12 Best Silk Face Masks to Lower COVID-19 Risks, According to Experts
Not only is silk great for sensitive skin, but new evidence suggests it may offer better protection than cotton alone.
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A recent update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has added weight to the idea that face masks not only stop you from spewing respiratory droplets, they also protect you from inhaling virus particles in the air around you. The new guidance suggests that even non-medical grade cloth face masks can "reduce wearers’ exposure to infectious droplets through filtration." But another revelation in the update caught the eye of top health officials across the nation: The CDC is closer to understanding which fabrics are most successful at preventing the spread of COVID-19, and it seems silk may be in the running.
Why silk? The CDC says new data suggests two different fabrics may have a leg up on cotton when it comes to filtration: polypropylene — a plastic material used in many disposable surgical masks — and silk. But unlike polypropylene, silk "may help repel moist droplets and reduce fabric wetting" while also being comfortable and breathable. A study published in PLoS One in November found that silk coverings work just as well as surgical masks while being much nicer to wear. "We found that silk face coverings repelled droplets in spray tests as well as disposable single-use surgical masks," researchers shared, adding that silk masks "can be more breathable" than options like cotton, which may trap moisture and humidity.
Which kind of silk face masks should I buy?
Unlike cotton masks that you may have shopped previously, thread counts aren't relevant for silk products due to their unique construction, but you'll still want to select a silk mask that's tightly woven and makes use of multiple layers. You can learn more about the best kinds of face masks to shop for here.
And if you're confused over silk vs. satin, note that satin isn't a fabric, but a finishing weave. Silk is often woven into satin, but there are many satin fabrics that are made from polyester, so it's crucial you check the materials list before purchasing any mask (as well as consider the mask's fit). Polyester can still provide some form of protection for users and people around them, but "silky" masks aren't the same as masks made from pure silk.
How do I clean a silk face mask?
Before you replace all your face masks with silk ones, take note that CDC officials say that cloth masks need to be washed or sterilized routinely in order to be effective — and cleaning and caring for silk is much more complicated than cotton. Unlike cotton, silk is highly susceptible to damage from heat. The mixture of heat, moisture and agitation from being in hot dryers (or washing machines at high speeds) will cause the fabric to pucker up and lose its shape and texture; even hanging it to dry in direct sunlight can alter the fabric. Your mask may come with special care directions, like hand wash only instructions (in cool water!), and it's crucial that you follow them if you want to maintain the mask's structure.
For many, though, it may be worth the hassle, as silk feels super soft and luxe against the skin, is able to regulate temperatures better than cotton, and offers less friction against your face during wear. The following face masks are all made from pure silk, some of which is woven into satin, and offer comfort and breathability. All are designed in a surgical style and can be easily worn while in public, and may provide more protection against invisible infectious droplets and aerosols in the air around you.
SLIP Pure Silk Pleated Face Covering
The lining on this mask does include cotton, but the exterior is pure silk, and it's also equipped with an adjustable nose clip and ear straps. The mulberry silk outer lining comes in five different finishes.
Woven into a smooth and brilliantly shiny finish, this mask cleverly hides an extra filter in the folds of its interior lining. The brand will also donate five surgical masks to healthcare workers with every purchase, up to 60,000 donations in total.
There's a set of three beautifully adorned silk masks, all equipped with adjustable ear loops and made with multiple sheets of fabric. "I tried blowing through to take out a candle, but the candle did not put out," one shopper shared.
Equipped with a filter pocket, Cilque's mask also can be customized for a firm seal against the face as it comes equipped with ear loop adjusters, too. Cilque's product is also able to be washed in your laundry machine, according to instructions.
This reversible mask is a great option for any style, as the vibrant pop of print and color blends seamlessly into many wardrobes. There's an adjustable ear loop, too, but the best design function is that it's sturdy enough to throw into a machine for washing.
Because the pure silk finish on this mask is so delicate, you'll need to hand wash — but the print is so unique, and silk-wrapped ear loops make up for any high maintenance.
There's a built in chin guard in this bestselling Etsy mask, and two additional layers of interfacing silk material between the front and back of the mask. To ensure best fit, the designer is also selling the mask in two different sizes (including one petite enough for a child).
This brand pivoted to using ample silk prints in their clothing collection to making really beautiful masks. It includes an interior pocket for a filter, and it can actually be washed in the machine in warm water (its interior lining is finished in cotton). Plus, each pack sold results in a pack being sent to frontline workers.
Extremely lightweight, this affordable mask option is made to be hypoallergenic and is great for those experiencing maskne. "I really recommend this product if you are wearing a mask for long term and have some issues with your skin," one reviewer shares. You'll find a filter feature on its lining.
This intimates brand pivoted to create a silk-based respirator-style face mask that'll sit just above your nose and mouth. The elastic ear loops will ensure a snug (yet comfy!) fit as you go about your day.
There's a pronounced nose cover in this bestselling face mask that works well with a moldable wire to create a tight seal above your nose. It's a great option for those who wear glasses, but the silk is smooth and wonderfully comfy for any wearer.
Stefano Ricci Paisley Silk Mask Face Covering
If you're looking for a neutral option, Stefano Ricci is positioning this pure silk mask in menswear — but it's certainly polished enough for anyone to wear.
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