If anyone told us in 2019 that the whole world will be wearing face masks in the near future, we would have laughed and laughed… then came 2020 and the ‘new normal’. I pray everyday that we can go back to the ‘old normal’ soon, but for now we have to grin and bear it. Even if nobody can see the grin hiding behind a mask. We hate wearing masks. I’m sure you feel the same. But we have found one that allows us to breathe! Say hello to AirPop…

AirPop Facemasks

We have tried so many different face masks during this pandemic and we have built up quite a selection… washable, reusable, disposable, cotton, satin, 3 layer, 4 layer. We have masks that we are happy with (if you can call it ‘happy’), but that was when we didn’t know any better. Then we discovered AirPop and we haven’t used any other masks since!

AirPop is the world’s first “air wearables” company. Since 2015, we’ve been leveraging anthropomorphic & material science with the latest technology to build ultra-high-performance products that provide an unrivaled breathing experience for millions of users around the world.

For too many people, wearing a mask is a daily necessity to combat the detrimental effects of air pollution and the threat of dangerous pathogens – from SARS to H1N1 to the flu and now COVID-19 – increasing the need for a barrier of defense for consumers. With that AirPop was born.

Today, we all play a vital role in reducing the spread of Covid-19 through our communities which means choosing an appropriate mask requires that it both fit and filter well to reduce transmission from the airborne particles and droplets that can contain the virus when you breathe in and breathe out.

The AirPop full line of masks is certified by accredited labs to filter >99% of particles and droplets two-ways – inside and outside. They offer the same, highly-effective two-way barrier as the best medical and industrial-grade masks, but are specifically engineered for you, the consumer, to be comfortable all day, for all faces, in all environments. There’s finally an option that protects the rest of us and doesn’t divert critical N95s from health and emergency front lines.

AirPop delivers superior performance by solving 3 critical issues: fit, filtration and breathability. The revolutionary design includes a patented seal ensuring a secure fit while the 3D Air Dome allows cool airflow and prevents that “smothered” feeling. The unique combination of 4-layer filter material provides the most effective 2-way barrier against particles and droplets that you can wear with a comfort and daily wearability that’s designed for everyday use.

Now that you know all the facts and the nitty gritty, I can tell you what we think. In short, AirPop masks are the best. We received masks to try in October, and we have not touched another mask since. Truly.

Let’s start with AirPop Kids. Cara gets extremely irritated with a face mask. And she gets hot very quickly. We’ve been (mostly) homeschooling for the past three months, but on the days that Cara went to school, she didn’t complain once. The AirPop Kids mask fits snuggly on her nose while giving her enough space to breathe. They are soft and comfortable. She says it’s her favourite mask and she refuses to wear any of her others. We agree… my husband and I have been wearing the AirPop Light SE masks and I never want another mask close to my face. It fits comfortably over my nose, it doesn’t hurt my ears, and again, I can breathe! This is honestly the best mask I have ever worn. Did I mention that enough times? Haha. It’s true though. I gave my mom the AirPop Pocket masks. It seems that my husband and I have big heads and this version hurts our ears a bit. They fit my mom perfectly. She also loves the fact that they do not fog up her glasses. Huge win.

In short, AirPop masks are effective and comfortable and this brand is now a family favourite.

Stay protected with AirPop and browse the full range at www.airpophealth.com. You can also find AirPop on Takealot.com.

xoxo

How to care for your skin while wearing a mask

The constant wearing of face masks has resulted in both Cara’s and my eczema rearing its ugly head and I’ve also been starting to experience ‘maskne’. Yes, that’s a thing.

Maskne is the latest and not-so-luxurious term to enter the world of COVID-19. As the name suggests, Maskne, is acne that results from wearing a face mask or dermatologically known as acne mechanica. This type of acne is commonly triggered by sweat, friction, and pressure on the skin and causes inflammation, unpleasant red rashes and tiny clusters of pimples around the nose and mouth specifically. Cetaphil, a leader in gentle skincare products, shares some tips to help take care of your skin while wearing a mask:

Choose a soft and breathable mask

Cloth face masks can now be easily purchased from a variety of places online or home-made. It is recommended to use a mask with three layers, selecting a non-woven (or similar) fabric with strong filtering capability as the middle layer, and the accompanying inner and outer layers for comfort, structure and some additional protection. It is recommended to wash re-usable masks regularly as they are prone to collect dirt, oils, bacteria, and germs, which may exacerbate skin problems. It should also be noted that the Department of Health has discouraged the public from using the N-95 masks, as these have been reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders.

We bought satin face masks from Hello Honey and they feel great against the skin. And they are beautiful and affordable. Less irritation means less fiddling with the mask.

Include a gentle skin cleanser into your skin care routine

Select a skin cleanser like the Cetaphil^® Gentle Skin Cleanser, a mild, non-irritating, non-drying gentle skin cleanser for even the most sensitive skin. This cleanser can be used without water. So, if you have irritated or sensitive skin, gently swipe a cotton round with the cleanser over your skin.

I would suggest that you cleanse and moisturise your skin as soon as you remove the mask.

Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser is a staple in our home. We swear by Cetaphil.

Create a skin care barrier by using a moisturiser

Apply a moisturiser like the Cetaphil® Daily Hydrating Lotion after cleansing. This lightweight, oil-free moisturiser with Hyaluronic Acid provides instant hydration, maintaining the skins protective barrier, and helps to protect skin from dryness.

Don’t forget your Sun Protection Factor, even in the colder months

Although half of our face is covered by our face masks, it is still important to apply an SPF on a daily basis, as some of the skin is exposed to the harmful sun rays when going for morning walks. Opt for a non-comedogenic and oil-free option as they work to decrease excess oil that can clog pores and lead to acne.

Keep in contact with your dermatologist

If you are concerned about the health of your skin or keep experiencing skin breakouts, keep in contact with your dermatologist. Some dermatologists are offering a Telehealth solution, which is the distribution of health-related services and information via electronic information and telecommunication technologies.

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