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Choosing the Right Face Mask for You
Choosing the Right Face Mask for You
A flu protection mask is one of the primary essentials to prevent coronavirus from spreading. By now, you already know a lot about the importance of face masks. SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted by respiratory droplets when a person coughs, sneezes or talks. So, to protect yourself and others, just wearing masks isn’t enough.

What Types of Masks You Must Use for Protection

A flu protection mask is one of the primary essentials to prevent coronavirus from spreading. By now, you already know a lot about the importance of face masks. SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted by respiratory droplets when a person coughs, sneezes or talks. So, to protect yourself and others, just wearing masks isn’t enough.

There are so many types of face masks available in the market. Depending on where you are going and the number of people you will come in contact with, you need to know what type of masks will give the maximum protection.

3 ply face masks

Also known as surgical face masks, these masks may look very thin but are among the most in-demand masks in the market for everyday use. They have a three-layer protection system to prevent bacteria, viruses from transmitting. Super breathable and readily available, they have around 95% efficiency in protecting from the spread of coronavirus. However, if not worn properly, there can be leakage.

 3 ply masks


So, while buying 3 ply masks, remember to check if the nose bridge is working properly. Go for a tighter fit, as it will loosen up after some time. 3 ply masks can shield 3.0 microns or larger viruses from entering your body with 95% Bacterial Filtration Efficiency. They are made with a combination of paper and plastic, usually in light blue colour.

One slight drawback of these masks is that they cannot be reused or washed like cloth masks. They are perfect for one-time use. But they come in a bunch and are quite affordable.

N95 or professional-grade masks

They are professional-level flu protection masks used by healthcare workers and first-line respondents. The World Health Organization has strictly recommended that civilians avoid using medical grade face masks or respiratory masks, as they are an essential part of PPE supply for first-line workers.

N95 respirators need to fit perfectly, as a poor seal can compromise the effectiveness of the mask. They are specially designed for healthcare workers to give complete protection against droplets in the air.

Due to their design and extremely tight fit, they can be uncomfortable to wear for a long time. The first-line workers undergo a detailed test to ensure the fit of the mask as it needs to create a complete seal. The general public is unavailable to the service; therefore, masks can get wasted if not fitted perfectly.

Cloth masks

Multiple layers of fabric are used to make these cloth face masks with ear loops or ties. These fabrics create a barrier between the respiratory organs of your body and outside, thus containing the droplets from getting transmitted. The more layer the mask has, the better is the protection.

One of the significant advantages of cloth face masks is that they are reusable, washable, and can be used multiple times.

But it is better to used cloth masks where you have a lesser risk of getting contaminated. Not all of them can prevent smaller bacteria and viruses from spreading.

If going out in public wearing a cloth mask, it is recommended to wear a good quality face shield from Keplin. The face shield can cover the entire front and sides of the face giving you the extra barrier you need while wearing cloth masks.

Face shields

Technically it is not a face mask, but face shields were initially designed for healthcare workers. They were worn for performing procedures to avoid body fluid spatter. So, you can very well imagine the efficiency of face shields in protecting virus transmission.

face shields

They are transparent plastic sheets that cover your entire face from the forehead to the chin. But healthcare experts recommend using face masks as respiratory droplets can enter through the opening under the chin.

KN95 face masks

KN95 masks are European FFP2 certified face masks that give almost five layers of protection. They are some of the best commercial masks available in the market, with a 95% protection guarantee against large and tiny airborne droplets.

These face masks with ear loops and a mouldable nose seal offer secure prevention of fluids contamination. For people allergic to pollens or dust, these masks are nothing new.
KN95 masks are breathable and can be used for everyday purposes.

Some tips for using face masks

Face masks help people from getting contaminated with viruses or bacteria via respiratory organs

• Avoid touching your mask while wearing it. Clean your hands immediately with a hand sanitiser if you touch them.
• Non-washable masks like surgical masks should be disposed of in a closed garbage bag soon after use.
• For the average person, there is no need to wear N95 professional-grade masks. Reserve them for healthcare and first-line workers.
• Wash Cloth masks properly after every use.
• Get your PPE supplies from reputed sellers so that you use genuine products.