It’s important to wear a mask to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19. These face coverings block respiratory droplets when you sneeze or cough. However, they aren’t always the most comfortable things to wear, especially when being active. Here are some tips for making mask-wearing more pleasant.

1. Make Sure Your Mask Fits Properly

You want the covering to fit snug around your nose, chin, and ears. Loose fabric rubbing against your nose or mouth can be irritating. You also don’t want gaps in the coverage, which makes it easier for particles to enter. 

To help with a secure fit, try wearing face coverings with multiple layers. If the cloth rubbing against your face is uncomfortable, use a silicone mask bracket. Also, pay attention to the type of fabric you use. Opt for cotton masks instead of vinyl ones. Before heading out, consider testing the fit of the covering at home.

2. Wash Your Face Covering Regularly

Your face covering may irritate your skin after long periods of use. It can attract bacteria and dirt, which can soak into your skin. Plus, the rubbing of the cloth can lead to acne or skin irritation. To help keep your face healthy, wash your face daily and apply moisturizer. Another tip is to use less heavy makeup, like foundation. 

In addition, clean reusable masks and dispose of throw-away masks after each use. You can toss them in with the rest of your laundry. If there are any nose wires or delicate strings, hand clean these with laundry detergent or soap.

3. Take Measures to Prevent Glasses From Fogging Up

Wearing a covering may cause your glasses to fog up. One way to prevent this is by wearing a properly fitted face covering. When there are gaps around the side of your face, your warm breath rises, leading to the fog. 

Another trick is to use adhesive nose strips to secure your mask to your nose. Try using anti-fog spray and pre-moistened lens wipes as well.

4. Buy a Face Covering With Comfortable Ear Loops

Another way to make your covering more comfortable is to find the right size for the ear loops. You don’t want one that is too tight or too loose. If they're too tight, they can cause pain. And if they’re too loose, the mask may not be as protective. 

Consider finding face coverings with adjustable ear ties. You can also purchase an adjustable mask extender strap to create a better fit. Here are some tips to lessen ear discomfort: 

●     Use a mask that ties to the back of your head.

●     Use a barrette or clip to connect the ear loops.

●     Sew buttons on the sides of a headband or baseball cap and attach the ear loops.

5. Always Carry Extras

Having multiple face coverings on hand is essential. If you are in an office all day, you may want to swap them out during your lunch break. Also, if you talk a lot during the day, the cloth becomes moist and makes it uncomfortable and less effective. 

Another good idea is to have a few backups in your car in case you ever leave the house in a rush.

6. Choose Fun Patterned Masks

Many kids may be reluctant to wear a face covering or may not understand why it’s important. Therefore, pick up professionally designed face coverings and let them choose their favorite. Another strategy is to incorporate face coverings into playtime. 

For example, you can pretend they’re part of a superhero costume. Wearing face coverings around the house helps them acclimate to the new sensation. This is also a useful tip for parents who work remotely and aren’t used to wearing them all day.

7. Limit Your Time Outdoors in the Summer

Hot weather can make it harder to breathe through the mask. So, try to plan your outing for a cooler day. If you still want to go, leave in the early morning or late afternoon. You can also exercise at home so you don’t need to wear a face covering. 

There are many at-home workouts you can try, such as sit-ups, crunches, or riding a stationary bike. You could also join an online exercise class from home. If you do go out, make your trips quick. For example, create a shopping list before going to the grocery store to avoid lingering.

How to Make Mask Wearing More Comfortable

Wearing a face covering for an extended time can be annoying, but it is critical to your health. Finding the right fit and keeping your mask clean makes them more comfortable to wear. So, follow these tips for a more pleasant mask-wearing experience.