How to wear your mask correctly – So are you doing it right? 

 Surgical Masks: 

1- Surgical masks have two sides, a white side and a blue side. The blue side MUST be showing on the outside.

 2- The surgical mask also has a top and a bottom. However, if wearing the mask correctly, you should feel a wire on the top. This is so you can mould the mask to the shape of your nose. 

3- Ideally, wear them for a maximum of four hours – If they become wet or dirtied in any way, replace them immediately. 

 4- Try to avoid touching the mask – you are potentially spreading germs to yourself and others.

5- They should ideally cover as far under your chin as it allows.

6- When taking of masks, perform hand hygiene before and take off from the straps (the off from the back of your ears) and then immediately dispose of mask. Then perform hand hygiene immediately afterwards. It seems much easier pulling from the front, but then you are spreading germs.

 If you have trouble breathing with a mask on?

1. Choose a mask made from breathable fabrics such as good quality 100% cotton, bamboo or performance polyester which is more breathable.

2. Use essential oils such as peppermint or lavender oil at the base of the mask to help with comfort and ease your breathing.

If it is too hot to wear a mask?

1. Choose masks that are made from cooling moisture wicking fabrics that are suitable for Australian weather – cotton is breathable but is not quick drying so can create extra heat after wearing for a long time.

3. Choose breathable fabrics that allow for better airflow.

4. If you have long hair, tie it back in a ponytail.

5. Wear the correct sized mask for your face shape. 

What if my ears hurt because of the loops?

1. Instead of the more common elastic ear loops, use a mask that has adjustable ear straps.

2. Choose a mask with soft flexible and thinner elastic straps.

 What if wearing a mask makes my glasses fog up?

1. Choose a mask that is the correct size for your face shape. A loose-fitting mask lets more of your warmed breath escape from the top of the mask, fogging up your glasses.

2. For a snug fit, try a mask with both adjustable ear loops and a bendable nose piece.

3. Place a facial tissue inside your mask to absorb some of the moisture from your warm breath and reduce the fog.

4. Try anti-fog sprays of your lenses.

What if wearing a mask is causing me to break out?

1. Avoid use of heavy foundation which can clog your pores.

2. Moisturise your skin, especially in the areas prone to irritation from the mask rubbing against your skin.

3. Choose a mask that sits away from your nose and cheeks to minimise the fabric rubbing against your face.

4. Choose a mask that has antibacterial properties such as nanosilver to minimise bacterial growth on the surface.

5. Wash your face before and after wearing a mask.