Future once chanted “Mask Off” as we all bopped our heads in unison. The CDC, however, wants us to keep our masks on, especially when going out in public. Since the mask is here to stay (for now), it is time to get intentional about what is going near our skin.
When looking for the perfect mask, you can use the ‘light test’ to check if the material will provide decent filtration. Hadley King, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City notes that being able to see the light come through the fabric your mask is made of means it is not as safe as a thicker fabric, but warns against going too thick. Even though thicker fabric filters better, King notes, too thick fabric may make it difficult to breathe. King recommends going with cotton as it is a breathable material and relatively less irritating on the skin, protecting you against both germs and from developing maskne. For added protection, “insert a coffee filter between layers of fabric,” she adds.
While none of these cool face masks are substitutes for N95 or procedural masks (we are leaving those for the healthcare workers), they do provide some stylish relief. We recommend washing your mask frequently (get two if you can, so you can alternate), and following CDC guidelines — practicing social distancing, washing your hands, and avoiding touching your face.
We only recommend products we have independently researched, tested, and loved. If you purchase a product found through our links, Sunday Edit may earn an affiliate commission.
Clothing brand Helmstedt is upcycling deadstock fabrics from their unique SS20 collection (and donating the profit to WHO’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund).
Handmade with love, these two-layer soft cotton masks are perfect for you AND your baby (age 2+).
These playful masks are perfect for the summertime. You can sleep better at night knowing that the funds for one non-medical grade mask gets donated with every pack purchased.
Get this — a mask with A ZIPPER. Perfect for sipping on something or eating without having to take your entire mask off.
A great gift for all of the snakes in your life.
Spanish designer Celia Bernardo keeps sustainability in mind as she uses leftover fabrics to create these bold-patterned masks.
This handmade satin mask screams, “I have a killer personality underneath this mask.” Five percent of the sales from these masks will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House New York, which amid COVID-19 is delivering catered meals in to-go containers and kid-friendly care packages to each of the families that are stationed in their institution.
Romantics swoon over these one of a kind masks made from leftover vintage-inspired fabrics. A percent of proceeds will be donated to support front line workers.
You will definitely make a statement at the grocery store with this crystal-embellished chainmail mask. It also includes a white double-layered jersey face mask to be worn under.
Did you know face masks could be sexy? Pair with a ‘smize’ for contact-free flirting.
For those of you who are too lazy to go out and tie-dye your own masks, Allison New York is donating 15% of their mask proceeds to @sliceouthunger to feed front line workers and shelters.
Known for their beautiful headbands, it is no surprise these Lele Sadoughi designer face masks are a work of art. To provide healthcare workers some comfort, the brand has donated thousands of headbands with button hooks for medical masks.
Roopa Pammaraju teamed up with ProjectArt, a national nonprofit that promotes art education for youth ages 4-18 in partnership with our nation’s public libraries so that student artists could design these imaginative masks. All proceeds will be split between UNICEF India and ProjectArt, to ensure that arts education remains accessible during and after the pandemic.
Handmade in Chicago, nothing says timeless elegance like wearing a toile print. In April, the brand donated nearly 1,000 free masks and scrub caps to organizations, healthcare workers, and at-risk individuals.
It is the perfect reversible gingham mask to match your gingham picnic blanket. You’ll sleep better at night knowing that a percentage of proceeds goes to NOKIDHUGNRY.
Dyed and made in Bali, this chic mask features covered elasticized ear loops and a filter opening for replaceable filters. Rue Sticc is donating the proceeds to provide food packs for families in need in Bali’s villages.
This vibrant and cute mask design offers the perfect solution to staying strapped this summer.
There is no need to sacrifice style with this stretchy nylon mask. Buy one, give one (essential supplies) to a family in need through Save the Children.
The best bang for your buck, this beautiful Kitsch set makes sure you always have a backup on laundry day.
