Your Guide to Safe and Comfortable Face Masks
Face coverings have become an essential wardrobe component during the coronavirus pandemic. Fortunately, complying with the CDC’s advice doesn’t need to translate into ongoing discomfort. Here’s how to comfortably wear your face coverings without compromising safety. Healthcare workers have been dealing with the pain of face masks and have come up with some great tips.
The elastic ear loops on my face mask irritate my ears. Am I doing something wrong?
Irritated ears are a real annoyance, but some products and hacks may help.
You can try the “ear saver,” a double-sided clip worn behind the head with four different hook levels. Loop the elastics on the hook that best fits your head to relieve the pressure on your ears.
You can also try sewing a pair of buttons onto a headband or baseball cap to use similarly. Measure the placement of the buttons carefully, placing them at the right spot to hook the elastic loops of your face mask.
I wear eyeglasses, and my breath fogs the lenses when I put on a face covering. Is there any way around this?
First, try to tighten your covering. Dr. Richard Martinello, professor of infectious diseases at Yale, says a tighter fit will prevent air from escaping your mask and fogging up your glasses.
The most natural solution to prevent your breath’s warm, moist air from hitting your glasses is to place a folded tissue between your mouth and the mask. Also, make sure the top of your mask is tight and the bottom looser to help direct your exhaled breath away from your eyes.
Some other solutions to the clouded-up glasses problem include using a commercial anti-fogging spray or using a thicker fabric for your homemade face covering.
Do I need to wear a face-covering every time I leave my house?
The CDC has recommended that all Americans wear face coverings when out in public; however, even in states where face coverings are now law, they are not required to be worn every time people leave their homes. In general, face coverings are recommended (or required) in public areas where social distancing is impossible to adhere to at all times.
It’s best to use common sense to determine when you need to wear a face covering. For example, if you live in a suburban area with lots of space between the houses, you likely do not need to wear a mask when going for a jog. However, if you live in an apartment building in a densely populated area, you may need to cover your face every time you leave your home.
What do I need to know about the proper way to wear a mask?
Most importantly, ensure your mask covers your nostrils and entire mouth at all times. A tight fit that allows for breathing is equally important.
Be careful when removing your mask, as well. The CDC advises people not to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth when taking off a face covering and to wash their hands immediately after doing so.
With these tips, you can have safe and comfortable face masks. It makes it easier to wear if they are more comfortable. Stay safe and as always, Elevate Credit Union is here for you. Need a little loan during COVID-19? Check out our special loans.
