Face masks have become a staple for our daily wear and activities. Once you step out of your house, you need to be wearing a face mask. That is how the pandemic changed the way we dress and interact. Some might not care much about what type or colour of face mask they are wearing, but others would much prefer to match their face mask to their outfits. What’s more, is that there are two different types of face masks available as well! Disposable face masks and washable or cloth face masks. Of course, more variety comes with washable face masks as you can choose from different colours and patterns. Disposable face masks, on the other hand, tend to be safer when combating viruses. 

But, Beauty Insider rest assured that you can still look stylish while wearing disposable face masks. If you want extra protection, layering a disposable face mask underneath a washable face mask is also highly recommended!

Types Of Face Masks

Reusable cloth masks

Fabric or fabric masks catch droplets that are emitted when the wearer sneezes, coughs or speaks. They help to prevent the transmission of viruses, are inexpensive to buy or produce, and can be washed and reused. It’s also critical for mask wearers to avoid touching their masks and, if they do, to disinfect or wash their hands afterwards.

Furthermore, if a cloth or fabric mask becomes damp or soiled, it is critical to replace it with a clean one. It is not recommended that these masks be shared.

Surgical masks

Surgical masks, often known as medical masks, are disposable and loose-fitting. They prevent germ-carrying droplets from coming into touch with the nose and mouth. They’re designed to keep you safe from sprays or splashes that could go into your nose or mouth.

These masks are also capable of filtering out big particles in the air and preventing the spread of droplets from the user. These masks are only good for one usage.

Masks with valves

Although these masks make it simpler to breathe out, the wearer is also inhaling their germs into the air around them. Masks with valves are being banned in an increasing number of medical establishments around the country. They protect the wearer well, but due to the one-way valves, they don’t provide much protection to anyone in the vicinity.

If the wearer is contagious, they may be transferring the infection to people around them, whether consciously or unwittingly. Because the primary purpose of wearing a mask is to protect others, a simpler mask with a filter would be a preferable option.

N95 masks

Because they can filter out both big and minute particles when the wearer breathes, N95 masks give a better level of protection than a surgical mask or a fabric mask. N95 masks are so named because they are meant to keep 95% of particles or liquids from coming into contact with your face. These masks, however, should not be worn by the general public and should only be used by healthcare personnel and other medical first responders. They’re also unsuitable for children or those who have facial hair.

These masks are fit evaluated by healthcare experts. They’re designed to be single-use only, similar to surgical masks, however, researchers are looking into effective cleaning methods.

KN95 masks

Although KN95s and N95s are closely similar, only the latter is permitted for use in medical settings in the United States, and the explanation is straightforward: The American standard for these close-fitting filtration devices is N95s, while the Chinese standard is KN95s. Both are capable of filtering out 95% of every minute particle.

The approval of KN95 masks as a viable alternative to N95 masks is due to a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE). However, a handful of hospitals and other KN95 users have noted some quality differences.

KN94 masks

Similar to N95 masks, KF94 masks include an adjustable bridge that may be adjusted to give a tight fit over the bridge of your nose. They also have side flaps that properly suit your face. These help to close the cracks around the face and prevent unfiltered air from getting in.

In South Korea, disposable KF94 masks are extensively used. It is worn by the general public to help in the filtering of pollutants and dust.

How To Properly Wear A Face Mask

Before handling the mask, wash your hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitiser. After that, take a mask out of the package and inspect it for any noticeable tears or holes on either side. Decide which side of the mask should be on top. The top of the mask includes a strong bending edge that is designed to conform to the curve of your nose.

Determine which side of the mask is the front after that. The colourful side of the mask should be facing away from you, while the white side should be touching your face.

Hold the mask by the ear loops and wrap a loop around each ear for a face mask with ear loops. Bring the mask up to your nose level and fasten the ties with a bow over the crown of your head if it comes with them. A face mask with bands should also be held with the nosepiece or top of the mask at fingers, allowing the headbands to dangle freely below the hands. Pull the top strap over your head so it sits over the crown of your head and brings the mask to your nose level. Pull the bottom strap over your head and around your neck to the nape of your neck.

Compress the hard edge to your nose’s contour. Take the bottom ties, one in each hand, and tie a bow at the nape of your neck if you’re wearing a face mask with ties. Pull the bottom of the mask over your mouth and chin to finish.

How To Properly Remove Face Masks

Before handling the mask, wash your hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitiser. Touching the front of the mask is not recommended since it is contaminated. Only the ear loops or ties should be touched.

Remove the mask and toss it in the garbage. Finally, use soap and water or a hand sanitiser to clean your hands.

Best Disposable Face Masks To Battle Viruses

1. #RazerforLife Surgical Mask

You might be surprised because when you hear the name Razer, you’d think of their gaming accessories and keyboards. But ever since the pandemic, Razer has adapted and began producing face masks as well! The #RazerforLife Surgical Mask is a disposable face mask that is both breathable and soft. Don’t underestimate these disposable face masks because they are also approved by the HSA!

Why we love it:

  • 30 in a box
  • Individually packed
  • breathable

Price: $27.00 for 30

Where to buy: Razer

2.  Surgiysl

Surgisyl is a local disposable face mask brand in Singapore that is super soft and comfortable. It features a comfortable ear look design and is locally made in Singapore. This is a great way to #SupportLocal during these trying times of the pandemic. So, be sure to grab a box soon! Help each other out and stay safe from the virus. Choose from their Mickey collection as well for a cute look to match your outfit! 

Why we love it:

  • Fluid resistant
  • BFE 98%
  • Elastic earloop 

Price: $18.90 for 10

Where to buy: Surgisyl

3. STYLEMASTER 3-Ply Disposable Medical Face Mask

Now wherever you go and whatever shop you walk into, you’ll definitely see disposable face masks being sold. If you drop by your nearest Watsons, you might be able to spot the STYLEMASTER 3-Ply Disposable Medical Face Mask sitting on a shelf. Its blue flower pattern is definitely a cute addition to your outfit while keeping you safe. 

Why we love it:

  • Cute pattern
  • Comfortable
  • Affordable 

Price: $9.90

Where to buy: Lazada

4. Guardian Surgical Mask 3-Ply

If you just so happen to pop over to Guardian, you can also find their Surgical Masks. Their disposable face masks are of good quality and have a BPE of up to 99%. Thus, ensuring that you are shielded from the virus at all moments in time while wearing this disposable face mask. 

Why we love it:

  • Breathable
  • Fluid resistant
  • BFE 99%

Price: $8.00

Where to buy: Guardian

5. Healthlab Surgical Mask 3-Ply

disposable face masks

Easily attainable, the Healthlab Surgical Mask 3-Ply exceeds the requirements of BFE! It has also passed the water and fire test as well as being at 99% BFE. Considering their impressive lists of certificates they are considered incredibly trustworthy. 

Why we love it:

  • 99% BFE
  • Trustworthy
  • Easy to get

Price: $12.90 for 50

Where to buy: Qoo10

6. KF94 Korea Style Face Mask

disposable face masks

Since we’ve been obsessed with all things Korean forever now, it’s no surprise that we will want to have Korean style face masks as well! The KF94 Korea Style Face Mask can help you stand out from the crowd easily. Take your pick from the three available designs. What’s more, is that it is also USA CE and FDA approved. 

Why we love it:

  • 3 colours to choose from
  • Packs of 10, 20 and 30
  • USA CE and FDA approved

Price: $5.50

Where to buy: Lazada

7. Adult Earloop Surgical Mask

disposable face masks

Yet another local favourite face mask brand, the Adult Earloop Surgical Mask is an HSA approved face mask brand. These face masks are also individually packed for hygienic purposes. Making it great for just throwing into your bag and leaving the house. 

Why we love it:

  • Individually packed
  • HSA approved
  • Local brand

Price: $16.15

Where to buy: Shopee

8. Kyla 3-Ply Disposable Medical Mask for Kids

disposable face masks

Adult face masks can be too big for kids to use. So, it is much better to get face masks suitable for kids. The Kyla 3-Ply Disposable Medical Mask for Kids is a fan-favourite. They are suitable. For kids and if you have a small face, you can most definitely use it too. 

Why we love it:

  • Suitable for kids 
  • Suitable for those with small faces
  • BFE 98%

Price: $18.00 for 50

Where to buy: Shopee

9. BYD Single-Use 3-Ply Surgical Mask

Another brand of face masks you can easily get from Guardian is the BYD Single-Use 3-Ply Surgical Mask. They offer the top protection against viruses thanks to their 98% BFE. Furthermore, these face masks offer three layers worth of protection and are hypoallergenic as well. 

Why we love it:

  • Hypoallergenic 
  • BFE 98%
  • 3 layer protection

Price: $9.00 for 50

Where to buy: Guardian