There are various types of masks that you can use to protect yourself from germs and pollution when you are outside the home. However, not all masks can provide the same protection. So, what types of masks are good to use?
The use of masks aims to prevent exposure to germs and pollution that can cause various health problems, such as respiratory infections, flu, bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, and even cancer.
Especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic, the use of masks is one of the health protocols that must be carried out to reduce the spread of the Corona virus.
Therefore, you need to know what types of masks are effective for protecting yourself from germs and pollution that cause various diseases.
Several Types of Masks to Protect Yourself from Pollution
There are several types of masks that you can choose to protect yourself from pollution and germs, including:
1. N95 Mask
N95 mask is one type of mask that is able to filter at least 95% of dust particles and very small pollutants in the air. Not only that, this mask is also considered effective in preventing the spread of viruses and bacteria.
However, N95 masks cannot function optimally when used by children and people with thick beards or mustaches. This is because N95 masks cannot cover the face perfectly, leaving a small gap that can cause pollution to be inhaled.
In addition, N95 masks can also make it difficult for some people to breathe. Therefore, this mask is not recommended for people who have chronic respiratory problems, such as emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and heart disease.
2. KN95 Mask
The KN95 mask has almost the same ability as the N95 mask, which is that it can dispel about 95% of pollutant particles in the air. The thing that distinguishes KN95 masks from N95 is the standard. N95 is considered to have met mask standards in America, while KN95 masks are more recognized for their effectiveness in China.
The use of KN95 masks has also become a matter of debate, because test results from several mask manufacturers show a lower filtering level than the claims it provides.
However, KN95 masks are still considered to be able to provide higher protection, both from air pollution, viruses, or bacteria, than other types of masks such as cloth masks.
3. KF94 Mask
Recently, KF94 masks originating from South Korea are also increasingly being used to reduce the spread of the Corona virus. This is because the KF94 mask is considered to have a high level of protection, similar to the N95 and KN95 masks.
The KF94 mask is shaped like a boat and has a side cover that can be adjusted to the contours of the face. This shape can minimize the gap between the face and the mask, so that pollution will be filtered out more optimally.
4. Surgical mask
Surgical masks are one type of mask that many people use when they are active outside the home. One of the reasons this mask is often used is because the wearer has more freedom to breathe and does not feel congested.
However, the effectiveness of surgical masks in filtering out pollution and dust particles is somewhat smaller than other types of masks. This is because surgical masks have the primary purpose of preventing the wearer from spreading disease through droplets of saliva which may contain bacteria or viruses.
5. Cloth mask
Although they don't offer as high protection as other masks, cloth masks can still protect you from exposure to dust and various pollutant particles.
A study showed cloth masks with air valves were able to filter out air pollution as much as 80–90%. Meanwhile, ordinary cloth masks have a lower pollution filtering efficiency, which is around 39–65%.
Tips for Using Masks Correctly
To get optimal protection, you need to know how to use a mask properly. The following are tips that you can follow when wearing a mask:
- Clean your hands first with soap and running water. If not available, use hand sanitizer before putting on the mask.
- Put the mask in the right position that covers the nose, mouth, and chin.
- Make sure there are no gaps or gaps between the face and the mask.
- Avoid touching the mask during use and if touched, wash your hands immediately with soap or water hand sanitizer.
- If the mask used already feels wet or damp, replace it with a new mask immediately.
- After use, remove the mask from the strap behind the ear and make sure to wash your hands afterward.
After knowing the various types of masks to protect yourself from pollution and how to use them properly, you can determine the type of mask that best suits your condition.
However, to maintain your health and protect yourself from disease, you also need to wash your hands regularly, clean your house regularly, and stay away from pollution.
If you find it difficult to choose a mask that best suits your condition or experience certain symptoms due to frequent exposure to pollution, don't hesitate to consult a doctor for advice, examination, and treatment if necessary.