as health-guard, virus-shield, living-guard, etc. The important thing to note is that you need to buy a brand that you trust.

Breathability: This is an important factor while choosing your mask, especially for people with preexisting respiratory ailments. This is an important factor for children as well as people who believe in a rigorous workout.

Fit: Masks need to have adjustable straps which makes it comfortable for everyone, if masks are not adjustable it gets a little harsh and painful behind the ear. Some masks now come with hooks that go around the head which is a more convenient option.

Fogging: This factor applies to people with glasses since masks and glasses get tricky. Masks need to cover and block the top part so that you don’t end up breathing into your glasses.

Odors: Make sure you wash your mask before using it except for the disposable ones. Masks tend to have a peculiar smell when bought, these smells can hamper your comfort and may end up giving you a headache.

Reusability: Every mask has a duration till it should be worn, for example a disposable mask should not be worn for more than 04 hours.

Let me share a few of the masks that my husband and I came across;

1. Fine guard N95 mask

⭐⭐⭐

Rating: 3 out of 5.

Easy washable, odorless, and seems like an effective mask since it covers the mouth to a large extent. Slightly uncomfortable after multiple usages and gets rough on the edges. Avoid wearing this mask during workouts, may get suffocating. Existing easy adjustable straps, much needed. Fogging tends to happen with this mask if not worn properly. The mask has a huge Fine logo at the corner.

2. Jockey Everyday Face Mask (Color- Imperial Blue)-

⭐⭐⭐

Rating: 3 out of 5.

Washable, everyday wear mask. Extremely soft from inside and comfortable/ breathable to wear all day. Fogging is minimal but needs to be adjusted well on your face. There is a peculiar fabric odor that may go after a few washes. It’s available in varied dark colors. The mask has a small Jockey logo at the corner.

3. Disposable masks–

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Highly comfortable, not washable, and not reusable masks. They can be used for a few hours but doesn’t justify safety after about 05 hours. They are available at each and every pharmacy and come in light blue, black, light pink, and white color. Some packages can have defective masks, please check your package or try one odd mask before buying.

NOTE- A lot of people complain about mouth odor after wearing masks for an extended period of time. It’s perfectly natural to experience this. This happens because due to the masks restriction of airflow, you end up breathing with your mouth, causing the saliva in your mouth to dry out and bacteria to grow.

If you experience this, you can start brushing your teeth before you leave your house, keep sipping water, and try and find a more breathable mask.