5 Dangerous Everyday Face Mask Myths Debunked

We get it. Having to wear an everyday face mask during this coronavirus pandemic may not feel like the easiest thing to do. But, wearing a face mask that covers your mouth and nose is one way that can stop the spread of COVID-19, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization and health officials globally. This recommendation has led to mask mandates when socially distancing isn’t possible in public spaces, businesses and even schools.  As a result, there has been much debate about face masks like never before.

Sadly, there is a dangerous amount of misinformation about face masks that continues to spread online. Constantly changing recommendations and mandates, along with the huge range of masks now available on the market (how do you know what the best fabric for face masks is?!), things can get super confusing. Here are some alarming myths you might encounter when selecting the best reusable face mask for you. 

Myth #1:  Masks need to only cover the mouth

For everyday face masks to be the most effective, they must cover your mouth and your nose. If you do not, you are defeating the whole purpose of wearing a mask, especially during this pandemic. The mask needs to fit snugly against your face without constricting your breathing. When worn properly, the face mask covers the bridge of the nose, and extends to below the chin with no gaps on the sides – completely covering the nose and mouth.

Myth #2:  Wearing a face mask everyday will make me sick

There has been some talk and concern that wearing a face mask can be harmful. It has been suggested that exhaled CO2 can be trapped within the mask and cause you to rebreathe in more CO2 than normal. While being exposed to high levels of carbon dioxide is harmful, the WHO has stated that the use of masks, and even prolonged use, does NOT lead to CO2 intoxication or lack of oxygen.

Myth #3:  I’m not sick so I don’t need to wear a mask

It is important to understand that you can have zero COVID-19 symptoms, and still test positive for the virus. You can spread the coronavirus, unaware that you are sick, when talking, sneezing, coughing, or shouting. This could be one of the reasons why the virus has spread so quickly.

Research shows that wearing a cloth face mask helps to decrease the spread of COVID-19 to those around you. Since it is uncertain who is infected or not, by wearing a face mask you can help to protect others. This shows that you are concerned for the health of others and for the greater good.

Myth #4:  If I wear an everyday mask, I don’t need to socially distance

Multi-layered face masks are one of the simplest and easiest ways to slow the spread of COVID-19. Along with frequent hand washing and avoiding touching your face, everyone must continue to practice physical distancing. Respiratory droplets (from your mouth and/or your nose) could occasionally make their way out into the environment if the mask does not fit well or worn properly. To protect yourself from these potentially virus-carrying droplets, 6 feet of physical distancing is recommended even if masks are being worn.

Myth #5: Masks should only be worn indoors

While air circulation is certainly better outside than inside, wearing a mask outdoors where physical distancing isn’t possible is highly recommended. Studies show that cloth face masks reduce the number of microorganisms that get released into the air. So, even in an outdoor setting, the more people who wear a mask, the fewer potential virus-carrying droplets go into an area with a reduced amount of risk that someone will be exposed to the virus.

BONUS Myth: Face masks are only for virus protection

As face masks are still a relatively new novelty here in the US, there is a belief that face masks are just for COVID-19 and nothing else. This is completely false!  Face masks provide a barrier to protect you against air pollution. Outdoor and indoor air pollution are significant triggers for those with respiratory health issues, and it’s getting worse every day with worsening climate change. They can do real damage to undeveloped lungs, exacerbate the elderly, and those with asthma or allergies.

The #1 Truth: Wear the best reusable face mask you can get

There is no risk in wearing a mask…but the reward is great and well worth it! We all want to finally get rid of this virus and we definitely know that wearing a reusable face mask can greatly reduce the spread.

One of the best reusable face masks on the market today is the Premium Everyday mask from global brand, Debrief Me®. This company has been making reusable everyday face masks for years, even before the pandemic hit (so they know what they’re doing). Debrief Me®’s Premium Everyday face mask has 3 filter layers using the highest material technology available, including water resistant, melt-blown non-woven polypropylene. Super breathable and soft to the skin, there’s no better choice out there. Check it out now for the best everyday protection.