[How to wear and choose a mask]
Masks are used not only to prevent dust while cleaning, to prevent colds and influenza, and to prevent pollen, but also to prevent fine particles in the air such as yellow sand and PM2.5. There are many types of masks available in stores, such as those for pollen and those that cut viruses, but what are the differences? Choose a mask according to your purpose and use it more effectively by wearing it correctly!
■Gauze mask and non-woven mask
In the past, masks used to refer to gauze masks made of layers of gauze, but now masks made of non-woven fabric have become mainstream.・Characteristics of gauze mask
Some gauze masks are combined with special filters, but they are generally less effective at blocking small particles such as viruses than non-woven masks. However, gauze masks have excellent heat retention and moisturizing properties, and are suitable for when your throat hurts due to dry air or for "throat care" at bedtime.
・Characteristics of non-woven masks
Non-woven fabrics are made by combining fibers in various ways without weaving them.The fineness of the mesh can be adjusted by layering non-woven fabrics or using filters, and since they are basically disposable, they can be used hygienically. can.
Non-woven masks come in pleated and three-dimensional shapes, but the function of the mask varies depending on the filter used, so it is difficult to determine which shape is better.
・Pleated type : It flexibly responds to the movements of your mouth, so it won't shift easily even when you're talking .
・Three-dimensional type : There is a space between the mask and the mouth, so there is less suffocation , and makeup such as lipstick does not stick to the mask .
■What does surgical mask mean?
"Surgical" originally meant "surgical use," and now surgical masks broadly refer to medical masks. Currently, gauze masks are not often used in medical settings, so they can also be referred to as surgical masks = non-woven masks.
■Choose a mask according to your purpose
★The difference is the fineness of the filter! The size of particles that can be cut differs.
There are many types of masks, but the size of the particles that can be cut differs depending on the filter used in the mask, and they are broadly classified by the fineness of the filter's mesh.
Size of particles such as pollen and viruses
Cedar pollen 30-40μm
Yellow sand 0.5 to 5 μm (* Most of the particles that come to Japan are 4 μm in size)
PM2.5 2.5μm or less
Influenza virus approximately 0.1μm
●Pollen mask
The size of cedar pollen is 30 to 40 μm, so ``pollen'' masks have a filter that can cut particles of this size. Depending on the product, small particles such as influenza viruses may not be cut properly. However, it has good breathability, so you don't feel stuffy and it feels great to use.
●Virus cut mask
There are masks that use fine-mesh filters that can even cut out viruses, and masks that use special filters that can effectively cut out viruses.
●N95 standard mask
It is mainly used to prevent infection in medical settings and as a dust mask. This mask can almost cut out even particles as small as 0.075μm. However, the fine mesh of the filter makes it difficult to breathe, so it is not suitable for long-term use.
Three major points when using a mask
★Choose the size that suits your face size
・For women and children, choose a smaller size or one for children.
★Attach so that there are no gaps.
・If the mask has a wire on the nose, bend the wire before putting on the mask.
・Stretch out the pleats to completely cover your chin. Be careful not to stretch the pleats too much as this can easily create gaps in your cheeks.
★Avoid touching the filter during and after use.
・Do not touch the filter part that covers the area around your mouth while using it.
・When removing the filter, hold the rubber strap to avoid touching the filter and remove it from your face.
・Wash your hands after removing your mask.
