Masks serve as fashion, protection

Masks+serve+as+fashion%2C+protection

Since the full onset of the coronavirus pandemic, masks have become a staple in our everyday lives. These masks have been responsible for countless problems like maskne (mask-related acne) and breathing difficulties.

However, there is a bright side to spending most of the day with half of your face covered. That is the numerous places you can buy masks of different shapes, designs and colors to suit your style.

One celebrity that people associate with mask fashion is Billie Eilish. The young singer/songwriter appeared at the 2020 Grammys sporting an eye-catching Louis Vuitton mask. This was an attempt at glamorizing face-coverings, so they seem like something more than just protective equipment but a part of your personal style.

Yet, non-celebrities were way ahead of Billie. Not long into the quarantine, a lot of people started to try their hand at making masks as a way to solve the shortage of face-coverings both in-stores and online. Homemade masks are also a great way for the public to spare the clinical masks for the health-care workers that are fighting to protect us at the forefront of the pandemic.

According to the CDC, masks are recommended barrier to help prevent respiratory droplets from spreading viruses to others. This implies that some materials used as masks would be less effective than others.

Some people took to their household items to create the ideal face mask that both reflects their personality and lets them breathe. Some of these masks are made from woolen materials, bandanas and even denim.

According to Healthline, the most effective homemade face masks are those made with tightly woven fabric. Bandanas are not effective, surgical face masks are and N95 masks have to be properly fitted and should only be worn by those who need them.

As long as you are using a material that provides maximum protection for both you and the people around you, feel free to buy that hot red mask that says “Don’t Mess With Me.” Feel free to express yourself through the styles of your face coverings. You now have one new way to make a statement.