What to look out for when choosing a silk face mask
It has been half a year since I started using silk face masks and I have tried silk face masks with various features. It took me a while but I have 2 types of face masks that I love and use on heavy rotation. I have shared the benefits of silks masks and how to wash it [link], and how wearing a silk mask helped prevent maskne [link]. Today, I’ll share the little details you should pay attention to when choosing your silk mask.
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What type of silk is best for face masks
There have been studies on the effectiveness of silk as a face mask when compared with fabrics like cotton and polyester. These studies were based on mulberry silk, the most common type of commercialized silk. You can find out more about mulberry silk and how it came about here [Link].
How to choose a silk mask
There are several aspects to look into, from adjustable ear loops and nose wires to the colour, but the most important is how it fits.
Here’s a short summary of what to look out for:
How do I determine the size of my silk face mask
always measure and select the appropriate silk face mask size according to the sizing guide provided by the retailer. Different retailers and shops may have different size guides.
Do silk face masks need nose wire or adjustable nose bridge
It is a feature that is good to have as it allows you to pinch for a better fit, similar to a surgical mask
Do silk face mask need adjustable straps or ear loops
It is useful as it allows you to tighten or loosen accordingly for a better fit.
Is an inner lining necessary for silk mask
Pure double layered unlined mulberry silk masks have better breathability but is also more flimsy. Silk masks with an inner cotton layer has slightly decreased breathability but holds its shape better when worn. That said, a double layered and cotton lined silk mask definitely does provide better protection than one without.
Do I need a filter pocket in my mask
A filter pocket would allow you to, well add a filter. Something to consider if you want the additional protection and would like your mask to be able to hold is shape.
How should a silk mask fit
It should fit you as well as, if not better, than a disposable surgical mask. Here’s how a disposable surgical mask fits on me.
You should ensure that your silk mask covers your mouth and nose entirely, without large gaps around the mask. But also avoid masks that are too tight, it should not feel like it is flattening your nose or month.
how does an unlined mulberry silk face mask look like
This is the first double layered 19 mm 100% mulberry silk mask that I bought online from Bells and birds. It is unlined, comes with a filter pocket and adjustable ear loops. I really love how this looks, with the slight curve around the eyes. It contours the face better and just looks so much more flattering.
It is still my favourite mulberry silk mask today, but there are certain things to take note of though. They do not bother me a lot but are still worth mentioning.
It does not come with moldable wire inserts for the nose bridge so it does tend to slide down my face slightly if I talk. This mask is not lined with cotton on the inside at all, so if you are breathing heavily, it tends to get ‘sucked’ inwards to the nose/mouth area. However, if you insert a filter via the filter pocket, this issue goes away!
How does a lined silk mask with nose wire look like
Here’s another double layered, 22 mm 100% mulberry silk grade 6A mask that I bought online. It has a filter pocket, mouldable nose wires, adjustable ear loops and the inner layer is lined with cotton. It is slightly less ‘curved’ under the eyes, which feels a little less aesthetically pleasing to me, compared to the silk mask from Bells and birds.
At 22mm, a higher momme count [Read about momme here] this mulberry silk mask has a brighter sheen, the inner cotton layer also gives it more structure. However the inner cotton layer also makes it slightly less breathable. It is not uncomfortable by any means though.
I really do appreciate the moldable wire inserts to pinch for a better fit around the nose and adjustable ear straps to tighten it all up.
How does a silk mask with filter pockets work
Both of the silk masks comes with filter pockets which allows you to insert carbon or PM2 filters. These filters reduce the chances of particles passing through your mask which is good for additional protection.
Why I do not use a pleated silk face mask
I am actually really petite, regular disposable face masks often are too loose on me. Pleated silks face masks are no different, they tend to shift significantly on my face and the excess fabric touches my neck, which becomes uncomfortable over the course of the day.
It is purely a personal choice, but if you are not tiny sized like I am, pleated silk face masks are worth a try. The expansion of the pleats allows for more air flow through out the mask and would be more breathable.
Are silk face masks better for you
If I had to chose between silk or cotton face mask, a silk face mask wins hands down. The benefits of a silk face mask ranges from better breathability, natural anti bacterial properties to better aesthetics.
Is silk face mask good for skin
I can vouch that it is likely the best mask out there for my skin, so much so that I have an entire post dedicated to silk masks preventing maskne.
What to look out for when choosing a silk mask?
Aesthetics and fashion aside, look into function, comfort and fit first. It is after all, for safety and health issues that we are wearing a mask. Ensure that it covers your mouth and nose entirely, without large gaps around the mask. But also avoid masks that are too tight, it should not feel like it is flattening your nose or month.
There are additional aspects to look into as well such as moldable nose wires and adjustable ear loops. I’m pretty petite, so these additional functions really help my mask to fit better.
Lastly, look into aesthetics! Whilst you may be drawn to dark fabrics, like I am, I feel that my darker navy coloured mask retains a bit more heat than other lighter coloured ones.
Before I leave you to ponder over what type of silk mask you should be buying, remember to care for your silk mask by washing it after each use! Here’s how you should clean your silk mask [Link]
