We've all experienced it at some point during the pandemic, that pesky feeling of a mask that doesn't feel quite right.
From slipping off our faces to pinching at our ears, a good-fitting mask can be as hard to come by as a snug pair of jeans. But with masks scientifically proven to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, there's no excuse for improper use.
It should come as no surprise that mask braces are recommended to get the most protection out of our face coverings.
Research has shown that applying a brace or "fitter" to your mask can significantly enhance its effectiveness, upping its strength to almost that of an N95 or a gold standard medical face mask.
Simply put, the brace locks the mask in place, sealing off any gaps through which air could escape. While store-bought masks are typically produced in a standard size, a brace enables the wearer to adjust the cover to fit their face.
"These reusable devices help improve the fit of a cloth or a medical mask by creating a tight fit,” said Dr. John Brooks, a medical epidemiologist for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Fitters have been scientifically demonstrated to improve filtration performance by as much as 90% or more, which, again, is getting into that range of filtration efficiency afforded by N95 respirators.”
More from woman&home:
- Best eye cream: our favorite formulas for every skin type
- Best moisturizer for dry skin: the beauty editor-approved buys for flaky skin
- Best food processors with a dough blade for baking fans
What exactly does a mask brace look like? Fix the Mask, a startup company based in California has developed the first commercially available mask fitter. Made from a single piece of biocompatible silicone, they come in a range of sizes and feature adjustable straps to ensure the perfect fit.
Tightening your mask's earloops with elastic bands could also achieve a similar effect.
So whether you purchase a brace online or opt for the DIY route, make sure your mask is always fitted securely on your face for the safety of you and others.
-
-
Here’s how Princess Diana would’ve felt about Prince Harry’s US move, according to a royal expert
Would the Duke of Sussex have received Princess Diana's approval?
By Danielle Valente •
-
Fashion designer Michael Costello reveals he's still 'traumatized' over Chrissy Teigen's past bullying
Michael Costello joins the list of people affected by past comments from Chrissy Teigen
By Rylee Johnston •
-
Here’s how Princess Diana would’ve felt about Prince Harry’s US move, according to a royal expert
Would the Duke of Sussex have received Princess Diana's approval?
By Danielle Valente •
-
Fashion designer Michael Costello reveals he's still 'traumatized' over Chrissy Teigen's past bullying
Michael Costello joins the list of people affected by past comments from Chrissy Teigen
By Rylee Johnston •
-
Kate Middleton and Prince William tease new project on Instagram. Here's what we think it may be
Kate Middleton and Prince William shared a teaser for a new project, Big Change Starts Small, and royal fans are wondering what it means.
By Danielle Valente •
-
Princess Diana would have made Prince Harry’s exit from royal family pan out differently if she was alive today, her close friend claims
Princess Diana would have stopped Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from doing the Oprah interview, her friend thinks
By Caitlin Elliott •
-
The most iconic couples of all time—our official list
From modern-day celebrity romances to legendary lovers of the past, here are our top picks on the most iconic couples of all time
By Emma Dooney •
-
Princess Anne’s rare royal title that might be passed on to great-niece Princess Charlotte
Princess Anne is one of only seven British royal women to be honored in this way
By Emma Shacklock •
-
This unearthed video of teenage Meghan Markle shows her sweet relationship with father Thomas before famous falling out
This old footage of teenage Meghan Markle has gone viral
By Caitlin Elliott •
-
Royal fans are obsessed with Zara Tindall's Royal Ascot look—here's why
Zara and Mike Tindall enjoyed their first day out together in months
By Georgia Farquharson •
