[imagesource: here]

We’ll go into valve masks in a second, but first:

Much has been written about face masks, which ones to use, and how they work.

This hasn’t stopped people from wearing them incorrectly or placing comfort before functionality.

The ‘chinstrap’ is a popular look, with the mask resting underneath one’s chin exposing both the nose and mouth. Then there’s the ‘exposed nose’ look, where the mask wearer covers their mouth but leaves the nose poking out.

You’ll spot people rocking a ‘chinstrap’ or an ‘exposed nose’ whenever you leave the house, or – and this really gets me – in pictures on social media.

You’re basically showcasing to your friends that you can’t follow simple instructions.

If you need a refresher, the following video goes into how to wear a mask properly, following which we will tackle the subject of valve masks:

Additionally, here’s the latest info on why you need to wear a mask, and wear it properly.

All caught up? Great, let’s move on to the valve masks mentioned in that video.

Valve masks might seem like a good idea to some, because they filter the air that you’re inhaling. But, and here’s the kicker, they don’t filter air on the way out.

Lifehacker goes into why this is a problem:

Since the main point of the mask is to contain your own droplets when you breathe out, the valve actually defeats the purpose.

Some valve masks have a switch to open or close the valve. If you have one, keep it set on closed so your exhales stay closer to you.

As Reuters pointed out earlier this month, “population-wide face mask use could push COVID-19 transmission down to controllable levels for national epidemics, and could prevent further waves of the pandemic disease”.

In simple terms, you need to wear a mask, properly, to protect others, and they need to wear a mask, properly, to protect you.

You can even wear a visor if you really want to. Just make sure that you don’t run into Seth.

We’ll round things off with an informative and educational illustration:

Image: Lifehacker

Knowledge is power, and you just levelled up.

[source:lifehacker]