Options: the mess of masks
Masks Now with papers and proven efficacy
Protection: Wearing a double mask is not always a good idea
Live, coronavirus, live
Since 2021 began, masks have been a
trending topic
every week.
We have obtained a doctorate in the matter and by now we already know that FFP3 is not necessary for the entire population, that the "double mask" is not always a good idea and, of course, how to choose a good hygienic mask according to the new published order in the BOE last week.
Is there anything left to learn?
Maybe we have forgotten something really important: how to fit the mask.
Because it will be useless to wear "the Ferrari" of the masks on the market if the air (and potential viruses) escapes from the sides.
And it is that the air that we exhale or breathe is a smart and "comfortable" boy who, if he can, will come out where he finds least resistance.
It is estimated that
a poorly fitting surgical mask can release up to 50% of unfiltered exhaled air
.
We analyze the advantages and disadvantages of the most popular tips to improve the fit of masks:
Choose nasal clip or twist-band masks?
The nasal clips, usually metal, are located on the upper edge of the mask "hugging" the nose and preventing the air from escaping over the top.
It is advisable to avoid masks that do not have a nose clip, especially those with vertical seams in which the adjustment to the nose does not occur and the surrounding area is loose, making
"chimney effect"
.
Wear a mask "adjuster"?
These are devices with a circular appearance that, respecting the anatomy, are applied around the mouth, on the mask, also covering the nose.
To hold it, the device usually has rubber bands that are generally hooked to the ears.
There are numerous models, from those made by 3D printing to those made entirely with an elastic material.
The great advantage is that, without a doubt, they can significantly improve the fit of the surgical or hygienic mask.
This option is proposed as especially useful for certain professional performances (for example, in dental clinics), although it would be necessary to assess whether in these cases, depending on the risk, the use of FFP2 would not be more appropriate.
With regard to its use in the general population, my opinion is that, whenever possible, it
is more appropriate for us to use masks that fit ourselves
.
The adjuster is an additional element to disinfect, that is, another possible fomite, and it can also increase the pressure on our already suffered ears.
Putting a cloth mask over a surgical one?
Overlaying a cloth mask over a surgical one is very likely to achieve a better fit.
The downside is that adding the second layer
worsens breathability
.
In addition to the possible side effects of breathing worse, it is also possible that something as simple as that we begin to sweat and, as a consequence, the mask becomes moistened and lose effectiveness.
On the other hand, when you're uncomfortable and not breathing well ... what do you do?
Try to regain your comfort.
It is likely that we end up touching the mask more than necessary to adjust it or even taking it off to breathe.
Once again, let's remember that if it rains the ideal is not to wear two cardigans, but a single raincoat that covers us well.
Putting a nylon stocking over a surgical one?
It is one of the proposals launched last week from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States.
As we mentioned in the previous point, this technique would improve the fit, but with the advantage that in this case it would not significantly worsen breathability.
The drawback, in addition to duplicating the elements to clean and disinfect, is that someone changes the sidewalk when they see us in this way thinking that we are going to rob a bank.
Make a few folds in the surgical mask and a knot, in front of the ear, on the part of the cheek?
It is likely that with this little trick we will get a better fit.
For many people it can be a good option.
The downside is that the mask "bulges" reducing its surface area and that for some people it can be small or more uncomfortable.
Make an "X" with the rubber bands?
Crossing the rubber bands on both sides of the cheeks in the shape of an X not only
does not achieve a better facial fit
, but it worsens it since it forms a pocket on each side where air escapes easily.
Although it is a trend, it is not a good idea.
Make a knot behind the ears?
It is the simplest and least expensive trick
.
A quick gesture with which great results can be obtained.
Tying a small knot behind the ears can achieve a better fit by reducing the space left on the sides.
There are also plastic or silicone clips as a "sliding clamp" to make this adjustment.
In summary: assessed individually, any of the above techniques can be a good option to improve facial adjustment.
However, since many people must wear masks daily, for comfort and practicality, the ideal is to find an option that, by itself, is capable of adjusting correctly.
BONUS.
Shaving: where there is hair there is no adjustment
The UK Executive Agency for Health and Safety has published a guide with advice on fit testing of personal protective equipment (FFP2, FFP3) and its conclusion, which coincides with a publication in the scientific journal
Nature
, is clear - Facial hair (beard or stubble beard) makes it impossible to seal the mask well on the face.
They claim that being clean-shaven when wearing these types of masks will help prevent contaminated air from leaking around the edges of the mask.
According to the criteria of The Trust Project
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