Face Mask

Face masks are safe and recommended for the public to wear to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, and from safty from dust. Face masks are made with non-woven fabric, which has been shown to have better bacteria filtration and airflow than woven cloth. The material most commonly used to make these masks is polypropylene—a type of fabric made from a “thermoplastic” polymer. Face masks can also be made of polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyethylene, or polyester— all of which are types of fabrics derived from thermoplastic polymers. Some literature as well as reports from some surgical mask manufacturers have shown that Face masks might include traces of formaldehyde and bronopol. These trace impurities of formaldehyde and bronopol have led to cases of contact dermatitis; however, these cases are not common, and have particularly been documented amongst individuals who are already susceptible to this condition either due to sensitive skin, allergies, or very long-term mask wearing.