Tricks to fit your mask well and make it a shield against Covid

Since 2021 began, masks have been a trending topic every week. We have received a doctorate in the matter and by now we know that FFP3 are 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.

Do we have anything left to learn? Perhaps 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 an ill-fitting surgical mask can leak up to 50% of unfiltered exhaled air.

We discuss the pros and cons of the most popular tips for improving mask fit:

Choose masks with a nose clip or twist-band?

Nose clips, usually metal, are located on the upper edge of the mask "hugging" the nose and preventing air from escaping through the mask. The top. It is advisable to avoid masks that do not have a nose clip, especially those with a vertical seam in which the adjustment to the nose does not occur and the surrounding area is loose, creating a "chimney effect".

Use 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 the device usually has rubber bands that are generally attached to the ears. There are numerous models, from those made by 3D printing to those made entirely of 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 activities (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. Regarding its use in the general population, my opinion is that, whenever possible, it is more appropriate for us to use self-adjusting masks. The adjuster is an additional element to disinfect, that is, another possible fomite, and can also increase the pressure on our already suffering ears.

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— Forrest Litke Sun May 10 12:08:06 +0000 2020

Putting a cloth mask over a surgical one?

Overlaying a cloth mask over a surgical one will most likely achieve a better fit. The drawback 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 we start to sweat can happen and, as a consequence, the mask gets wet and loses effectiveness. On the other hand, when one is uncomfortable and does not breathe well... what do you do? Try to get your comfort back. It is likely that we end up touching the mask more than necessary to adjust it or even taking it off to get air. 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.

Put a nylon stocking over a surgical one?

It is one of the proposals launched last week from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As we mentioned in the previous point, this technique would improve the fit, but with the advantage that in this case breathability would not significantly worsen. The drawback, in addition to duplicating the elements to clean and disinfect again, 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 little knot, in front of the ear, on the cheek?

It is likely that with this little trick we will achieve a better fit. For many people it can be a good option. The drawback is that the mask "bulges" reducing its surface area and for some people it may be small or more uncomfortable.

Make an "X" with the elastic bands?

Crossing the elastic bands on both sides of the cheeks in the shape of an X not only does not achieve a better facial fit, but also worsens it since it forms a bag on each side where air escapes easily. Although it is a trend, it is not a good idea.

Tie a knot behind the ears?

It's the easiest and least expensive trick. A quick gesture with which great results can be obtained. Making 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 clip" to make this adjustment.

In summary: valued individually, any of the above techniques can be a good option to improve facial fit. 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.

BONUSES. Shaving: where there's hair, there's no fit

The UK Health and Safety Executive Agency has published a guide with advice on fit testing personal protective equipment (FFP2, FFP3) and its The conclusion, which coincides with a publication in the scientific journal Nature, is clear: facial hair (beards or stubble-style beards) 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 the leakage of contaminated air around the edges of the mask.

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