The Best Face Masks
In Asia, it's common to see people donning face masks in public. The trend has only recently reached the States, and it's a good thing it's here. A face mask can do wonders to protect against pollution, germs when you're in a tightly packed area, and even environmental elements such as dust and other harsh chemicals floating around in our air. Though the abundance of choices isn't necessarily a bad thing, it can become difficult when you're trying to choose what's right for you. Read on to see some of our favorite options. We promise we've got you, erm ... covered.
Doset Cloth Washable Mask
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Every day, we’re exposed to unwanted particles that permeate our space, from smog to pollen to dust. And while wearing a mask to protect ourselves from those things is helpful, wearing a mask that’s dirty probably isn’t going to help as much. That’s why we love these masks. All you have to do is throw them in the laundry with the rest of your things, and voila — they’re good as new. They’re also made from extremely soft material that won’t stiffen or become rough after it’s been through the washing machine. What’s more, this mask has a high breathability factor while remaining lightweight enough to wear during warmer months.
Pros:
- Ear bands can be easily adjusted
- Comes in packs of three in a variety of designs and colors
Con:
- Wire over the bridge of the nose can be sharp and should be handled carefully
Corevival Kids Anti-Microbial Face Mask
Small In Size, Not Protection
Let’s face it: kids are exposed to germs constantly, and the younger they are, the less they probably care about protecting themselves against them. But these little masks are here to alleviate some concern, and we’re sure your child won’t even mind wearing them since they’re so soft. They’re super light, too, so no worries about being able to breathe during recess or soccer practice. Also, instead of a potentially uncomfortable wire over the nose, these masks have a much more comfy fabric nose flap that creates a small seal to keep this secure on the face. Lastly, this mask has not only one, but two filtered layers to provide extra protection.
Pros:
- Machine-washable (cold water only)
- There are thoughtfully placed arrows on the inside of the mask to make sure your child is wearing it correctly
Con:
- Only available in one size
Perry Ellis Reusable Woven Fabric Face Masks
Breathe In, Breathe Out
“Maskne.” Heard of it yet? A portmanteau of the words “mask” and “acne”, for those of us with sensitive skin, it’s an all-too-real issue we have to deal with. Though a mask may protect your immune system from germs, it can also, unfortunately, be a breeding ground for bacteria on your face. However, these masks are a great solution, as they’re made from 100% super-breathable cotton, which allows for your face to be protected while still feeling light and airy. These masks also have an adjustable wire over the nose to help alleviate fogging if you wear glasses, and they come in multipacks, so you’ll never be left stranded without one.
Pros:
- Lining includes a pocket where a filter can be inserted for extra protection
- Made by a trusted brand to ensure the quality is top-notch
- Machine-washable
Con:
- May have a chemical smell upon opening, so it’s best to wash these before using
Case-Mate Cloth Face Mask With Filter
You Get What You Give
These masks are made from a cotton/poly blend and come complete with disposable filters, so you can rest assured that you’re getting a high level of protection. Another plus about this particular item is the uniqueness in the straps: first off, the two that loop around your ears are made of the same soft fabric as the rest of the mask — not string — which makes them much more comfortable. Additionally, these also have a “comfort strap” in the very back that comes in handy if you feel like you need a bit of relief. Just secure the back strap around your neck, and your mask will still stay in place without tugging or putting tension on your ears.
Pros:
- Comes in tons of colors and patterns
- Available in multiple sizes
- With every mask purchased, this company will donate one to someone in need
Con:
- Material may cause glasses to fog up
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know that I’m wearing my mask correctly to keep out as many germs as possible?
One of the most important things to take into consideration is the shape of your face. There are three common forms of masks — flat, pleated, and conical — and each has different advantages. For example, a pleated design may fit better for those who have noses that sit higher up, whereas a cone-shaped mask might be better for those with a round face shape, as it leaves more room for wider cheeks. Another thing to be aware of is the material, as well as how many layers the mask has. If you hold your mask up towards the light and a lot is seeping through, that indicates that the mask may not be as effective as you’d like it to be. And of course, a multi-layer mask will provide more protection than a single layer.
Should I be wearing an N95 mask?
Unless you’re working in the healthcare field, no, an N95 mask is not necessary. A cloth mask will work just fine for a layperson, as we are not exposed to the number of germs and fluid that doctors and nurses are daily. Additionally, another thing to acknowledge is that these specific masks are typically in high demand, and should be reserved for those who really need them to do their jobs.
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.