Face masks aren’t going anywhere just yet — especially while traveling or in public places. While we’re still in the pandemic, the safety of you and those around you can be dependent on you wearing one.
The CDC continues to suggest the wearing of masks, especially those 2 years or older who aren’t vaccinated. Even those with the vaccine are asked to wear their masks as the Delta variant continues to spread.
Face coverings have become a symbol of what society has faced over the last year-and-a-half.
They’ve also become a staple for how many reflect their own personal style.
Whether you’re traveling this holiday season, spending time in restaurants or gyms, or have younger children in school, chances are you’re still looking for the best face masks that fit well, offer breathability, and look cute with whatever you’re wearing.
If you’re looking for a new line up of masks for this fall season, check out this round up of our 6 favorite face masks for the season.
1. The Best Rated Face Masks for Travel
If you have plans to travel this holiday season, it’s important to take the proper steps to minimize your risk of getting infected or spreading infection. The most crucial thing you can do is wear a mask.
According to a Health.com interview with the Allergy and Asthma Network’s allergist and immunologist Purvi Parikh, MD, “It depends on your risk factors. But if you’re at a higher risk — or just want to be as careful as possible, it’s worth investing in an N95 or KN95 mask.”
Both the KN95 and N95 face masks offer the best level of safeguarding from COVID. The key to choosing the best kind is making sure that they’ve been approved by The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
Kimberly Clark’s N95 face mask includes a “duckbill” design which offers more comfort and breathability. Reviewers on Amazon say it’s comfortable on the nose and mouth, and doesn’t fog up glasses. With it being approved by the NIOSH, this is a must for traveling.
2. The Best Face Masks for Getting Active
If there’s one thing your face mask needs to offer when you’re at the gym or on a hike, it’s breathability.
BOCO Gear’s Performance X face coverings are created specifically for active wear. With 2 layers of durable, light-weight fabric, these are the ultimate breathable face mask for every type of activity — yoga, running, weight lifting, you name it.
These masks come in a fun variety of colors. They’re also designed for little ones, with sizes like small and extra small, and cute designs your kids will love.
With colder weather on the way, be sure to check out BOCO’s cold weather gear. Mix and match a cozy beanie or running gloves with their masks to stay warm and comfortable while you workout this winter.
3. The Best Face Masks for a Classy Outing
Special occasions and big nights out don’t have to be hampered by an unsightly mask. Upgrading your simple mask to something more formal or glitzy is a must to stay safe and stylish this fall.
Now that we’re nearly 2 years into the pandemic, you can find masks of all different designs and styles to match any type of outfit. A favorite place to look is Etsy, a platform where artists can sell all types of items — including incredible home-made masks.
If you’re in need of a simple and chic look, pick up a set of satin cloth face masks. Face masks that feature lace designs create a more formal, dressy style.
You can never go wrong with rhinestones if you’re looking to make a statement with your face mask. And masks with sequins can be used for more intricate, beautiful designs that really make an impact on your overall look.
One thing to keep in mind with fashionable masks is that they’re not always going to be medical-grade. To ensure yours and the safety of others, use filters in your mask.
4. The Best Face Masks for Sensitive Skin
A common complaint with mask wearing has been their impact on sensitive skin. According to the May 2020 issue of Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, “More than one-third of frontline health care workers reported adverse skin reactions after wearing N95 masks daily for several months.”
The highest incidence of conditions included acne, facial itch and rash. N95 face masks — while very safe — cause the most skin reactions.
If you have sensitive skin, try applying diaper cream or zinc oxide to your skin before putting your mask on. After removing your mask, apply a moisturizer or calming cream to irritated areas.
An alternative to skin management is MD Acne’s Anti-Acne Face Mask. Made with anti-microbial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal silver and copper particles, it actually fights acne and irritation while you wear it! Offered in a gender-neutral design, it can be comfortably worn by anyone, making this one of the best COVID masks for sensitive skin.
5. The Best Face Masks for Kids
Kids have proven they can be real champions with how they’ve handled this pandemic — including continuing to wear masks at school, in sports, and while traveling.
Just like adults, kids also want to have some fun when picking out their masks. Patterns, designs, and overall feel are just as important to them, too.
Baggu produces adjustable masks for kids ages 3-11 in sweet, simple patterns they’ll love. Each mask is reusable, washable, and comes in a set in case they lose one. With how often masks need to be washed, (especially kiddos’), these are a steal.
Remember that kids need to have medical-grade masks, too. The New York Times recommends the 4CAir AireTrust Nano Mask for kids ages 4-10. As a KN95, this is one of the best medical face masks for kids.
Just as you’re taking the right precautions for yourself, make sure you’re doing the same for your little ones.
6. The Best Sustainable Face Masks
Considering how many face masks have ended up in landfills and the ocean over the last 2 years, choosing an eco-friendly face mask option can make a big difference in protecting the environment from face mask waste.
Our non-profit partner, Blue Verve Project, works with us to provide the durable, sustainable materials that make up our women’s bags — created using recycled ocean plastic. Blue Verve also supports our other sustainable partners, AP Bags for men and OllyDog innovative dog accessories.
Blue Verve Project has designed their own cute, comfortable, and sustainable face masks to keep you safe and comfortable this fall and beyond. Choose from the following 3 color bundles and feel good knowing your face mask purchase is helping to make a difference:
Travel Safe This Holiday Season
Wearing a face mask helps protect yourself and others, from the mountains to date night to traveling around the world.
And while the rules and regulations around travel seem to change every month, many countries are open to travel this holiday season. Now that you’ve looked at some of the best face masks for your next fall adventure, it’s time to plan a fun holiday trip!
By women for women, the Sherpani Travel Blog talks about all things travel (& all things Sherpani!). Explore topics like solo travel, destination guides, women's travel safety, personal essays, and much more! This is a space to amplify female voices and celebrate our belief that travel restores the human spirit.
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