Mask braces are now advised for extra protection against Covid-19
A brace can make your face cover nearly as effective as a surgical mask, according to a new study.

By Emma Dooney
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.
A post shared by Fix The Mask (@fixthemask)
A photo posted by on
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.
-
-
The best mascaras for sensitive eyes: our favorite delicate formulations
For those with delicate eyes or skin, finding the best mascaras for sensitive eyes takes a little more care and attention.
By Ayesha Muttucumaru •
-
Kobe Bryant widow Vanessa publicly criticizes rapper Meek Mill for lacking 'respect' and 'tact' over song lyric
The widow of the late basketball legend has lashed out at the rapper for 'insensitive' lyric referencing her husband
By Selina Maycock •
-
Kobe Bryant widow Vanessa publicly criticizes rapper Meek Mill for lacking 'respect' and 'tact' over song lyric
The widow of the late basketball legend has lashed out at the rapper for 'insensitive' lyric referencing her husband
By Selina Maycock •
-
Silent vibrator sales have rocketed during lockdown
Shh! The sales of quiet sex toys have skyrocketed during lockdown
By Laura Harman •
-
Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen team up for unlikely project
The former President has started a new venture with legendary singer-songwriter
By Selina Maycock •
-
When are self-catering holidays allowed in the UK and how far can you travel?
What are the new rules about holidays following the new UK lockdown announcement?
By Laura Harman •
-
A doctor explains the best ways to strengthen your Covid-19 vaccine
Dr. Michael Mosley shares his best tips on boosting the effectiveness of your vaccine
By Emma Dooney •
-
This is how Sarah Ferguson won over Prince Philip and the royal family
How Sarah Ferguson managed to win over the royal family
By Laura Harman •
-
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to help rebuild women’s shelter in Texas
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have provided financial aid to a Dallas domestic violence shelter after it was destroyed by Storm Uri
By Emma Dooney •
-
The Queen’s distant cousin, Simon Bowes-Lyon, is jailed for sexual assault at Glamis Castle
Simon Bowes-Lyon, a distant cousin of The Queen, has been jailed for attacking a woman
By Laura Harman •