Whether we like it or not, face masks have quickly become the newest accessory to our daily look. This integral layer of protection helps prevent the spread of coronavirus, influenza, and other infectious diseases by providing a barrier for respiratory droplets and other airborne particles. Wearing one in public not only prevents your respiratory droplets or bodily fluids from spreading to others, but it also keeps theirs from easily entering your nose and mouth. It protects not only you but also those around you.
But face masks are also equally important for bad air quality, especially to protect those with underlying lung or heart conditions. Fine particles in the air from smoke pollution are harder to filter out with cloth masks. Special particulate respirators are needed instead to prevent harmful particles from entering your lungs.
Overwhelmed yet? Well, we're diving in to see which masks are best for specific situations and we'll go over some face covering pointers that even the saviest of maskers may not know too. Discover everything you need to know about selecting, wearing, and washing a face mask with this simple guide.