By now, you’ve probably heard some of the myths about face masks. Not knowing the truth behind them can be worrying when you want to stay safe.
So in this post, we’re going to bust some of the most common myths around face masks. We’ll also explain how wearing face masks can keep you Covid safe and protected from other viruses and bacteria that can cause infection.
Myth one: Face masks will make it hard to breathe
If you’re worried that wearing a face mask will make it hard to breathe, then rest assured that this isn’t true. Face masks are designed to breathe through easily, whether you opt for disposable or cloth varieties.
Some people also believe that wearing a face mask means you will inhale carbon dioxide and get sick. This is not correct as carbon dioxide will simply pass through the material of your mask and will not build up inside.
If you feel dizzy or get a headache when wearing a face mask, you might be dehydrated. Remember to drink water regularly throughout the day. Men should drink around 10 cups (that’s 2.5 litres) and women should drink 8 cups (2 litres) of water a day.
Myth two: I don’t need to wear a mask if I’m not sick
Even if you don’t feel unwell, you may still be harbouring germs that can infect other people.
For example, people can spread COVID-19 even before symptoms appear. So you may feel well but still be a risk to others. See the healthdirect website to know more about how COVID-19 spreads.
Another reason to wear a face mask even if you’re not sick is to reduce the risk of catching infections from others. And depending on where you are in Australia, you may have to wear a face mask by law in public places.
Myth three: Face masks are bad for your skin
Another thing you may be wondering is, are masks bad for your skin? The answer is not if you take simple steps to reduce irritation and breakouts when wearing them.
Choosing soft cloth face masks reduces the risk of your skin getting irritated. Natural materials like cotton will be less likely to chafe against your skin. Many come with replacement filters, making them extra hygienic and less likely to cause spots.
If you opt for reusable masks, then make sure you wash them regularly with mild detergent. You should also make sure they are completely dry before wearing them.
If you prefer disposable masks, change them regularly so your skin has less contact with bacteria that can cause spots and rashes.
Whichever type of mask you use, take a break from wearing it for 15 minutes once every four hours.
Myth four: I don’t need to wear a mask if I practise physical distancing
Just because you keep your distance doesn’t mean you and others are safe from infection.
There are several things you need to do to minimise the risk of infection and physical distancing is just one of them.
You should also:
- Practise good hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water regularly, use hand sanitiser, cover up coughs and sneezes and keep your environment clean.
- Know the limits of gatherings. You should know what is and isn’t permitted when it comes to meeting other people. Each area will have its own restrictions, so make sure you know what’s allowed where you are.
- Wear a mask when required. The rules are changing all the time and vary according to where you live. But as a general rule, it’s a good idea to wear a mask when you are in public to stop germs like coronavirus, which cause illnesses from spreading around.
How does wearing face masks keep you Covid safe?
Wearing face masks can help keep you and your family safe from the virus that causes Covid-19, as well as a host of other infections.
They do this by reducing the amount of droplets containing viruses and bacteria that people breathe out and which then spread into the environment. They also protect the wearer from coming into contact with these droplets.
Face masks are most effective when they fit snugly around the mouth and nose area and when they are changed or washed frequently.
Shop face masks Australia
It’s clear that face masks for Covid provide protection against infection, so it’s reassuring to know the truth behind the myths.
Whether you prefer disposable or reuseable face masks, you’ll find what you’re looking for in our collection. We ship all over Australia, so no matter where you are, you can get protected from infections quickly.
You’ll also find other products to help keep you and your family healthy, like our Australian-made hand sanitiser, in our online shop. So stock up on all the essentials to give your family the best chance of staying healthy and free of infection.